The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface is the easiest way to get your audio out of your computer and onto your recording devices for recording vocals, drumming, and other musical instruments.
The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is designed to connect to any Mac or PC desktop, laptop, or notebook computer. It has a built-in microphone preamplifier, headphone output, and 1/4-inch input on a single cable. It’s ideal for musicians, singers, actors, vocalists, producers, engineers, musicians, audio professionals, songwriters, students, teachers, and anyone who loves music.
In this article, we look at the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface, a compact and portable recording solution that offers a wide range of features and functionality in a small package. The device has been designed to be a convenient, all-in-one recording tool that will enable a novice producer or musician to get started with the art of audio production.
This post is not about how to get started with audio recording. I have no idea what microphone or audio interface you should use if you’re getting into the field. All I know is that you should use one. And I recommend the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd, Gen.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
Focusrite’s Scarlett Solo has always been a favorite among musicians and audio engineers. Its premium audio, easy-to-use interface, and excellent connectivity make it a favorite among musicians and podcasters alike. The 3rd Generation version of the Scarlett Solo brings a host of new features, improvements, and updates.
The Scarlett Solo is a 2-channel USB audio interface with a dedicated mic preamp section, headphone amplifier, line input, and a master bus output. It also includes Focusrite’s latest high-quality converters, audio processing, and a switchable Air mode. These features make it a great choice for recording both vocals and instruments.
With the new Scarlett Solo, you can record up to 24-bit/192kHz files and monitor your audio in all its glory. This means you can easily capture a wider range of frequencies and higher volumes. The converters used in the Scarlett Solo ensure that your audio is as clear and open as possible, and they’re also equipped with several features that make them ideal for recording.
You can record guitar, bass, drums, and vocals with ease using the onboard 1/4″ and XLR inputs. If you’re looking to record multiple instruments, you can use the Scarlett Solo’s line input to connect up to 6 microphones and instruments. This makes it great for capturing live performances in the studio. You can even plug your headphones into the output for private listening.
The Scarlett Solo’s balanced line outputs are ideal for connecting various headphones, including the Sennheiser HD 650 and HD 800. This means that you’ll be able to hear everything in full detail when monitoring your work.
The Scarlett Solo 3rd Generation is a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, premium 2-channel USB audio interface. Its high-quality converters and easy-to-use interface are ideal for recording and playing back your music.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Features
Professional Sound
Every sound recorded through the Scarlett Solo has been processed to deliver the highest possible sound quality, ensuring that your recordings are as good as possible.
Studio Friendly
Your favorite studio recording tools are ready and waiting for you to the plugin.
Plug and Play
No cables, no software, no hassle. Just plug your Scarlett Solo into your computer or Mac and start recording.
Great Sound
All Scarlett Solo models have been built to the exacting specifications of Focusrite’s renowned engineers to ensure that you have a high-quality studio recording experience.
Versatile
Your Scarlett Solo can do it all, whether you’re a singer-songwriter, producer, guitarist, or drummer.
High-Impedance Instrument Input
The instrument input on your Scarlett Solo allows you to record your guitar, bass, or any other high impedance instrument, without any unwanted distortion.
Halo Meter
To help you set the input level without clipping, your Scarlett Solo has a built-in gain control with a meter so you can monitor your performance.
Balanced Outputs
Able to be connected to a balanced line ensures no noise is picked up when monitoring your mix.
Compatible with the Following Headphones:
- Sennheiser HD 598
- Beyer M160
- AKG K701
- AKG K271
- Sennheiser CX 300
- Sennheiser CX 900
- Sennheiser HD 595
- Sennheiser HD 449
- Shure SRH840
- Sennheiser Momentum CX 400
- Sennheiser Momentum M2C
- Sennheiser HD 558
- Beyer T50
- Beyer T50 II
- Beyer T40
- Beyer T20
- Beyer T10
- Beyer M140
- Sennheiser HD 258
Pros
- It has a single upgraded third-generation Scarlett mic preamp: with a switchable air, setting to reproduce the air effect of Focusrite’s original ISA mic preamp, giving your vocal recordings a brighter and more Open sound.
- The high impedance, high-headroom instrument input allows you to record guitar or bass without any clipping or unwanted distortion.
- Gain Halo metering makes it easy for you to set the input level.
- The product is designed to stand up to days on the road and connects straight to your Mac or PC via USB cable, with no external power required.
- It is a travel-friendly product.
- It is a great investment for singers.
- It is simple to use.
- It is affordable.
Cons
- The product is bulky.
- It isn’t easy to clean the mic preamp.
- It is expensive.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface FAQs
Is Scarlett Solo a good interface?
A great-sounding audio interface for guitarists from a respected brand represents excellent value for money. There are many better options in this price range if you’re looking to record your guitar.
Is Focusrite solo 3rd Gen good?
Entry-level recording engineers will find the Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen very easy to use. The unit’s amazing recording quality, solid preamplifiers, and agreeable price points made it one of the best in its class.
Is the 3rd Gen Focusrite worth it?
Focusrite’s 3rd Gen mic preamp is the best Scarlett has ever created. The 24-bit/192kHz converters give your recordings clarity. Its Air mode adds an extra edge to vocals and provides unique, high-end detail.
What software comes with Focusrite Scarlett solo?
Ableton Live Lite is a software bundle that ships with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. The Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite and access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective both offer free software downloads and generous discounts. Everything you need to get up and run fast is included in Focusrite.
What is a Focusrite Scarlett solo used for?
Thousands of guitar players use the most compact interface to capture studio-quality sound each day. Simply plugging in your guitar and monitoring directly for foldback will allow you to capture your music wherever you want.
Why is Focusrite the best?
With its new upgrades and features, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a serious digital audio interface that provides impressive pro-quality sound and ease of use, making it a great choice for new and experienced recording enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts
If you have a USB audio interface, this is the ultimate one for beginners and professionals alike. The interface provides high-quality audio recording, excellent sound, and incredible portability. The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen has four analog inputs and a single analog output which will allow you to connect your microphones and instruments directly. Moreover, the interface has an internal sound card with a 24bit resolution.
This means that it will be able to capture and deliver high-quality recordings at a rate of 96kHz or higher without any conversion. Also, the interface comes with a large range of features such as preamps, A/D converters, a headphone amp, a microphone preamp, an XLR input, balanced outputs, and 24bit resolution.
Overall, this is a high-quality, versatile, and portable audio interface that you can carry anywhere. It even comes with a rugged case for protection. In addition to that, the interface is very affordable. You can get the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for only $163.
