Comparison Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre vs Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen

The number of input and output channels that the audio interface is equipped with. See below for more details on each type.

— Input channels. Input (in) channels on audio interfaces designate the number of different audio signals a device can accept for recording overnight. Their number plays a decisive role in multi-channel sound recording, connecting several instruments or vocals at the same time. When choosing an audio interface, consider not only the number of input channels, but also the types of connectors (see “Inputs”).

— Output channels. Output channels output (out) is the number of audio signals that can be sent to other devices or equipment for playback. The outputs of the audio interface can be used to connect to amplifiers, monitors, speaker systems, headphones, etc. A large number of output channels will come in handy when creating sound mixes, multi-channel recording or multitasking in a studio environment. For simpler tasks, it is enough to have from 2 to 4 output channels. When choosing an audio interface, consider not only the number of output channels, but also the types of connectors (see “Outputs”).

The audio frequency range supported by the device. Most often we are talking about the range of frequencies that a device can produce in an analog audio output signal.

In general, the wider the frequency range, the fuller the sound, the lower the likelihood that the audio interface will “cut off” the upper or lower frequencies. However, it must be taken into account that the human ear is capable of hearing sounds at frequencies from 16 to 22,000 Hz, and the upper limit decreases with age. So from a practical point of view, it makes no sense to provide a wider range in audio technology. And the impressive numbers found in high-end devices are rather a “side effect” of advanced electronic circuits and are given in the specifications mainly for advertising purposes. Also remember that the overall sound quality is affected by many other factors besides frequency range.

— Total audio inputs Jack / XLR. The total number of analog audio inputs such as Jack (6.35 mm) and/or XLR (this interface can be combined with a “jack”). Note that such connectors can play the role of both a line input and a microphone or instrument input. For more details, see the relevant paragraphs.

— mini-Jack. The standard 3.5 mm mini-Jack is usually used in audio interfaces as an analog (line) input for two stereo channels, as well as as a microphone audio input (see the corresponding paragraphs).

The type of line input provided in the device. Uses the line input to feed audio from an external source to the audio interface.

The following types of connectors can be used for line input:

— mini-Jack (3.5 mm). A socket for a standard mini-Jack plug (3.5 mm). The connector serves as an audio input for two stereo channels. It is designed primarily for portable electronics such as smartphones, pocket players, etc. In stationary devices, Jack (6.35 mm), XLR and RCA are more popular.

— Jack (6.35 mm). A common audio connector for transmitting an analog signal. In design, this type of socket is as similar as possible to a mini-Jack (3.5 mm), but differs in size. Jack connector (6.5 mm) provides tight contact and is less susceptible to interference. It also supports a balanced connection - high-quality transmission of audio signals over fairly long wires with effective protection against interference.

- XLR. The XLR standard is considered professional - not only because of the high quality of signal transmission, but also because of its fairly large size and the presence of locks for securely securing the plugs. However, only one channel of audio can be transmitted over one cable, so XLR outputs are usually installed in pairs - based on stereo sound. Also note that these connectors can be combined with Jack sockets (6.35 mm). They als...o allow you to implement a connection in a balanced format with a high degree of noise immunity and the use of fairly long wires without affecting the frequency of the analog signal.

- RCA. Connector for coaxial cable with tulip type plug. The standard RCA input consists of two jacks - for stereo sound, left and right channel. One analog RCA connector can only transmit one channel of audio, so the number of such connectors corresponds to the number of channels supported by the device.

Input for digital audio signal transmitted via TOSLINK fiber optic cable. The optical interface has the same capabilities as the coaxial input (see the corresponding paragraph) - in particular, it allows you to transmit multi-channel audio. The key difference and main advantage of this connection is its complete insensitivity to electromagnetic interference. On the other hand, fiber optic cable is quite fragile and sensitive to damage - it must be protected from strong pressure and kinks.

Audio interfaces designed for recording podcasts and conducting live broadcasts on the Internet (streams). They are supposed to connect streamer and podcasting equipment such as microphones and headphones, and the functions in such models include fine sound adjustments, adjusting the balance between different audio sources, etc.

The main function of the PAD (Passive Attenuation Device) attenuator is to reduce the excess level of the input signal. When it is too high, there is a risk of overloading or even damaging your audio equipment. The PAD can be useful when connecting guitars with active pickups or, for example, when using microphones with high audio output levels.

The software included with your audio interface may vary depending on the make and model. The vast majority of it is represented by drivers, utilities for managing the device, software for recording and editing sound, virtual instruments or effects, and all kinds of plugins. It is advisable to clarify separately which specific software components are included in the audio interface package.

Power supply methods provided in the device. There are models that combine combined power supply methods - for example, from the mains and USB. For more details, see individual help items.

— From the network. Powered by a regular household power supply of 230 V. Stationary audio equipment uses only this method of power supply, but in compact devices it can be combined with a USB connection, battery power, or the presence of a battery.

- USB. Powered by the same USB connector that connects the device to external equipment. This power supply method allows you to do without unnecessary wires and work independently of sockets, but its power is low, so this option is used only in compact devices. Some models combine USB power with a built-in battery or supplement mains power, providing a backup option in case there are no outlets.

— Battery. The presence of a built-in battery allows the device to operate independently of any external energy sources, however, the period of such operation is limited - at some point you will still have to take a break to charge the battery. In its pure form, this type of power supply is extremely rare - much more often the rechargeable battery is provided as a “backup option” that supplements power from the network or USB (see the corresponding paragraphs).

— Batteries....Powered by replaceable elements of a standard size - for example, “finger-type” AA. Note that among such elements there are both disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries. This gives the user a choice: regularly purchase fresh elements or spend money once on batteries and a “charger” for them. However, in any case, power from batteries is associated with additional costs - such power supplies are usually not included in the kit and have to be purchased separately. This option is found mainly among portable models.