Review · Audio gear

Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)

The default starter audio interface — under $130.

About Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)

USB audio interface for a single XLR mic and guitar. Pairs with the RØDE PodMic or any dynamic mic. The unofficial standard for first-time podcasters.

Deeper review coming. In the meantime, head over to the official site to evaluate it yourself.

Best for

  • Solo podcasters with one XLR mic
  • Voiceover artists on a budget
  • Musicians recording vocal or one guitar
  • Anyone upgrading from a USB mic

The good

  • +Clean preamps for a sub-$130 interface
  • +Bundled software (Ableton Lite, plugins) covers most starter needs
  • +Genuinely plug-and-play on Mac and Windows
  • +Air mode adds presence to dynamic mics

The not-so-good

  • Single XLR — two-person podcasts need 2i2 instead
  • USB-C only — older laptops need an adapter

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