Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (Gen 4) The engineer's 26-in, 26-out interface
Home / Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 (Gen 4) The engineer's 26-in, 26-out interface
Product Overview
The Engineer's Production Powerhouse
The Scarlett 18i20 (Gen 4) is engineered to manage full-band sessions and complex outboard routing. Its eight ultra-low-noise preamps deliver 69dB of gain, ensuring even the most demanding microphones capture every nuance. The front panel is a dedicated master control center, featuring a built-in talkback microphone, alt speaker switching, and assignable Mute and Dim buttons for total monitor management.
Product Description
Smart Engineering Tools:
Efficiency is key in professional sessions. Auto Gain sets the perfect level across multiple channels in seconds, while Clip Safe monitors your levels up to 96,000 times a second and automatically adjusts the gain to prevent clipping. This "virtual assistant" ensures your recordings remain pristine, even during unpredictable, high-energy performances.
Signature Analog Character:
The re-engineered Air Mode provides two distinct all-analogue circuits to enhance your tracks. Use Presence to add high-end sparkle that brings vocals to the front of the mix, or engage Harmonic Drive to introduce rich, mid-range harmonics that emulate the warmth of a classic studio console. These effects are processed before the A-D conversion, ensuring authentic character.
Infinite Expandability and Software:
The 18i20 is built for growth. With dual ADAT I/O, you can expand your system to 26 simultaneous inputs using external preamps. It also includes the Hitmaker Expansion software bundle, featuring Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools Artist, and premium plugins from Antares, Softube, and XLN Audio. Remote control is effortless via the Focusrite Control 2 app for desktop and mobile.
Key Features
8 4th Gen Mic Preamps: Remote-controllable with 69dB gain and ultra-low-noise performance.
122dB Dynamic Range: Flagship converters provide stunning detail and transparency.
26-In / 26-Out I/O: Massive connectivity including dual ADAT, S/PDIF, and MIDI.
Auto Gain & Clip Safe: Intelligent gain management for up to eight channels simultaneously.
Built-in Talkback Mic: Communicate with artists directly from the interface front panel.
A/B Speaker Switching: Dedicated Alt button to toggle between two sets of monitors.
Word Clock Output: Ensures rock-solid synchronization with other digital studio hardware.
