The Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 USB 2.0 Audio Interface is a professional-grade recording solution delivering 18 inputs and 8 outputs at resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz — making it an ideal centerpiece for any serious home studio or project recording setup. Four high-quality Focusrite mic preamps with up to 60 dB of gain, switchable phantom power, and Hi-Z instrument inputs on channels 1 and 2 ensure that every source — from condenser microphones to guitars — is captured with pristine clarity.
Built into a rugged unibody metal chassis and compatible with Mac, Windows, and iPad, the Scarlett 18i8 offers exceptional connectivity including ADAT Lightpipe, S/PDIF, and MIDI I/O, plus two independent headphone mixes and an integrated monitor level control. It ships with a powerful software bundle including Ableton Live Lite, the Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-In Suite, and the Softube Time and Tone Pack — delivering studio-quality tools right out of the box.
Key features
- 18 In / 8 Out Flexibility: Handle complex recording sessions with 18 inputs and 8 outputs, including 4 front-panel XLR/TRS combo mic preamps and 4 rear-panel TRS line inputs.
- Studio-Quality Resolution: Record and monitor at up to 24-bit/96 kHz for professional, high-fidelity audio capture with ultra-low latency under 1.4 ms via Scarlett MixControl DSP.
- Powerful Focusrite Preamps: Four preamps deliver up to 60 dB of clean gain with switchable phantom power, supporting condenser mics, dynamic mics, and Hi-Z instruments.
- Extensive Connectivity: 8-channel ADAT Lightpipe, stereo S/PDIF in/out, and MIDI I/O expand your routing possibilities for synths, outboard gear, and digital audio devices.
- Two Independent Headphone Mixes: Give performers their own custom monitor mix through dual headphone outputs, each independently controlled alongside the main monitor level knob.
- Comprehensive Software Bundle: Includes Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-In Suite (AAX/AU/VST), Softube Time and Tone Pack, Novation Bass Station, and Loopmasters content — a complete production toolkit.
Specifications
| Inputs / Outputs | 18 Inputs / 8 Outputs |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 24-Bit / 96 kHz |
| Microphone Preamps | 4 Focusrite Preamps (XLR/TRS Combo, up to 60 dB Gain) |
| Connection | USB 2.0 |
| Additional I/O | 8-Channel ADAT Lightpipe, Stereo S/PDIF In/Out, MIDI In/Out |
| Headphone Outputs | 2 Independent Headphone Mixes |
| Phantom Power | Switchable Phantom Power on All 4 Mic Inputs |
| Compatibility | Mac, Windows, and iPad |
| Chassis | Rugged Unibody Metal |
| Included Software | Focusrite Red 2 & Red 3 Plug-In Suite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Ableton Live Lite, Scarlett Plug-in Suite |
Frequently asked questions
How many microphones can I connect simultaneously to the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8?
You can connect up to 4 microphones simultaneously via the front-panel XLR/TRS combo inputs, each with a dedicated Focusrite preamp offering up to 60 dB of gain and switchable phantom power for condenser mics.
Is the Scarlett 18i8 compatible with iPad and what is required?
Yes, the Scarlett 18i8 is compatible with iPad; however, it requires an Apple Camera Connection Kit, which is sold separately and not included in the box.
What software is included with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8?
The Scarlett 18i8 includes Ableton Live Lite, the Scarlett Plug-in Suite, the Focusrite Red 2 and Red 3 Plug-In Suite (AAX, Audio Units, VST), the Softube Time and Tone Bundle (featuring Drawmer S73, TSAR-1R Reverb, Tube Delay, and Saturation Knob), Novation Bass Station soft synth, and Loopmasters sample content.
