Head-to-head · Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen vs Focusrite Vocaster Two

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.6 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about beginners seeking user-friendly features — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

4.6

$189.99as of Jul 1

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen offers a refreshed design with improved build quality and new features like Auto Gain and updated gain halos. However, Audio Science Review found significant issues with its DAC performance, noting that distortion decreases at higher internal volume levels in an unexpected manner. The interface's ADC input saturation at 1.7 volts and subpar headphone output also limit its appeal. While it's a solid choice for beginners seeking an entry-level interface with user-friendly features, professionals will likely find better options elsewhere.

Strengths

— Includes Auto Gain feature for beginner-friendly automatic gain adjustment
— Features updated Dynamic Gain Halos that visually indicate input levels
— Provides dedicated XLR inputs on the back panel for condenser microphones

Watch-outs

— DAC distortion performance is below expected standards according to Audio Science Review
— ADC input saturation occurs at 1.7 volts, limiting dynamic range

$189.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Vocaster Two

4.5

$89.99as of Jul 1

The Focusrite Vocaster Two is designed specifically for podcasters, offering dual XLR inputs, phone connectivity with mix-minus, and Bluetooth capabilities in a compact form factor. Reviewers noted its ease of setup and solid audio quality, though the $299 price point may be excessive for casual users. The device works well with macOS and iPad, but advanced features require the Vocaster Hub software. While it provides impressive versatility for podcast production, most users won't need all its features, making it better suited for serious podcasters who want a one-stop solution.

Strengths

— Includes two XLR inputs with phantom power support
— Built-in phone connection with mix-minus for echo reduction
— Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio input

Watch-outs

— Expensive compared to basic audio interfaces at $299
— Requires dedicated software (Vocaster Hub) for advanced features

$89.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen

Unlike the Focusrite Vocaster Two, which is tailored for podcasters, the Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen focuses on beginner-friendly features like Auto Gain and visual gain halos, making it more approachable for newcomers. However, it falls short compared to the Universal Audio Volt Series in terms of analog preamp quality and UREI 1176 compression models, and it's also outperformed by the Audient iD4 MkII in technical specs like noise floor and dynamic range.

Focusrite Vocaster Two

The Focusrite Vocaster Two is unique in its phone connectivity with mix-minus and Bluetooth capabilities, features absent in the Universal Audio Volt Series and the Audient iD4 MkII. However, it's more expensive than the Behringer UMC22 and lacks the technical performance and build quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen, making it less suitable for users needing raw audio quality or budget-conscious buyers.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen	Focusrite Vocaster Two
Inputs	2 XLR, 2 instrument inputs	2 XLR
Outputs	2 balanced TRS outputs	Stereo 3.5mm jack, Camera output
Connectivity	USB-C	USB-C, Bluetooth
Sample Rate	up to 24-bit / 192kHz operation	48kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit	24-bit
Preamps	69dB of gain	JFET
Power	External 5V DC USB-C	Bus-powered via USB-C
Headphone Jack	1/4" jack	1/4" jack

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