Head-to-head · Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen vs Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

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 clear margin (4.6 vs 4.1). 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 #6 in Best Audio Interfaces

Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

4.1

$1,099as of Jul 1

The Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 represents a significant refresh to the Apollo line, maintaining Thunderbolt connectivity and enhancing audio performance with improved dynamic range and lower THD. Reviewers praised its industry-leading Unison preamps, pristine conversion quality, and real-time UAD processing capabilities. The integration of Sonarworks SoundID correction adds value for monitoring accuracy. However, the premium pricing and lack of included Thunderbolt cable were noted as drawbacks. This interface appeals to professional musicians and producers seeking studio-grade performance in a desktop-friendly form factor.

Strengths

— Industry-leading Unison preamps with analog emulation
— Pristine AD/DA conversion with wide dynamic range
— Real-time UAD plugin processing for zero-latency tracking

Watch-outs

— Premium price point
— No Thunderbolt cable included in the box

$1,099 · 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.

Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

The Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 excels in industry-leading Unison preamps and real-time UAD processing, features not available in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen or Audient iD4 MkII. While it's more expensive than the Behringer UMC22, it provides pristine AD/DA conversion and professional-grade performance that the budget option cannot match, and unlike the Focusrite Vocaster Two, it's built for professional studios rather than podcasting.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen	Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2
Inputs	2 XLR, 2 instrument inputs	4x XLR-1/4" Combo
Outputs	2 balanced TRS outputs	2x Balanced 1/4" TRS
Connectivity	USB-C	Thunderbolt 3
Sample Rate	up to 24-bit / 192kHz operation	24-bit / 192 kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit	24-bit
Preamps	69dB of gain	4x Unison-enabled
Power	External 5V DC USB-C	—
Headphone Jack	1/4" jack	—

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