Head-to-head · Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen vs Universal Audio Volt Series

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 4.4). 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 #4 in Best Audio Interfaces

Universal Audio Volt Series

4.4

$179as of Jul 1

The Universal Audio Volt 476P serves as the flagship model in Universal Audio's Volt series, offering four analog preamp inputs and two headphone outputs compared to the Volt 476's two inputs and one headphone output. Reviewers praised its studio-grade tracking capabilities with selectable UREI 1176-derived compression models and vintage tube preamp emulation. The interface supports bus-powered operation in limited configurations and includes a generous software bundle with Ableton Live Lite and Celemony Melodyne. However, some setups may require a dedicated power supply, and reviewers noted the smooth plastic knobs as potentially ergonomically suboptimal. This interface is ideal for bedroom producers and beginning recordists seeking a full-featured 24-bit/192 kHz AD/DA interface with enhanced I/O for multi-mic tracking sessions.

Strengths

— Four analog preamp inputs with UREI 1176-derived compression model presets
— Vintage toggle emulates characteristics of the Universal Audio tube 610 console preamplifier
— Supports bus-powered operation via USB-C cable in limited configurations

Watch-outs

— Requires dedicated power supply in some setups due to higher power draw
— Smooth plastic knobs may be ergonomically suboptimal for some users

$179 · 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 Volt Series

The Universal Audio Volt Series stands out with its UREI 1176-derived compression models and vintage tube preamp emulation, features not found in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen or the Audient iD4 MkII. While it's more expensive than the Behringer UMC22, it offers studio-grade tracking capabilities that the budget option lacks, and unlike the Focusrite Vocaster Two, it's designed for multi-mic tracking rather than podcasting.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen	Universal Audio Volt Series
Inputs	2 XLR, 2 instrument inputs	4
Outputs	2 balanced TRS outputs	2
Connectivity	USB-C	—
Sample Rate	up to 24-bit / 192kHz operation	24-bit/192 kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit	24-bit
Preamps	69dB of gain	—
Power	External 5V DC USB-C	Bus-powered via USB-C in limited configurations
Headphone Jack	1/4" jack	1/4" jack

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