Scarlett Solo 3rd Generation Audio Interface

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is a compact, professional-quality USB audio interface designed for musicians, vocalists, producers, podcasters, and home studios. With a high-quality Focusrite microphone preamp, a dedicated instrument input, and 24-bit/192 kHz converters, the Scarlett Solo makes it easy to record clear, detailed audio directly to your computer.

The Solo features Air Mode, which adds extra presence and brightness to vocals and acoustic instruments, while the high-impedance instrument input is ideal for recording guitar and bass. Gain Halo indicators make it easy to set the perfect recording level, and Direct Monitor provides latency-free monitoring while recording.

Its compact desktop design, USB-C connectivity, and simple controls make the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen an excellent choice for building a home recording setup or upgrading an existing studio.

Key Features

• 2-in/2-out USB audio interface
• 1 high-quality Focusrite microphone preamp
• Air Mode for enhanced vocal and instrument clarity
• Dedicated high-impedance instrument input for guitar and bass
• 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion
• Gain Halo level indicators
• Zero-latency Direct Monitoring
• 48V phantom power for compatible condenser microphones
• Two balanced ¼" TRS monitor outputs
• Front-panel headphone output
• USB-C connectivity
• Bus-powered operation
• Compact desktop design
• Compatible with Windows, macOS, and supported iPadOS devices
• Includes compatible recording software and software plugins

Specifications

General

• Type: USB Audio Interface
• Simultaneous I/O: 2 in / 2 out
• Connectivity: USB Type-C
• Protocol: USB 2.0
• Resolution: 24-bit
• Maximum Sample Rate: 192 kHz
• Power: USB bus powered
• Form Factor: Desktop

Microphone Input

• Connector: XLR
• Number of Mic Preamps: 1
• Phantom Power: 48V
• Gain Range: 56 dB
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ±0.1 dB
• Dynamic Range: 111 dB
• Input Impedance: 3 kΩ

Instrument / Line Input

• Connector: ¼" jack
• Input Modes: Instrument / Line
• Instrument Input Impedance: 1.5 MΩ
• Instrument Dynamic Range: 110 dB
• Gain Range: 56 dB

Outputs

• 2 × balanced ¼" TRS monitor outputs
• 1 × ¼" stereo headphone output
• Headphone output impedance: <1 Ω
• Direct Monitoring: Yes

Supported Sample Rates

• 44.1 kHz
• 48 kHz
• 88.2 kHz
• 96 kHz
• 176.4 kHz
• 192 kHz

Dimensions & Weight

• Dimensions: 143.5 × 43.5 × 95.8 mm
• Weight: 320 g / 0.71 lb

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen used for?
A: It is used to record microphones, vocals, guitars, bass, and other audio sources into a computer. It can also be used for music production, podcasting, voice recording, streaming, and home studio monitoring.

Q: Can I connect a microphone and guitar at the same time?
A: Yes. The Scarlett Solo has one XLR microphone input and a separate ¼" instrument/line input, allowing you to connect a microphone and guitar or bass simultaneously.

Q: Does the Scarlett Solo support condenser microphones?
A: Yes. The interface provides 48V phantom power, which can power compatible condenser microphones.

Q: Can I record guitar directly into the Scarlett Solo?
A: Yes. The dedicated high-impedance instrument input is designed for direct connection of electric guitar and bass.

Q: What sample rates does it support?
A: The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen supports sample rates from 44.1 kHz up to 192 kHz at 24-bit resolution.

Q: Does it work with Windows and Mac?
A: Yes. The Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen supports Windows and macOS computers. It connects via USB.

Q: Does it have a headphone output?
A: Yes. It features a front-panel ¼" stereo headphone output with its own level control.

Q: What is Air Mode?
A: Air Mode modifies the microphone preamp's response to provide a brighter, more open character, making it particularly useful for vocals and acoustic instruments.

Q: Can I monitor my recording without latency?
A: Yes. The Direct Monitor feature allows you to monitor the input signal with effectively zero-latency monitoring.

Q: Is the Scarlett Solo portable?
A: Yes. Its compact 320 g desktop design makes it easy to transport between a home studio, rehearsal space, or mobile recording setup.

Q: Does it require an external power supply?
A: No. The Scarlett Solo is USB bus powered, so it receives its power through its USB connection.