Focusrite Clarett 8Pre USB 18-In/20-Out Audio Interface, Red (AMS-CLARETT-8PRE-USB)

I have had this for a few months now. I replaced an old first generation Scarlett 18i8. I think the sound quality is a little better, but not a major change (running through Adam A7X monitors). I find that the Focusrite control software that came with it is easier to use than the software that accompanied the Scarlett. It is easy to create different mixes for headphones vs monitors. Connectivity is good. There are two xlr inputs on the front and the rest are on the back. Phantom power can be administered to inputs 1-4 and/or 5-8, but you cannot independently provide phantom power to one single input alone. Only groups of 4. I like the level meter. It's easier to ascertain my input level on this vs the old Scarlett. the "Air" pre-amp setting has too much treble for my taste, so I don't find myself using it. I'm not honestly sure why people make such a big deal about it (this is using AKG c214 and c414). I do notice that there is some crackling when I am adjusting input gain knobs and the monitor volume knob. When I am not touching the knobs there are no noises. Lastly, the unit gives off a lot of heat compared to my previous interface. All in all, I am happy with the purchase. The connectivity is great, the sound is great, and it is super easy to set up and use within minutes.

There are several thing I like about this unit and so far I've had very few problems using it with the Mac Mini running Catalina, primarily. I like that fact that it fits nicely in a 1U rack mount, does not need a #$@@ing wall wart, and provides me lots of operational versatility with a relatively future-proof digital interface. The preamps are good quality. I don't notice any noise, but I haven't really stress tested them. 1 - the new Focusrite software is IMO, inferior to their older software that came with my first gen 6i6, which was more intuitive. Why they discontinued that I don't know (it was 32 bit, so can't use it). You can get it to work, but this smells of new for new's sake 2 - The USB connection sometimes drops out when the interface is idle. I have to power cycle the unit to bring it back. I'm not sure who's fault that is, but it's an annoyance. 3 - the preamps are good, but not quite enough for a Shure SM7B, which needs some serious gain. I gave up and bought a Cloudlifter so I just don't have to deal with it. Even with the CL, the knobs are well past half. It you're recording music with this mic, it might not be an issue, since singing is generally louder than spoken word. For other mics, the preamps are sufficient.

As Expected! focus right!