Focusrite’s Clarett+ range sits above their hugely popular Scarlett line, offering improved preamps, upgraded converters, and better dynamic range for professional recording. The Clarett+ 2Pre USB-C is a 2-in/4-out interface that combines pristine audio quality with portability, making it ideal for musicians, producers, and content creators who need uncompromising sound on the go. But is it worth the step up from a Scarlett? Let’s find out.
2-in / 4-out USB-C audio interface
2 Clarett+ mic preamps with up to 57 dB gain
24-bit/192 kHz converters with improved dynamic range
“Air” mode for high-frequency clarity
ADAT input for 8 extra channels (10 inputs total)
Two independent headphone outputs
USB-C bus-powered operation
Solid metal chassis with pro design
The Clarett+ 2Pre has a sleek, professional look, with its brushed metal chassis and solid knobs. It feels rugged enough for daily use in a studio or on the road. The layout is intuitive, with dual combo inputs on the front and main controls easily accessible. At just under 1.5 kg, it’s not ultra-light, but it balances portability with sturdiness.
Out of the box, you get two XLR/TRS combo inputs with switchable mic/line/Hi-Z options, plus four balanced line outputs and dual headphone jacks with independent control. The real bonus is the ADAT input, allowing up to 8 extra channels if you expand with an external preamp – giving you flexibility to grow your setup.
This is where the Clarett+ range earns its place above the Scarlett line. The upgraded converters deliver exceptional clarity, low noise, and excellent dynamic range, rivaling more expensive interfaces. The mic preamps are clean and transparent, with the optional “Air” mode adding a subtle high-end lift inspired by Focusrite’s classic ISA consoles. Whether recording vocals, guitars, or acoustic instruments, the Clarett+ 2Pre provides pro-level sound capture.
With USB-C bus power, the Clarett+ 2Pre delivers strong low-latency performance, making it suitable for real-time monitoring and virtual instrument use. Direct monitoring options are included for zero-latency tracking. The two headphone outputs are a nice addition, especially for collaborations or teaching.
The all-metal build makes it durable enough for gigging musicians or mobile setups. While slightly bulkier than compact entry-level interfaces, it’s still portable and practical. Bus-powered operation means you don’t need to carry an extra power supply – perfect for laptops and mobile rigs.
At around £350-£400, the Clarett+ 2Pre is priced firmly in the mid-to-pro range. It’s more expensive than Scarlett interfaces, but the improvements in preamps, converters, and expansion options make it a worthwhile upgrade for serious creators who need top-notch sound quality and room to grow.
The Clarett+ has higher-quality preamps and converters, lower noise, greater dynamic range, and ADAT expansion. It’s aimed at professionals rather than beginners.
No – it’s fully bus-powered via USB-C.
Not on its own. It has two inputs, but with ADAT expansion you can record up to 10 simultaneous channels.
If you want a compact, professional-grade audio interface with premium preamps and superb sound quality, the Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre is a fantastic choice. It costs more than entry-level options, but its performance and expandability make it an excellent long-term investment for musicians and producers who take their recordings seriously.
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