Focusrite Scarlett Install and Setup Guide
In this guide, you will learn how to set up a Focusrite Scarlett audio interface. We will show you how to connect it to your computer and get audio in and out of the device. Follow each of the sections below to get started.
- Focusrite Scarlett Journey
- Registration and bundled software
- Install Focusrite Control driver
- Setup and connections
- Update computer sound settings
Focusrite Scarlett Journey
Focusrite has made you an online setup guide to get started with your Scarlett interface. It walks you through the registration process and even has videos for setting up and getting started with the bundled DAW software. Click the image below to get started and enjoy using your new Scarlett! Return to this page at any time for more information and step by step instructions.
- Connect your Scarlett interface.
- Double-click the Scarlett device icon and open the link to get started.
Scarlett – Easy Start Tool // Focusrite
Registration and bundled software
Generation 3 Scarlett interfaces are bundled with Ableton Live Lite and three plug-in packages (Softube’s Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite Red Plug-In Suite, and access to the Focusrite Plug-in Collective). In order to get them, you’ll need to create an account and register your Scarlett. Their online registration guide is fast, but manual registration works, too.
- Create a Focusrite account or log in to your current account.
- Once logged in, go to the product registration page.
- Use the drop-down list to select your Scarlett interface.
- Complete the form by entering your Scarlett’s Serial Number and click Submit.
- Go to the My Software page in your account to access the bundled software.
Install Focusrite Control driver
Focusrite Control is the driver software required by most Scarlett interfaces. In order to connect the Scarlett interface to your computer, its driver software must first be installed. Once installed, launch the Focusrite Control app to configure the Scarlett’s settings and create custom monitor or headphone mixes.
Do I need Focusrite Control?
2i2 and Solo interfaces are class compliant on Mac computers. That means they will work with the default Mac drivers and only need Focusrite Control for remote control or adjusting settings.
- Go to the Focusrite Downloads page.
- Select your Brand (Focusrite), Product Range (Scarlett), and Product Type (model).
- Find and click the latest software version compatible with your operating system to download it.
- Open your computer’s Downloads folder.
- Complete the software installation:
- PC: Double-click the .exe file and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Mac: Double-click the .dmg file, and in the new window that appears, double-click the .pkg file and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your computer.
Click the image to download Focusrite Control
Setup and connections
After registration and installation, it’s time to connect the Scarlett. Scarlett interfaces have a USB-C port for connecting directly to your computer and operate on the USB 2.0 protocol for maximum compatibility. Solo and 2i2 are bus powered, which means they receive power over the USB connection instead of a power adapter. Other Scarlett devices like require a power adapter/cable and additional driver software to work correctly.
Scarlett not showing up?
Reconnect the interface by unplugging and plugging it back in. If you have not done so yet, try reconfiguring the USB connections so that Scarlett is connected directly to your computer. Sometimes USB hubs are unable to provide enough power for bus-powered devices like 2i2 or Solo, and this is especially true for hubs that do not have their own power supply (aka passive hubs). If the problem persists, try a different USB port or cable. Visit our Windows and Mac guides for more tips on resolving audio device connectivity.
MIDI ports
Scarletts with 5-pin MIDI ports can connect with MIDI devices. While some MIDI devices require their USB connections for full functionality, the Scarlett’s MIDI ports are useful if your device has MIDI ports, plus you’ll save a USB port. For example, you can connect a MIDI keyboard to play virtual instruments, or even connect an external synthesizer and play/trigger it with a MIDI track inside your DAW. Learn more about setting up MIDI keyboards and DAW controllers.
Are the MIDI ports not working?
If the MIDI connections aren’t working properly, be sure to check the routing in your DAW. If the routing is correct and it still it isn’t working try a different MIDI cable. Also be sure to check out our MIDI troubleshooting guide for more information.
Connecting with ADAT or S/PDIF
Scarlett 8i6, 18i8 & 18i20 interfaces also have ADAT & S/PDIF connections (8i6 S/PDIF only). These digital connections are used to connect and route audio with other devices. S/PDIF connections are digital (not analog RCA) and pass stereo audio, while ADAT is often used to connect additional preamps or D/A converters, like the Scarlett Octopre. Visit our Scarlett connection instructions for ADAT and S/PDIF to learn more.
Update computer audio settings
When your computer plays audio, the sound is output through a selected audio device. To select your Scarlett as a Mac or PC’s audio device, you’ll need to update the Sound settings. These settings will apply to most apps and features, but most audio software has its own audio settings, too. That just means your DAW or other related audio software needs to know what the audio device is and which input and output streams are which. To test audio playback with your new Scarlett, update the computer’s Sound settings and then play sound from a web browser, like a video from our YouTube channel.
macOS sound settings
- From the Menu Bar, click the Apple icon and select System Preferences.
- Click Sound.
- Under the Output tab, select your audio device.
Windows PC sound settings
- From your Windows taskbar, right-click the sound icon and select Playback devices.
- Select your audio interface and then click Set Default.
- Click OK to close the menu.
Continue to Focusrite Control 2
Once your Scarlett set up and connected, you’ll need to set up your routing within Focusrite Control 2.
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