Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen

USB Audio Interface with Flagship Conversion

The Focusrite Scarlett 16i16 4th Gen anchors a project studio with sixteen inputs and sixteen outputs over USB Type-C. Two remote-controllable 4th Gen mic preamps feed converters lifted from the flagship RedNet range, capturing detail at up to 192 kHz / 24-bit.

What Sets the Scarlett 16i16 Apart

What makes this interface stand out is its dual Air mode circuit emulating a classic ISA 110 console preamp. Air Presence lifts high-end detail for vocals, while Air Harmonic Drive adds mid-range weight. Clip Safe prevents clipping automatically.

Inputs, Outputs, and Connectivity

Two front-panel combo inputs accept XLR microphones and 6.3 mm instruments. Six rear-panel 6.3 mm TS line inputs and four balanced line outputs handle synths and outboard gear. ADAT, S/PDIF, and 5-pin DIN MIDI expand connectivity.

• Number of Channels: 16 inputs / 16 outputs — full band tracking and complex routing
• ADAT: Yes (in/out) — adds up to eight extra channels at 96 kHz
• S/PDIF: Yes (in/out) — two-channel digital link for digital outboard gear

Conversion Quality and Preamp Performance

Converters operating at 24-bit / 192 kHz deliver 122 dB of dynamic range on the D-A side. Preamp gain reaches 69 dB with an EIN of -127 dBu for quiet operation. Two independent headphone outputs drive separate cue mixes.

• Sample Rate: up to 192 kHz / 24-bit — high-resolution capture
• Number of Preamps: 2 × 4th Gen remote-controllable mic preamps — 69 dB gain with Air modes
• Phantom Power: Yes (independent per channel) — powers condenser microphones

Build, Power, and Bundled Software

The desktop chassis measures 220 × 155 × 60 mm and weighs 1.25 kg. Bus-powered USB Type-C keeps cable clutter minimal, with an external power supply included.

• Connectivity: USB Type-C (USB 2.0 protocol) — bus-powered at 3A
• Dimensions: 220 × 155 × 60 mm — compact desktop form factor
• Weight: 1.25 kg — portable for mobile recording