4i4 hardware features

Inputs 1 & 2 – “Combo” input sockets - connect microphones, instruments (e.g., guitar), or line level signals here. Combo sockets accept both XLR and ¼” (6.35 mm) jacks. Microphones connect using XLR plugs: instruments and line level signals should be connected via ¼” (6.35 mm) jack plugs of either TS or TRS type. The preamp gain is appropriate for microphones when an XLR plug is inserted, and for higher level signals when a jack plug is inserted. Do not connect anything other than a microphone - e.g., the output of a sound module or FX unit - via an XLR plug, as the signal level will overload the preamp, resulting in distortion; , if phantom power is enabled, you may damage your equipment.

GAIN 1 and GAIN 2 – adjust the preamp gain for signals at inputs 1 and 2 respectively. The gain controls have tricolour LED ‘rings’ to confirm signal level: green indicates an input level of at least -24 dBFS (i.e., ‘signal present’), the ring turns amber at -6 dBFS to indicate the signal is close to clipping, and red at 0 dBFS (digital clipping).

48V – phantom power switch for mic inputs - enables 48 V phantom power at XLR contacts of both Combo connectors.

INST – two red LEDs; illuminate when Instrument mode is selected for Inputs 1 or 2 from Focusrite Control; gain is set to suit instrument signals. When INST is off, the ¼” jack input is configured to accept a line level signal, e.g., from a keyboard, synth module or FX unit.

AIR – two yellow LEDs indicating AIR mode selection for Inputs 1 and 2. AIR mode, enabled in Focusrite Control, modifies the frequency response of the input stage to model the classic, transformer-based Focusrite ISA microphone preamps.

PAD – two green LEDs; illuminate when PAD is selected from Focusrite Control for Inputs 1 or

2. PAD decreases the signal level going to your DAW by 10 dB; use when the input source has a particularly high level.

MONITOR – main monitor volume control, sets the level at rear panel Outputs 1 and 2 only.

Headphone level – adjusts the output level at the front panel stereo headphone output.

Headphone output - ¼” TRS output jack – connect your stereo headphones here.

USB LED – a green LED illuminates when the Scarlett is connected and recognised by your computer.

MIDI LED – illuminates when MIDI data is received at the MIDI IN port.

LINE INPUTS 3 and 4 – 2 x ¼” TRS jacks; these are balanced inputs for use with additional line level sources, e.g., from a keyboard, synth module or FX unit.

LINE OUTPUTS 1 and 2 - 2 x ¼” (6.35 mm) TRS jack sockets, electronically balanced. The level at these outputs is adjusted by the front panel MONITOR control, the maximum output level is +10 dBu. Either ¼” TRS (balanced connection) or TS (unbalanced connection) jack plugs can be used.

LINE OUTPUTS 3 and 4 - 2 x ¼” (6.35 mm) TRS jack sockets, electronically balanced. The level at these outputs may be adjusted from Focusrite Control; the maximum output level is +10 dBu. Either ¼” TRS (balanced connection) or TS (unbalanced connection) jack plugs can be used.

MIDI IN and MIDI OUT – standard 5-pin DIN sockets for connection of external MIDI equipment such as keyboards or sound modules. The 4i4 provides a convenient MIDI interface with your DAW, making a computer MIDI card unnecessary.

USB 2.0 port – Type C connector; connect to your computer with cable supplied.

K (Kensington security lock) – secure your 4i4 to a suitable structure if desired.