Hardware Features; Front Panel - Focusrite Scarlett 4i4 User Manual

HARDWARE FEATURES

Front Panel

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The Front Panel includes the input connectors for Mic, Line and Instrument signals, as well as the
input gain and monitoring controls.
1. 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.
2. GAIN 1 and GAIN 2 – adjust the preamp gain for signals at inputs 1 and 2 respectively. The gain
controls have tri-colour 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).
3. 48V – phantom power switch for mic inputs - enables 48 V phantom power at XLR contacts of
both Combo connectors.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
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