Focusrite Scarlett Studio User Manual

Focusrite Scarlett Studio User Manual

Studio package

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User Guide

www.focusrite.com
FA0807-01

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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Focusrite Scarlett Studio

  • Page 1: User Guide

    User Guide www.focusrite.com FA0807-01...
  • Page 2: Important Safety Instructions

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1. Read these instructions. 2. Keep these instructions. 3. Heed all warnings. 4. Follow all instructions. 5. Do not use this apparatus with water. 6. Clean only with dry cloth. 7. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 8. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus. 9. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. 10. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
  • Page 3: Environmental Declaration

    ENVIRONMENTAL DECLARATION Compliance Information Statement: Declaration of Compliance procedure Product Identification: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Responsible party: American Music and Sound Address: 5304 Derry Avenue #C Agoura Hills, CA 91301 Telephone: 800-994-4984 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. For USA To the User: 1. Do not modify this unit! This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved by Novation may void your authority,...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    TABLE OF CONTENTS IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 OVERVIEW .
  • Page 5: Overview

    OVERVIEW Introduction Thank you for purchasing the Scarlett Studio package, part of the range of Focusrite professional computer audio interfaces incorporating high quality, Focusrite analogue pre-amplifiers. You now have a simple, compact and complete solution for recording with a microphone or directly from instruments, by routing high quality audio to and from your computer. This User Guide provides a detailed explanation of the components to help you achieve a thorough understanding of the Scarlett 2i2’s operational features. We recommend that whether you are new to computer recording or a more experienced user, you should take the time to read through the user guide so that you are fully aware of all the possibilities that the Scarlett Studio components and accompanying software has to offer. If the main User Guide sections do not provide the information you need, be sure to consult http://www.focusrite.com/answerbase, which contains a comprehensive collection of answers to common technical support queries. Features The Scarlett Studio package comprises a Scarlett 2i2 computer audio interface, a Scarlett Studio CM25 studio quality condenser microphone, a pair of Scarlett Studio HP60 reference quality headphones and all the necessary software – including Steinberg’s Cubase LE - to get you started with recording great audio on your computer as quickly as possible. The Scarlett 2i2 hardware interface is the key component in the Scarlett Studio system; this provides the means of connecting the CM25 (or other) microphone, musical instruments or line level audio signals to a computer running Mac OS or Windows. The signals applied at the 2i2’s physical inputs can be routed to Cubase LE or other recording software via a USB connection. Similarly, the recording software’s monitor or recorded output will appear at the 2i2’s physical outputs. (Note - computer audio recording software is frequently referred to as a “Digital Audio Workstation”, or “DAW”, and the term “DAW” is used throughout this user guide.) Audio sources – mics, instruments, etc. - connected to the 2i2’s physical inputs can be recorded in the DAW and then routed from your DAW to the physical outputs. The 2i2’s various physical outputs...
  • Page 6: Box Contents

    Box Contents You should find that your Scarlett Studio package comprises: • Scarlett 2i2 computer audio interface • Scarlett Studio CM25 condenser microphone • Scarlett Studio HP60 headphones • Resources DVD containing: - Cubase LE 6 recording software - USB Drivers for Mac and Windows • Red XLR microphone cable (3 m) • USB cable • “Getting Started Guide” • “Download Your Software” online registration card System requirements Mac OS Apple Macintosh with a high-speed USB 2.0-compliant USB port OS: Mac OS X 10.7 or later DVD drive Windows Windows compatible computer with a USB 2.0-compliant USB port OS: Windows 7 (all versions) or Windows 8 (excluding Windows 8 RT) DVD drive...
  • Page 7: Getting Started

    Windows Installation 1. Insert your installer disk into your computer’s DVD-ROM drive. 2. A window should open displaying the contents of the disk. If this window does not appear automatically, you can manually navigate to the disk using Windows Explorer. 3. Identify the file ‘‘Focusrite USB 2 Driver.exe’; double-click its icon to begin the installation. 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. 5. When the installation is complete, restart your computer.
  • Page 8: Connecting Your Scarlett 2I2

    Audio Setup in Cubase LE (or your other DAW) The Scarlett 2i2 is compatible with any Windows-based DAW that supports ASIO or WDM and any Mac-based DAW that uses Core Audio. After installing the drivers and connecting the hardware, you can start using the Scarlett 2i2 with the DAW of your choice. Steinberg Cubase LE is included on the Scarlett 2i2 Resources DVD to allow you to get started if you do not already have a DAW application installed on your computer. To install Cubase LE, locate the file on the DVD, double- Start Center click it and follow the on-screen instructions. Operating instructions for Cubase LE are beyond the scope of this User Guide, but the application includes a full set of Help files. Please note – Cubase LE may not automatically select the Scarlett 2i2 as its default I/O device. In Device Setup* Devices menu > this case, you must manually select the driver on Cubase’s page ( Device Setup > VST Audio System ). Select driver for Mac or Scarlett 2i2 USB Focusrite USB driver for Windows. Please refer to your DAW’s documentation (or Help files) if you are unsure where to select the ASIO/Core Audio driver. The following example shows the correct configuration Device Setup in the Cubase LE pane (Mac version shown). *Typical name. Terminology may differ slightly between DAWs.
  • Page 9 Once the Scarlett 2i2 driver is selected, Inputs 1 & 2 and Outputs 1 & 2 will appear in your DAW’s Audio I/O preferences. Depending on your DAW, you may need to enable certain inputs or outputs before use. The example below shows Inputs 1 & 2 and Outputs 1 & 2 enabled in Cubase LE Device Setup. *Typical name. Terminology may differ slightly between DAWs.
  • Page 10: Example Of Usage

    The front panel input sockets are Neutrik Combo® type, which accept either an XLR male connector (you will find one on the end of the microphone cable supplied) or a ¼” (6.35 mm) jack plug. Note the Scarlett 2i2 has no “Mic/line” switch – the Focusrite preamplifier stage is automatically configured for a microphone when you plug an XLR into the input, and for a line or instrument when you connect a jack plug. Set the LINE/INST switch next to the socket to INST if you are connecting a musical instrument (a guitar in the example) via an ordinary 2-pole (TS) guitar jack, or to LINE if you are connecting a line level source such as the balanced output of a stage piano via a 3-pole (TRS) jack.
  • Page 11: Recording With A Microphone

    Recording with a microphone The Scarlett Studio CM25 microphone supplied with Scarlett Studio is a studio quality condenser mic which is ideal for recording vocals and most acoustic instruments. Connect the CM25 to one of the Scarlett 2i2’s two front panel inputs with the cable supplied. Note that the cable has a male and a female connector; the female end connects to the microphone and the male end into the Scarlett 2i2. Condenser microphones (also sometimes referred to as “capacitor” microphones) require a source of DC power to operate. This is almost always supplied by “phantom” powering from the mic pre- amp to which the mic is connected (early and special-purpose condenser mics might have a separate power supply). For the CM25 (or any other condenser mic) to work with the Scarlett 2i2, press the 48V button on the front panel (see front panel diagram on page 14, item [3]). We recommend that you follow the following sequence: • Turn the input gain [2] to minimum • Connect the microphone • Press the 48V button • Increase the input gain to the required level Enabling the Scarlett 2i2’s phantom power applies 48 V DC to the XLR portion of BOTH inputs. If you are only using a single microphone, do not plug anything else (like the balanced output of another item of equipment) into the other input with an XLR connector. Applying 48 V to the output circuitry of other equipment may permanently damage it. The other input is perfectly safe to use with a TRS jack plug. Microphone Dos and Don’ts A guide to microphone technique is beyond the scope of this User Guide (though many excellent books on the subject are available), but if you are new to recording with a studio quality microphone, you need to observe a few golden rules.
  • Page 12: Using Direct Monitoring

    DON’T ignore the room acoustics. You probably won’t have the luxury of a recording studio’s perfect acoustics. Be aware of how reverberant the room is. Reverberation is neither good nor bad, but frequently inappropriate! Some instruments will benefit from being recorded in a reverberant space, others won’t. A “dead” acoustic is generally better than a “live” one, because reverberation can be added electronically in the recording process, but room reverberation on the recording can’t be removed. DON’T blow into a microphone to test it! Lightly rub or scratch the grille instead. DO experiment with microphone placement. Remember you will not only be recording the vocal or instrument, but the effect of the microphone position relative to the voice or instrument as well, and this will be affected by the room acoustics. Moving the mic around, and trying recordings at different distances and angles to the source will produce different sounding results, some of which will be better than others.
  • Page 13: Connecting Scarlett 2I2 To Headphones

    Connecting Scarlett 2i2 to headphones The Scarlett Studio package includes a pair of high quality headphones, the Scarlett Studio HP60. They are lightweight and durable, and should prove comfortable to wear for extended periods. The headband is adjustable. The HP60 headphones have a low noise, oxygen-free copper cable, fitted with a ¼” (6.35 mm) 3-pole (TRS) jack plug. This should be connected to the socket at the right hand side of the Scarlett 2i2 front panel (indicated by a symbol). The Scarlett 2i2’s headphone output is, of course, suitable for use with other models of headphones. The volume in the headphones can be adjusted by the rotary control immediately above the socket. Please be aware that headphones are capable of generating very high sound pressure levels at the ear; prolonged exposure to high sound levels may impair your hearing. Never turn headphones volume up any further than necessary. Connecting Scarlett 2i2 to loudspeakers The 1/4” jack outputs on the rear panel can be used to connect monitoring speakers. Self-powered monitors (i.e., typical computer speakers) incorporate internal amplifiers, and may be connected directly. Larger, passive loudspeakers will require a separate stereo amplifier; in this case, the rear panel outputs should be connected to the amplifier’s inputs.
  • Page 14: Hardware Features

    The line output connectors are 3-pole (TRS) ¼” (6.35 mm) jack sockets, and are electronically balanced. Typical consumer (hi-fi) amplifiers and small powered monitors will have unbalanced inputs, either on phono (RCA) sockets, or via a 3.5 mm 3-pole jack plug intended for direct connection to a computer. In either case, use a suitable connecting cable with jack plugs at one end. Professional power amplifiers will generally have balanced inputs. HARDWARE FEATURES Front Panel 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 – Neutrik Combo input sockets - connect microphones, instruments (e.g., ®...
  • Page 15: Back Panel

    Back Panel 9. Kensington security lock – secure your Scarlett 2i2 to a suitable structure if desired. 10. USB 2 .0 port – Type B connector; connect to your computer with cable supplied. 11. Line outputs - 2 x ¼” (6.35 mm) TRS jack sockets; +4 dBu output level. Either ¼” TRS (balanced) or TS (unbalanced) jack plugs can be used.
  • Page 16: Specifications

    SPECIFICATIONS Performance Specifications 105 dB ‘A-weighted’ (all inputs). Converter A-D dynamic range chipset A-D dynamic range 114 dB Range 104 dB ‘A-weighted’ (all outputs). D-A dynamic range Converter chipset D-A dynamic range 114 dB Supported sample rates 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz and 96 kHz Microphone Inputs 1 & 2 Frequency response 20 Hz - 20 kHz +/-0.1 dB Gain range + 10 dB to + 55 dB 0.002% (minimum gain, -1 dBFS input with THD+N 20 Hz - 22 kHz filter) 120 dB: measured at 55 dB of gain with Noise EIN 150 ohm termination (20 Hz - 22 kHz filter) Input impedance 2 kohm Line Inputs 1 & 2 Frequency response 20 Hz - 20 kHz +/-0.1 dB Gain range -10 dB to +35 dB 0.002% (measured with -1 dBFS input and THD+N 22 Hz - 22 kHz filter) Noise -90 dBu (22 Hz - 22 kHz filter) Input impedance...
  • Page 17: Physical And Electrical Characteristics

    Physical and Electrical Characteristics Analogue Inputs 1 & 2 Neutrik XLR Combo: Mic/Line/Inst (Inputs 1-2) Connectors on front panel Mic/Line switching Automatic Line/Instrument switching 2 x front panel switches Shared +48 V phantom power switch for inputs Phantom power 1 & 2 Analogue Outputs 2 x balanced ¼” TRS jacks on rear panel (Main Main outputs outputs) Stereo headphone output ¼” TRS jack on front panel Main output level control On front panel Headphones level control Other I/O 1 x USB 2.0 Type B connector Front Panel Indicators USB power & connected Gain controls Colour-coded LED rings Weight and Dimensions W x H x D 175 mm x 45 mm x 100 mm Weight...
  • Page 18: Scarlett Studio Cm25 Microphone Specifications

    Scarlett Studio CM25 Microphone Specifications Capsule Type 20 mm dia. condenser element Response type Cardioid Mounting Standard 5/8” female; 3/8” adaptor supplied Performance Frequency response 30 Hz - 20 kHz Sensitivity -36 dB ±2 dB (0 dB = 1 V/Pa) Self noise 18 dBA Maximum SPL 130 dB (1 kHz) S/N ratio 76 dB (A-weighted) Impedance 150 ohms Power Via 48 V phantom supply Scarlett HP60 Headphones Specifications Type Closed Driver diameter 53 mm Impedance 60 ohms Sensitivity SPL 94 dB ±3 dB Frequency response 10 Hz - 30 kHz Max. power rating...
  • Page 19: Troubleshooting

    TROUBLESHOOTING For all troubleshooting queries, please visit the Focusrite Answerbase at www.focusrite.com/answerbase where you will find articles covering numerous troubleshooting examples. COPYRIGHT AND LEGAL NOTICES Focusrite is a registered trade mark and Scarlett 2i2 and Scarlett Studio are trade marks of Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited. All other trade marks and trade names are the property of their respective owners. 2012 © Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited. All rights reserved.

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Scarlett 2i2

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