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Audio Interface – Focusrite
Been having too much fun with Ableton of late (30 day trial ends shortly, but will definitely be purchasing the software). Now looking to add an audio interface and leaning toward the Focusrite Scarlett 4i4, mainly because it has the midi ports – appears this is the best bang for my buck on amazon. Being a noob myself, any apprehensions on this piece of gear? Thanks! Nate
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3 Replies
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@nits!! So thrilled you’ve fallen deep into the Ableton abyss – you’re in good company here!
The Focusrite interfaces are an amazing bang for the buck. I use a 6i6 for my system sounds (zooms, youtube, etc.) and i’ve had it for years and it never bothers me with software updates and it always works. I regularly recommend the Scarlet interfaces for their ease of use, portability, and great value. And they sound good too!
One additional note re MIDI: if the 4i4 seems like overkill for your audio needs, you could opt for a 2i2 and add a cheap lil’ 1-channel MIDI-USB interface to your Amazon order. Not sure if that’d save money but just offering that as another option.
Can’t wait to hear what kinds of fresh beats you been cookin up!! 🎧
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I believe you’re right about saving a few bucks buying the MIDI-USB interface and a lower cost audio interface, but the thought of another component to integrate makes me a little squeamish. I went ahead and got the 4i4 with that thought in mind BUT also dreaming of doing more with it down the road. A few takeaways so far;
– The setup was surprisingly smooth. There are really good instructions for the setup and it integrated with Ableton and my old Alesis QS8 keyboard beautifully.
– It also solved a latency issue I was previously having between my laptop and the Alesis
– A bunch of software came with the purchase, including Ableton Live Lite (and with my 30 day trial ended, that’s like $100 saved right there! Helps justify my splurge on the 4i4 too 🤑). Appears there are a bunch of other plug-ins and software that came with it i haven’t yet explored, which will be fun.
– Lastly, it looks really cool
Thanks for your insights as always. Deeper into the Ableton abyss I go! Please check on me in a few days 😄
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Alesis QS8!!! What a classic! I had the the QS6 was my first midi controller (prob inspired by you) and I had it for YEARS. These days I use my Roland System-8 synth as my controller. I also often use my beloved, tiny, powerful Arturia Keystep 37. Both of those connect via USB without the need for midi, tho I still do use midi occasionally for sure.
I’m so thrilled you’re up and running with your new Focusrite. AND that it included the Lite version of Ableton to tide you over till your addiction takes hold and you pawn your pizza oven for cash to buy the full version. 😂🍕
Can’t wait to hear what you’re cookin up over there (ableton-wise and pizza-wise)!
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