⚖️ Gear Alternatives
Best Focusrite Scarlett Solo Alternatives in 2026
The Scarlett Solo is the world's best-selling audio interface — but it has only one XLR input and limited headphone output power. Here are the best alternatives.
The original · Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
⭐ 4.7 · 28,900 reviews
$120
View product →Why look for alternatives?
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen) is the default recommendation for solo home studio recording, and for good reason — clean preamps, phantom power, USB-C connectivity, and a beginner-friendly design at ~$120. It is the best single-input interface at its price without question.
The most common reasons to look for alternatives: you need two XLR inputs for recording two sources simultaneously (the Solo only has one XLR + one instrument input), you want more headphone amplifier power for high-impedance headphones, or you prefer a different brand's preamp character.
The best alternatives
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
Best upgrade within the Scarlett family — two XLR inputs and more headroom
At ~$170 ($50 more), the 2i2 adds a second XLR/instrument input for recording two sources simultaneously. It also has higher preamp headroom — important when driving low-sensitivity dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B. If there is any chance you will record two people or add a second microphone, the 2i2 is worth the extra $50.
$170
⭐ 4.7
+$50
Shure MV7
Best no-interface alternative — USB/XLR mic that bypasses the interface entirely
If the reason you are considering an interface alternative is the complexity of the XLR signal chain, the Shure MV7 at ~$249 eliminates the interface entirely. USB connection, dynamic noise rejection, and a familiar Shure sound — all in one device. You give up flexibility (one fixed mic) but gain simplicity.
$180
⭐ 4.6
+$60
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Scarlett Solo and Scarlett 2i2?
The Solo has one XLR input and one instrument (1/4-inch) input. The 2i2 has two XLR/instrument combo inputs. The 2i2 also has higher preamp gain (56 dB vs 50 dB), which matters for low-sensitivity dynamic mics like the Shure SM7B. For a single vocalist or podcaster, the Solo is sufficient. For recording two people or adding instruments, the 2i2 is necessary.
Is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo good enough for professional recording?
Yes, for most home studio applications. The Scarlett Solo's 4th generation preamp has very low noise (EIN -131 dBu) and supports 24-bit/192 kHz recording. Professional studios use higher-end preamps, but the Scarlett Solo is transparent and quiet enough that the microphone itself is the limiting factor in most home recordings.
Can the Scarlett Solo power the Shure SM7B?
Technically yes, but at the limit of its gain range. The SM7B requires approximately 60 dB of clean gain. The Scarlett Solo provides a maximum of 50 dB — you will notice audible noise at maximum gain. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (56 dB max) performs better with the SM7B. Alternatively, an inline preamp like the Cloudlifter adds 25 dB of clean gain before the interface.