Audio Interfaces
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2vsPreSonus AudioBox USB 96
Compare Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 side by side. See pricing, features, and which is right for your podcast.
Pricing Comparison
| Tier | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 | PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $225 | $79.99 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 | PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 |
|---|---|---|
| Inputs | 2 | 2 |
| Outputs | 2 | 2 |
| Preamps | 2 | 2 |
| Sample Rate | 192kHz | 96kHz |
| Bit Depth | 24 | 24 |
| 48V Phantom Power | ||
| Direct Monitoring | ||
| MIDI |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Pros & Cons
Pros
- Auto Gain makes setup easy for beginners
- Clip Safe catches peaks you'd otherwise miss
- Air mode brightens dull-sounding mics
Cons
- No MIDI ports
- Only one headphone output (a problem for two-person setups)
- Air mode effect is subtle, easy to miss
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Pros & Cons
Pros
- $79.99 list price undercuts most 2-input interfaces
- MIDI ports that budget interfaces at this price usually skip
- Steel chassis and bus power suit mobile recording
Cons
- USB 2.0 Type-B connector, so newer laptops need an adapter
- Tops out at 96kHz
- Preamps are functional rather than quiet enough for very low-output dynamic mics
The Verdict
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is best for:
- →First-time podcasters buying their first interface
- →Anyone who wants simple setup without fiddling
- →Laptop users who need bus power
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is best for:
- →Beginners who don't want to spend much
- →Anyone who needs MIDI ports on a budget
- →Simple mobile recording rigs
Frequently asked questions
- Which is cheaper: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or PreSonus AudioBox USB 96?
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 costs less. Both are one-time purchases: AudioBox USB 96 25th Anniversary is $79.99 against $225 for Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen.
- What is the main difference between Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and PreSonus AudioBox USB 96?
- PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 covers MIDI, which Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 does not. Nothing on the compared feature list goes the other way.