Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 3rd Gen offers eight analog inputs: four microphone/line inputs, two high-impedance, high-headroom instrument inputs, and four additional fixed line inputs on the rear. An optical input allows for the expansion of up to eight additional channels for larger recording sessions. And with improved A-D and D-A conversion, your recordings and playback will sound clear and pronounced up to 24-bit/192kHz, vital to help you perfect your mix.

Scarlett 18i8 features four of Focusrite's best third-generation Scarlett microphone preamps: with an optional Air setting to reproduce the Air effect of its original ISA microphone preamp, giving your vocal or acoustic recordings a brighter and more open sound. There is a pad on each microphone preamp to accommodate high-level signals without clipping.

Scarlett 18i8 offers two additional line outputs compared to the previous generation, and speaker switching technology for dual monitor setups. Two independent headphone outputs allow both the engineer and the artist to monitor during recording sessions, and a pair of virtual loopback inputs allows you to capture a stereo feed from any combination of hardware input and software playback channels, making podcasting, live streaming, and sampling tasks easier.

Scarlett 18i8 is designed to withstand days on the road, and connects directly to your Mac® or PC via a USB cable. It comes with all the software tools you need to get started: two full digital audio workstations, Ableton® Live Lite™ and Pro Tools® First Focusrite Creative Pack; the Softube Time and Tone Bundle; the Focusrite Red Plug-in Suite; a selection of one of XLN Audio's four addictive keys.

As if that weren't enough, Focusrite has partnered with Splice to offer third-generation interface owners a free 3-month subscription to Splice Sounds when setting up a new Splice account. Splice Sounds offers millions of high-quality, royalty-free loops, loops, and presets, with new daily releases from your favorite producers, sound designers, and artists. Creators use Splice to make all kinds of music, including pop, Grammy-winning albums, underground mixes, and film scores.

And as with all Focusrite products, you will also benefit from their Plug-in Collective membership, which offers free software downloads and generous discounts, as well as a two-year warranty and award-winning customer support.