Connecting a microphone to your Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a straightforward process that involves physical connection, understanding microphone types, and activating phantom power when necessary.
The Scarlett 2i2 is a popular audio interface known for its simplicity and quality, featuring combination input jacks that accept both XLR (for microphones) and ¼-inch (for instruments) cables.
Connecting Your Microphone to the Scarlett 2i2
Follow these steps to successfully connect your microphone and prepare for recording:
Step 1: Choose the Right Cable
For microphone connections, you will primarily use an XLR cable. This cable has a 3-pin connector on both ends, designed for balanced audio signals, which reduces noise over longer cable runs.
Step 2: Plug in Your Microphone
Locate one of the two combination input jacks on the front panel of your Scarlett 2i2. These inputs are versatile and accept XLR connectors directly.
- Plug one end of your XLR cable into the XLR output of your microphone.
- Plug the other end of the XLR cable into one of the XLR inputs on your Scarlett 2i2.
Step 3: Understand Phantom Power (for Condenser Mics)
The type of microphone you are using determines whether you need to activate phantom power.
- Dynamic Microphones: These microphones (e.g., Shure SM58, SM57) do not require phantom power. They operate passively.
- Condenser Microphones: These microphones (e.g., Rode NT1, Audio-Technica AT2020) require phantom power to operate. Phantom power (typically +48V) supplies the necessary voltage to the microphone's internal electronics.
As highlighted in the video "Connecting Microphones to your Scarlett 2i2", "...for Scarlett 2i2 phantom power is shared across both channels." This is a crucial point: when you activate phantom power on your 2i2, it provides power to both input channels simultaneously, regardless of which one your condenser microphone is plugged into.
To activate phantom power:
- Locate the "48V" button on the front panel of your Scarlett 2i2.
- Press this button if you are using a condenser microphone. An LED light will illuminate, indicating that phantom power is active.
- Do not activate 48V phantom power if you are only using dynamic microphones, as it is unnecessary and could potentially cause issues with some vintage ribbon microphones (though most modern dynamic and ribbon mics are safe).
Here's a quick summary of microphone types and phantom power:
| Microphone Type | Phantom Power (48V) Required? | Shared on Scarlett 2i2? |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic | No | N/A |
| Condenser | Yes | Yes, across both channels |
Step 4: Set Your Input Gain
Once your microphone is connected and phantom power (if needed) is activated, you'll need to set the input gain. This controls how loud the signal from your microphone is before it reaches your recording software.
- Speak or sing into the microphone at the typical volume you'll be using for your recording.
- Adjust the "GAIN" knob for the channel your microphone is plugged into.
- Monitor the gain halo around the gain knob:
- Green: Good signal level.
- Amber/Orange: Signal is getting too hot.
- Red: Signal is clipping (distorted).
- Aim for a strong green signal, occasionally flickering to amber during the loudest parts, but avoid red at all costs. This ensures a clean recording without distortion.
Step 5: Monitor Your Sound
To hear your microphone signal, ensure your headphones or studio monitors are connected to the Scarlett 2i2's output jacks. Use the large "MONITOR" knob to control the overall output volume. You can also use the "DIRECT MONITOR" button to hear your input signal with zero latency directly from the interface.
By following these steps, you will have your microphone properly connected and ready for recording with your Scarlett 2i2.
