Focusrite Clarett+ 2PreFrom real comments

Verdict distilled from 42 mentions across 13 aspects in comments under product review videos.

Positive sentiment50%
PROS 50%
CONS 50%

Rank based on 42 mentions across 13 aspects

View the verdict as

Buy this if...

  • You want a clear step up in preamp/converter quality from a Scarlett-tier interface
  • You mainly monitor with higher-impedance headphones
  • You value strong build quality and don't need Linux hardware controls

What users love

Skip this if...

  • You monitor exclusively on low-impedance headphones
  • You need reliable Linux class-compliant hardware switching
  • You need the lowest possible latency at this price point

What users complain about

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Focusrite Clarett+ 2Pre
Excellent preamp and converter qualityGood upgrade path from entry-level interfacesStrong build qualityHeadphone output noise and impedance sensitivityLow gain / need to max out preamp knobNo Linux hardware controls
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Strong build quality
Headphone output noise and impedance sensitivity
Low gain / need to max out preamp knob
No Linux hardware controls

Who wins on what

Ranked by what users actually praise

Overall Impression

Preamp and converter quality impressed most upgraders. Multiple users switching from Scarlett or other budget interfaces described the Clarett+ 2Pre as a major sonic upgrade, with clearer, 'face melting' sound and superior preamps. One long-time owner called it the best money spent on gear, and another said review graphs matched their real-world experience recording albums. Build quality and knob feel were repeatedly called excellent.

Headphone output and gain behavior frustrate several owners. A recurring complaint is headphone amp noise, especially with low-impedance headphones or Air Mode engaged, with some advising against it for headphone-only mixing. Others report needing the gain knob near 90-100% for usable signal on some mics, with volume jumping sharply near max. An analog (non-digital) headphone pot also causes channel imbalance at low volumes for some users.

Software, Linux support and consistency drew criticism. Some users found the line/instrument switching inconsistent and disliked that basic controls require Focusrite Control software rather than hardware buttons, limiting Linux use despite class-compliant USB. A few reported crackling, driver instability, or units randomly toggling between mic/instrument mode. Latency was called worse than some older or cheaper competing interfaces by at least one commenter.

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