Applies to: Scarlett Solo, 2i2, 2i4, 4i4
These instructions only apply to iPad/iPhone models that feature a lightning connector, if you have an iPad with a USB-C connector, refer to this article.
The Scarlett audio interfaces are class-compliant audio interfaces. This means that they can use the core audio driver built into iOS. We do not officially test or support bus-powered Scarlett interfaces with iPads using a lightning connection, however, we can expect them to work.
If you have a 3rd Generation Scarlett, the Scarlett's firmware should be updated using the latest version of Focusrite Control, on a Windows or Mac.*
* If there is no computer available for the firmware update, please contact Focusrite Technical Support.
On Windows:
- Please download and install Focusrite Control onto your computer, if you haven't already done so.
- Your computer will prompt a restart to complete the installation process.
- After restarting, open Focusrite Control with the device connected, and let us know if the application prompts you to run a firmware update on your device.
On Mac:
- Please download and install the Mac version of Focusrite Control
Once the firmware is updated, you can now plug it into an iPad.
In addition to the included USB cable, in order to connect your Scarlett to an iPad, you will need either of the following:
- An official Apple Lighting to USB 3 camera adapter
- An official Apple USB to Lightning Adapter, with a powered USB hub, to power your unit.
- (The iPad cannot power the Scarlett interfaces through its internal power).
If you use an Apple Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter, you should connect the devices in the following order:
- Scarlett to Camera Adapter
- Camera Adapter to the Power source, using Official Apple Lightning cable and power adapter that comes originally packaged with the iOS device.
- Apple Camera Connection Kit adapter to the iPad.
If using a regular Apple USB to Lightning Adapter, you should connect the devices in the following order:
- Scarlett to powered USB hub via USB
- USB hub's outgoing USB port to Lightning Adapter.
- Apple Adapter to the iPad
- The Powered USB hub mains adaptor to a power source.
Scarlett - USB > Powered USB hub - USB > Apple Adapter - lightning connector > iPad
Once connected, plug headphones or speakers into your Scarlett.
- Unlock the iPad, and you should then see a green USB light on the front of your Scarlett.
- Play any audio from your iPad, such as any video on Youtube, and slowly turn up the monitor level on the Scarlett. You iPad should now be sending audio through your Scarlett's outputs.
- From here, you should able to use your Scarlett as an output and input device for your iPad with apps that allow you to use external audio devices, such as Garageband, or the Focusrite Impact app.
Important: The Scarlett 4i4 3rd Gen will need to be connected to a computer in order to change routing and settings in Focusrite Control. Focusrite Control iOS cannot be used to control a Scarlett that is connected to your iPad, this app is a remote for the desktop version of the software.