Applies to all USB interfaces

Scarlett 4th Generation

Scarlett 4th Generation devices are provided with either a USB-C to A cable, or a USB-C to C cable, depending on the model. 

Scarlett Solo and 2i2 are provided with a USB-C to A cable, and can be connected, and powered via either a USB-A or USB-C port.

Scarlett 4i4, 16i16 and 18i16 are provided with a USB-C to C cable. These devices can be connected to either a USB-A or USB-C port, however some computers may not provide enough power for these devices, indicated by the USB LED flashing red. If this is the case for you:

• Use the included USB cable in the box.
• Connect the USB-C to C cable directly between your Scarlett, and computer.
• Use the included USB-C power supply, connecting to the port labelled 5V DC on the Scarlett.

 For more information on this, see below:

Scarlett 16i16 and 18i16 4th Gen USB-C bus power requirements

Scarlett 18i20 is provided with a USB-C to C cable, and can be connected to either a USB-C or USB-A port. Scarlett 18i20 requires the IEC power connection to power the unit.

Clarett+ and Scarlett 3rd Generation

Clarett+ and Clarett USB interfaces ship with two different USB cables: a USB-C to A cable and a USB-C to C cable. 

Scarlett 3rd Generation devices are provided with only a USB-C to A cable, but can be used with a USB-C to C cable.

You can therefore connect these devices using either:

A USB Type-A (2.0 or 3.0) port:

Or a USB Type-C port:

Scarlett 3rd Gen and Clarett USB interfaces can also be connected to Thunderbolt 1 & 2 ports (via an adapter, such as using a Thunderbolt 2 Dock which includes USB ports) or Thunderbolt 3 ports (using a USB-C to USB-C cable). Please see this article before using a Thunderbolt 3 port.

Regardless of which connection you use, the interface will still operate and function as a USB 2.0 device, and performance will remain the same.

If this article hasn't helped you, please feel free to search again at the top of this page or, to contact support, please click here.