Applies to devices which use Focusrite Control 2
Loopback allows you to capture your computer's audio and record it into your recording software on a separate channel alongside your mics or instruments. Loopback works by 'looping back' audio outputs from your computer to virtual input channels within your interface. Any computer audio can be recorded into a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).
To check if your interface supports Loopback, see the article below.
Which Focusrite interfaces feature Loopback?
When using Loopback, mute the loopback channels in your recording software so you don't cause a feedback loop.
Scarlett Solo and 2i2 (4th Generation)
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen and 2i2 4th Gen have a stereo loopback channel, which allows you to send the sound produced by your computer and route it back into your Scarlett for recording or streaming.
On these devices, you have the ability to choose the Loopback mode. This enables you to choose how your Loopback audio is sent to your recording, communication, and streaming apps.
If Loopback Modes are not available, please ensure you have the latest version of Focusrite Control 2.
To change the Loopback mode, open Focusrite Control 2 > Settings > Device > Loopback modes.
The three loopback modes are:
Audio capture (default)
Audio capture enables you to mix the analogue inputs and software playback and send the mix to USB inputs 3-4 for recording. You can also record the analogue inputs separately on USB 1-2.
Video call
Video call enables you to mix the analogue inputs and send them to USB inputs 1-2 for video calling. Software playback is removed from the Loopback mix, preventing callers hearing an echo of themselves.
Stream
Stream enables you to mix the analogue inputs and software playback and send the mix to USB inputs 1-2 for streaming.
It is possible to customise which inputs are sent to the Loopback mix:
- Click the Mixer tab, and select the Loopback mix.
- Adjust the fader level for each input of the mix.
Note: Playback 1-2 is the main stereo output from your computer.
Selecting Loopback in Applications
Audio Capture
When using Audio Capture mode, Loopback audio is routed to USB inputs 3-4.
On Windows, if you are using a DAW with ASIO support, you will be able to select this input to record the Loopback mix. If you're not using a DAW, the Loopback channel will not appear, and you may only be able to select Input 1+2 of the device. To view the Loopback channel as a separate audio device in Windows, follow the article below.
Expose/Hide Windows Channels for non-ASIO Windows apps
On macOS, it is only possible to select the Loopback input in applications that support specific input selection. If you're using a DAW, this will likely be supported.
Applications such as Microsoft Teams and Discord do not allow for specific input selection, and will only use input 1 of your interface. See the Video Call or Streaming section below when using these applications.
Video Call or Streaming
When using Video Call or Streaming mode, Loopback audio is routed to USB inputs 1-2.
This can be used in applications where you are unable to select a specific audio input channel, such as in Microsoft Teams or Discord.
All other devices
All routing for the Loopback channel is done in Focusrite Control 2. It is possible to create a custom mix for your Loopback. By default, the Loopback channel is set to Playback 1-2.
To create a custom mix for your Loopback channel:
- Open Focusrite Control 2.
- Click the Mixer window.
- Select a Mix, in this example we will use Mix C.
- To the right of Routed to →, select the pencil icon
, and tick Loopback.
- Raise the fader for each input you would like to add to the Loopback mix.
Inputs within this mix will now be routed to the Loopback channel.
Selecting Loopback in Applications
Windows
If you are using a DAW with ASIO support, you will be able to select a specific input for your interface to record. If not using a DAW, the Loopback channel will not appear, and you might only be able to select Input 1+2 of the device. To view the Loopback channel as a separate audio device in Windows, follow the article below.
Expose/Hide Windows Channels for non-ASIO Windows apps
macOS
It is only possible to select the Loopback channel in applications which support specific input selection. If you're using a DAW, this will likely be supported.
Applications such as Microsoft Teams and Discord do not allow for specific input selection, and will only use input 1 of your interface.
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.