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It depends on your exact interface and generation. First- and second-generation Scarlett Solo, 2i2 and 2i4 models are hardware-controlled and do not use Focusrite Control. Third-generation Scarlett Solo, 2i2 and 4i4 models need Focusrite Control; fourth-generation versions need Focusrite Control 2. Audio software, drivers and control apps are separate pieces, so an interface that can pass audio without a particular app may still require its driver or software for settings and routing.
Identify the interface before deciding
Check the model name and generation printed on the unit, then match both to the guidance below. Do not infer the requirements for one Scarlett model from another: in particular, the second-generation 6i6, 18i8 and 18i20 differ from the second-generation Solo, 2i2 and 2i4.
| Interface | Focusrite software guidance | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Scarlett Solo, 2i2 or 2i4, 1st generation | Driver only; Focusrite says these models are not compatible with Scarlett Mix Control or Focusrite Control. | Controls are hardware-based. Set buffer size and sample rate in your DAW’s audio preferences on Mac or the ASIO Control Panel on Windows. |
| Scarlett Solo, 2i2 or 2i4, 2nd generation | Driver only; Focusrite says these models are not compatible with Scarlett Mix Control or Focusrite Control. | Controls are hardware-based. This does not describe the 2nd-generation 6i6, 18i8 or 18i20, which are listed as compatible with Control/Control 2. |
| Scarlett Solo, 2i2 or 4i4, 3rd generation | Focusrite says Focusrite Control is needed. These models are also listed as compatible with Control 2; confirm the current OS and model notes before changing software. | On the 3rd-generation Solo and 2i2, output routing is not supported in Focusrite Control; output controls are on the front panel. |
| Scarlett Solo, 2i2 or 4i4, 4th generation | Focusrite says Focusrite Control 2 is needed. | Check the current Control 2 release notes for operating-system compatibility. |
| Other Focusrite families or models | Requirements vary. Control 2 supports Clarett+, Clarett USB, ISA C8X and selected 2nd-generation Scarlett models. Other families may use different software. | Use the downloads and compatibility guidance for the exact model rather than applying a Scarlett Solo rule. |
Sources: Focusrite’s bus-powered Scarlett compatibility guidance and Windows driver installation guidance.
Separate audio use from software control
“Can I use it without Focusrite Control?” can mean either “Can I record or play audio?” or “Can I change the routing and settings managed by the app?” Those are not the same question. Focusrite’s model guidance identifies which interfaces use control software; it does not establish that every model’s audio functions or settings work identically without that software.
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The driver is also distinct from the control application. On Windows, Focusrite says its interfaces need a driver to run properly. The company recommends its driver for low-latency ASIO recording in supported applications; select the Focusrite ASIO driver in your recording software’s audio settings. The driver is bundled with control software for models that use that software. On Mac, the Windows-specific driver statement should not be treated as a universal OS requirement; follow the setup instructions for your exact model.
Focusrite says Microsoft’s class driver is intended for two-channel input and playback from non-ASIO software, not low-latency recording. For the relevant product and Windows version, get the correct driver or control software from Focusrite’s model-specific downloads. See Focusrite’s Windows plug-and-play guidance and driver installation instructions.
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What to do if the app cannot change an output
A control app can recognize an interface without offering every control for it. Focusrite says Focusrite Control detects the 3rd-generation Scarlett Solo and 2i2, but displays “Output routing is not supported on this device” for output routing; output-related controls are on the unit’s front panel. That specific limitation does not mean Focusrite Control is optional for every 3rd-generation Scarlett. Details are in Focusrite’s hardware detection and routing guidance.
Check Control 2 compatibility and version
Compatibility changes over time, so check the release notes for your interface and computer rather than relying on an old installation guide. Focusrite Control 2 version 1.1139.0, dated 15 September 2026, lists Windows 11, Windows 10 (64-bit), macOS 26 (Tahoe), macOS 15 (Sequoia) and macOS 14 (Sonoma). Its listed devices include all Scarlett 4th Gen and Scarlett 3rd Gen; only Scarlett 2nd Gen 18i20, 18i8 and 6i6; Clarett+; Clarett USB; and ISA C8X, with a version requirement noted for ISA C8X. These are the release’s stated compatibility details, not a guarantee for later versions. Check the current Focusrite Control 2 release notes before installing.
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Before switching from Focusrite Control to Control 2
Do not keep the original Focusrite Control and Control 2 installed together: Focusrite says this causes connection issues. Switching between them resets the interface to factory defaults. If you have an important setup, save a Snapshot before moving to Control 2; Snapshots made in the original Control cannot be loaded in Control 2. Follow Focusrite’s upgrade guidance.
If Control 2 does not detect your interface
- Confirm compatibility. Check that your exact interface model and generation are supported by Control 2 in the release notes.
- Check the connection and detection. Verify the USB connection and use Focusrite’s Control 2 detection troubleshooting steps.
- Do not treat non-detection as proof that the app is unnecessary. The software requirement depends on the model; a connection problem does not change that requirement.
Using an interface with an iPhone or iPad
Focusrite’s Control 2 mobile app remotely controls the desktop application; it does not control an interface connected directly to an iPhone or iPad. For mains-powered interfaces, consult Focusrite’s iPhone and iPad preparation guidance.
Quick Recap
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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