Why I Switched from Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 to Elgato Wave XLR

Why I Ditched My Scarlett 2i2 for the Wave XLR (4 Major Reasons)

After years of using the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, I finally made the switch to the Elgato Wave XLR, and I couldn't be happier! In this post, I’ll break down the four major reasons that drove my decision to change, and hopefully, this will help you if you’re considering a similar upgrade.

🌀 The Cord Design Dilemma

First and foremost, let's talk about the design. The Scarlett 2i2 has a rather cumbersome setup. You have to plug an XLR cord in the front and another cord in the back to connect it to your computer. This means you have cords coming out both ends, creating a messy and cluttered look on your desk.

These XLR cords are not only thick but also heavy. They take up a lot of space, making it difficult to arrange your workspace neatly. If you accidentally bump the desk, everything can go flying! The Elgato Wave XLR, on the other hand, has a more streamlined design where the connections are all on the back, which makes cable management a breeze.

🔘 Button Troubles

Next up is the button issue. With the Scarlett, there's a phantom power button that needs to be turned on for the microphone to work. However, it often turns off by default. This inconsistency can lead to frustrating moments where you finish a recording session only to find out there was no sound because the button was off!

This forced me to keep the Scarlett in a visible spot on my desk just so I could check the button status constantly. It was a hassle! The Elgato Wave XLR simplifies this by eliminating that problematic button. You don’t have to worry about it turning off unexpectedly, so you can focus on your recording without the constant fear of technical difficulties.

🔊 Sound Quality Improvements

Now, let’s dive into sound quality. I recorded some audio using the Scarlett 2i2 without any post-production assistance. Then I compared it with the Elgato Wave XLR. The difference in audio quality was noticeable. The Scarlett required post-production work in Adobe Audition to boost the loudness to a normal level, whereas the Wave XLR delivered impressive sound right out of the box.

For anyone serious about their audio quality, this is a big deal. You want your recordings to sound great without the need for extensive editing. The Elgato Wave XLR provides that clarity and richness, making it a worthy upgrade.

💰 Price Considerations

Lastly, let's discuss price. I initially bought the Scarlett 2i2 back in 2018, and I may have overpaid for it. The Focusrite model I purchased was designed for two speakers with two XLR inputs. However, I rarely needed that setup since most of my interviews and recordings are done virtually using software like Streamyard.

At the time of my purchase, I didn’t realize there were more affordable options that would fit my needs better. The Elgato Wave XLR is often priced at around $159, but I was fortunate to catch it on sale for only $149. Considering the features and sound quality it offers, it felt like a no-brainer to switch. Plus, it doesn’t have the button issue that plagued the Scarlett.

🔧 Software Compatibility Issues

One thing to note when switching to the Elgato Wave XLR is the Wavelink software, especially for Mac users. Historically, Elgato software has had its quirks on MacOS. However, I’ve found that using the latest experimental or beta version of Wavelink works much better than the standard version. So if you're a Mac user, make sure to download that version instead of the regular one!

🎁 Bonus: The Free Faceplate

As a bonus, when I ordered the Elgato Wave XLR, I received a free faceplate! These are typically $10, so it was a nice little perk. While I planned to keep the device out of sight, it’s always nice to have something pretty to look at if it’s ever in view.

📋 Summary of My Experience

To summarize, my decision to switch from the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 to the Elgato Wave XLR was driven by:

• Cord Design: A cleaner, more organized setup with all connections at the back.

• Button Issues: No more phantom power button to worry about.

• Sound Quality: Clear audio without the need for extensive post-production.

• Price: A more cost-effective solution that met my needs.

If you're contemplating an upgrade to your audio setup, I highly recommend considering the Elgato Wave XLR. It has transformed my recording experience for the better!

For those interested in learning more about audio setups or looking for resources on designing and selling your own planners, check out Pretty Fabulous Designs. You can find tutorials and templates that can help you create beautiful products!

Let me know your thoughts or questions in the comments below. Happy recording!