Focusrite Clarett
Summary
Abstract
The Focusrite Clarett+ series is a mid-range interface line that has earned strong community endorsement as an Apollo-killer at a fraction of the cost. Multiple members independently reported preferring the Clarett+ preamps and conversion over the Universal Audio Apollo x4, describing the sound as clearer and more direct. The Clarett+ 2Pre is bus-powered and highly portable, while the 4Pre model adds dedicated line inputs for outboard gear integration. The series was updated to “Clarett+” with improved conversion that has been very well received.
Key Characteristics
- Preamps and conversion preferred over Apollo x4 — multiple independent users report clearer, more direct sound compared to UA Apollo
- Bus-powered (USB-C) — no external power supply needed; great for mobile recording
- Dedicated line inputs — the 4Pre model has separate line ins at the back, bypassing the preamp circuit entirely (unlike Apollo x4 where line signals must pass through the preamp circuit)
- Clarett+ update improved conversion — the “plus” revision brought updated converters that are highly regarded
- **Conversion competitive with 2k and was “not sold on there being any real improvement”
- No DSP processing — unlike Apollo, there is no onboard DSP for plugins, which means adjusting your recording workflow
- Compact form factor — much smaller and lighter than Apollo x4
Use Cases
- Apollo replacement for mixers — saves significant money while matching or exceeding conversion quality
- Portable/mobile recording — bus-powered design is ideal for on-the-go work
- Pairing with external preamps — dedicated line inputs make outboard integration clean
- Budget mastering monitoring — conversion quality is competitive enough for critical listening
- Production rooms — the Clarett+ was the centerpiece of at least one member’s production workflow after leaving Apollo
Settings & Sweet Spots
- Use the dedicated line inputs (rear panel on 4Pre) when connecting external preamps to avoid double-preamp coloring
- If coming from Apollo, budget time to rebuild templates and recording workflow since there is no DSP console equivalent
Comparable Alternatives
| Interface | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Audio Apollo x4 | $1,500+ | More expensive; DSP is the main advantage |
| Focusrite Scarlett Gen 4 | 500 | Nearly identical conversion at lower price; fewer features |
| Audient iD44 | 800 | Similar tier; insert loops are a differentiator |
| RME Babyface Pro | 1,000 | Better drivers; RME reliability premium |
| PreSonus Quantum | $800 | Fast, great conversion, more I/O |
Common Mistakes
- Not realizing the workflow change from Apollo — losing DSP console and high-buffer recording means rebuilding your tracking templates
- Assuming the original Clarett is the same as Clarett+ — the plus revision has meaningfully improved conversion
- Overlooking the Gen 4 Scarlett — if you do not need the Clarett’s extra line inputs or slightly better chips, the new Scarlett may be sufficient
See Also
Source Discussions
Community Insights
“Both the conversion and preamps feel clearer on my Focusrite Clarett+ 2pre than what I have with the Apollo x4. As in the mic sounds more muffled on the Apollo and more ‘direct’ with the Clarett.” — Maxim
“+1 on clarett beating apollo.” — popaganda
“I had the clarett next to dacs that cost 2k and I wasn’t sold on there being any real improvement. Conversion ain’t the bottleneck with these units. However while recording I noticed an instant improvement with the Clarett.” — Maxim
“With the Clarett pre4 you get 4 separate line ins at the back on top of the combo jacks at the front.” — Maxim
“The plus version was baller. Only ditched it for Orion when I got my little Soundcraft.” — popaganda