Owner's Manual

15
Using Direct Monitoring
You will frequently hear the term “latency” used in connection with digital audio systems. In the case
of the simple DAW recording application described above, latency will be the time it takes for your
input signals to pass through your computer and audio software. Latency can be a problem for a
performer who wishes to record while monitoring their input signals.
The Scarlett 2i2 is fitted with a “Direct Monitoring” option, which overcomes this problem. Setting the
front panel DIRECT MONITOR control to either MONO or STEREO will route your input signals
directly to the Scarlett 2i2’s headphone and main monitor outputs. This enables you to hear yourself
with zero latency – i.e., in “real time” – along with the computer playback. The input signals to your
computer are not affected in any way by this setting.
In MONO mode, Inputs 1 and 2 are routed equally to the two outputs (both the rear panel outputs and
headphones) so that they both appear in the centre of the stereo image. This is useful when you are
recording two separate instruments or an instrument and a vocal, where there is no need for the two
signals to be specifically located in the stereo image. Further examples would be an acoustic and an
electric guitar, a bass which is both mic’d and DI’d or two separate mics differently positioned on a
guitar amplifier.
In STEREO mode, Input 1 is routed to the left output channel and Input 2 to the right. Use this mode
if you are recording something that is inherently stereo in nature. Monitoring in stereo will give you
a more accurate impression of the sound stage. Examples are any situation where two microphones
are being used to deliberately capture a stereo image such as a pair of overhead drum mics, a single
stereo mic recording an orchestra or other ensemble, or the stereo outputs of an electronic source
such as a piano, synthesiser or FX unit.
When using Direct Monitoring, ensure that your DAW software is not set to route its input (what you
are currently recording) to its output. If it is, you will hear yourself “twice”, with one signal audibly
delayed as an echo.
Monitoring with DIRECT MONITOR set to OFF can be useful when using an FX plug-in to your DAW to
create a stereo effect which contributes to the live performance. In this way, you will be able to hear
exactly what is being recorded, complete with the FX. However, some latency may result, the amount
depending on the DAW’s buffer size and processing power of the computer.
Connecting Scarlett 2i2 to headphones
The Scarlett 2i2 Studio package includes a pair of high quality HP60 MkIII headphones. They are
lightweight and durable, and should prove comfortable to wear for extended periods. The headband
is adjustable.
The HP60 MkIII headphones have a low noise, oxygen-free copper cable, fitted with a ¼” (6.35 mm)
3-pole (TRS) jack plug. This should be connected to the socket at the right hand side of the Scarlett
2i2 front panel (indicated by a symbol). The Scarlett 2i2’s headphone output is, of course, suitable
for use with other models of headphones: if they terminate in a 3.5 mm TRS “mini jack”, use a TRS
¼”-to-3.5 mm jack adaptor
The volume in the headphones can be adjusted by the rotary control immediately above the socket.
Please be aware that headphones are capable of generating very high sound pressure
levels at the ear; prolonged exposure to high sound levels may impair your hearing. Never
turn headphones volume up any further than necessary.