User Manual

15
Typical consumer (hi-fi) amplifiers and small powered monitors will have unbalanced inputs, either
on phono (RCA) sockets, or via a 3.5 mm 3-pole jack plug intended for direct connection to a computer.
In either case, use a suitable connecting cable with phono plugs (RCA jacks) at one end.
Professional power amplifiers will generally have balanced inputs; we highly recommend using
balanced cables to connect these to the ¼” jack outputs of the Scarlett 4i4.
NOTE: You run the risk of creating an audio feedback loop if loudspeakers are active when you
are monitoring a microphone! We recommend that you always turn off (or turn down) monitoring
loudspeakers while recording, and use headphones when overdubbing.
Creating an effects loop
The Scarlett 4i4 allows the easy integration of external outboard processors or effects. A good example
is the inclusion of an outboard stereo compressor to a recording setup similar to that outlined above.
Connect Line Outputs 3 and 4 to the compressor’s inputs, and the compressor’s outputs to Line
Inputs 3 and 4, as shown below. We have omitted the front panel connections in this example for
clarity.
CH 1
IN OUT
CH 2
IN OUT
See previous example diagrams
for details of connectors
You can adjust the levels to and from the external processor from Focusrite Control, if necessary.