Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 vs Komplete Audio 2: Which Is Better?

For a long time, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 has been our top recommendation for beginner audio interfaces. That said, Native Instruments’ Komplete Audio 2 is also a compelling choice for people who are new to music production.

Both are user-friendly and deliver clean-sounding audio. So the differences come down to features, software, and price.

Quick Look: Focusrite Scarlett Solo vs Komplete Audio 2

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Ease of Use

Both interfaces require very little setup, and are essentially plug-and-play devices. All the essential controls are easily accessible from the front or top of each device..

But there’s one design difference that may or may not affect usability.

The Komplete Audio 2 has two combo XLR/line inputs on the front, which is pretty common for interfaces in this price range.

On the other hand, the 2i2 splits the XLR and line inputs apart — the XLR ports are on the back, while the line inputs are on the front.

I see this causing some minor problems for new users:

• Even though the XLR and line inputs are split apart, the 2i2 is still only a 2-input device (hence the name). But some newcomers might look at it and think it has 4 inputs, then get frustrated when they can’t record four things at once.
• For some people, having the XLR ports on the back could be a godsend for cable management. But for others, having them on the back would make them less accessible.

Again, these are minor issues. If you understand those things before buying a 2i2, then you should be all right.

Inputs & Outputs

Both devices are 2-input, 2-output audio interfaces, with some differences:

Inputs

The Komplete Audio 2 has two combo XLR/line inputs, which accepts both XLR and instrument cables.

Like I mentioned above, the Scarlett 2i2 splits up the XLR and line inputs. The XLR ports are on the back, while the line inputs are still on the front.

But even though they’re split up, it doesn’t actually double the number of available inputs. You can still only record two things at a time.

Outputs

Each device features two 1/4-inch stereo line outputs. Nothing all that different.

Connectivity

The Focusrite connects to computers and mobile devices via USB-C. It’s fast, flexible, and works perfectly for modern studio setups.

The Komplete Audio still uses USB type B. By today’s standards, it’s really dated. It’ll be slower and more prone to input latency than the Scarlett.

Audio Quality

Both the Scarlett and the Komplete Audio can record at 24-bit and 192 kHz resolution. 

In other words, they’re both roughly similar quality.

When recording the Scarlett with neutral settings, it tends to have a slightly crisper high end compared to the Komplete Audio interface. At least from my observation.

That said, both are really good. And the subtle differences between them won’t matter as much once you place your recordings in a mix.

Build Quality

Scarlett interfaces have an all-metal outer chassis with an attractive red finish. It feels premium, and will definitely protect everything inside if it ever gets knocked around.

The front panel uses a matte black plastic that won’t smudge. The buttons and dials are all rock-solid and don’t wobble at all.

And if it matters to you, Focusrite sources their materials from recycled products.

The Komplete Audio interface uses an all-plastic body. It doesn’t feel that cheap compared to other low-priced interfaces. But it’s not something I’d feel comfortable dropping either.

A good portion of the Komplete interface has a glossy finish. So be prepared to see some fingerprints and smudging.

Additional Features

The Komplete interface does its job just fine. You’ll get clean, inoffensive audio from this device and will be perfectly happy with it.

But when it comes to additional features, the Scarlett 2i2 easily outclasses the Komplete Audio 2.

Here’s everything the 2i2 does that the Komplete Audio can’t do:

• Air Modes: The 2i2 comes with two EQ settings that boost certain frequencies when recording:
  • Presence — Boosts the high range of a signal to help it cut through a mix.
  • Harmonic Drive — Boosts a signal’s mid-range for more punch and body. It’s especially useful for instrumentals, but vocalists can put it to good use too.
• Auto Gain: Reads your signal and automatically sets it to the perfect gain level. Just speak, sing, or play for 10 seconds, then the interface will automatically adjust the gain for you.
• Clip Safe: Automatically reduces your gain levels to prevent clipping and distortion, saving you from doing multiple takes.
• Optional External Power: The back of the 2i2 has an extra USB-C port for external power supply. This makes it compatible with mobile devices that don’t provide enough power. You can also use it to ease the power burden on your computer.

All these features make the Scarlett 2i2 a premium pick.

Bundled Software

I normally don’t recommend getting an audio interface just for the software. But it’s worth noting that both interfaces come with sizable software packages.

Here’s what you get with each one:

I wouldn’t say either bundle is particularly better than the other. Just different.

Both interfaces come with Ableton Live 11 Lite, which is a fantastic entry-level DAW for producing electronic music and beats.

The Focusrite bundle feels a bit more comprehensive thanks to the instruments and subscriptions. But in terms of effects, I might give a slight edge to the Komplete Audio thanks to all the iZotope plugins.

Native Instruments also advertises Komplete Start as part of the Komplete Audio package. But in reality, it’s free for everybody. So you can download it with or without buying an interface.

Which Device Is the Better?

It’s almost unfair to compare these two audio interfaces since they’re drastically different in terms of price and features. But apples to apples, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is easily the better value.

The audio quality is more or less equivalent to the Komplete Audio 2. But you have way more flexibility with your recordings thanks to the Air Modes, Clip Safe, and Auto Gain settings.

Plus, the external power supply makes it easier to record on the go with your phone or tablet.

All that being said, if you just want a no-frills, budget-friendly audio interface, the Komplete Audio 2 will do the job perfectly fine for most people.

Compare Other Popular Audio Interfaces

Still researching interfaces? Check out some of these head-to-head comparisons between the Scarlett series and other audio interfaces:

• Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 vs Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)
• Focusrite Scarlett Solo vs Behringer UM2
• Komplete Audio 1 vs Focusrite Scarlett Solo

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Research for this article came from personal experience, and from the following sources:

• Focusrite Scarlett Solo
• Komplete Audio Interfaces