The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 is a compact audio interface that offers bang for your buck. Unfortunately, some users have experienced trouble using headphones with the Scarlett 8i6.
In this article, we’ll dive into any issues you might be facing with your headphones and get them working again in no time!
Here’s Why Your Headphones Aren’t Working with Scarlett 8i6:
Your headphone inputs and outputs are likely set up incorrectly in Focusrite Control. Load up Focusrite Control and verify that the settings are properly set for your specific setup and hardware. Your drivers may need updating or your power source is faulty.
Here’s How to Set Up Your Focusrite Control Settings
If you’re struggling with headphone issues with the Focusrite Scarlett 8i6, it’s likely that the problem is with your setup in Focusrite Control.
Focusrite Control is the software used to configure your Focusrite device settings and can be downloaded on Focusrite’s website.
Here’s how to set up Focusrite Control for your headphones:
- Open Focusrite Control.
- In the menu at the top of the Focusrite Control window, click on “File” to access the file menu options.
- From the file menu, select “Output Presets”
- In the output presets menu, choose “System Playback” or a similar option that corresponds to the desired output configuration.
By selecting the appropriate output preset, you can ensure that the audio output settings in Focusrite Control are optimized for system playback.
Read Also: Focusrite Scarlett Too Quiet? 4 Quick Fixes
Why Don’t My Headphones Work with Scarlett 8i6?
Troubleshooting audio issues can sometimes be a process of elimination, but with the right steps, you can get your headphones working again.
Let’s dive into some reasons you might be experiencing headphone issues, and get you back on track!
Your Outputs are Set Up Incorrectly
The main reason for headphone problems with the Scarlett 8i6 is an incorrect setup in Focusrite Control.
Here’s how to set it up correctly:
Send Output 3 and 4 of Live to the Headphones in Scarlett MixControl
- Launch Scarlett MixControl software on your computer.
- Locate the settings related to routing or outputs.
- Ensure that the output channels 3 and 4 of your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) are correctly assigned to Line Output 3 and Line Output 4 in Scarlett MixControl.
- Save the changes in Scarlett MixControl and close the software.
- Check if the audio from your DAW is now being routed to the headphones connected to the Scarlett 8i6.
If you’re not familiar with Scarlett MixControl or unsure about the settings, consult the user manual provided by Focusrite. You’ll find detailed instructions on how to configure routing and outputs correctly.
Your Focusrite Drivers Need to be Reinstalled
Reinstalling drivers can often help with audio issues like you’re experiencing with your headphones.
Here’s how to reinstall your Focusrite 8i6 drivers:
- Uninstall the existing Scarlett 8i6 drivers from your computer. You can do this through the Control Panel or using a dedicated uninstallation tool provided by Focusrite.
- Disconnect the Scarlett 8i6 from your computer.
- Visit the Focusrite website and download the latest drivers specifically designed for your operating system.
- Install the downloaded drivers and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once the installation is complete, reconnect the Scarlett 8i6 to your computer and check if the headphones are now functioning properly.
Make sure you download the correct drivers for your specific Scarlett 8i6 model and operating system. It’s also a good idea to temporarily disable any antivirus software during the driver installation to prevent any potential conflicts.
You May be Experiencing Power Issues
Power issues may be the cause of your headphone problem, so here are some troubleshooting tips to get them working again.
Try a different power outlet:
- Disconnect the Scarlett 8i6 from the current power outlet.
- Plug it into a different power outlet in your vicinity.
- Ensure that the new outlet is working correctly by plugging in another device and confirming it powers on.
- Reconnect the Scarlett 8i6 and check if the headphone issue is resolved.
Sometimes, power fluctuations or issues with the power outlet can affect the performance of audio interfaces.
If you encounter problems in the future, consider using a surge protector or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect your equipment from power-related issues.
What Headphones are Best With the Scarlett 8i6?
When using headphones with the Scarlett 8i6, it’s important to understand the relationship between headphone impedance and the power output of the interface.
Higher-impedance headphones generally require more power from the headphone output compared to lower-impedance headphones.
However, almost all headphones should work fine with the headphone outputs of the Scarlett 8i6.
In terms of headphone types, closed-back headphones are particularly useful in situations where you want to prevent sound bleed, such as when worn by vocalists or performers near microphones. They offer good isolation and help keep the sound focused.
On the other hand, open or semi-closed headphones are great for control room use and long recording or mixing sessions.
They provide a more spacious and natural sound, which can be beneficial for critical listening and extended periods of use.
Here are some great options for use with the Scarlett 8i6:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Sennheiser HD 650
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
Read Also: Focusrite Scarlett Buzzing Sound? 8 Things To Check
Who is Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 Best For?
The Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 is an amazing audio interface that’s perfect for home recording and music production. It’s designed specifically for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who want a compact yet powerful interface with plenty of connectivity options.
The built-in Focusrite preamps offer exceptional sound quality, renowned for their low distortion and low noise performance.
The Scarlett 8i6 offers two combination inputs with dedicated gain control, allowing you to fine-tune your audio levels just the way you like them.
Whether you’re setting up your home studio, working on your own songs, hosting a podcast, or mixing beats as a DJ, the Scarlett 8i6 could be the option for you.
Its quality, versatility, and portability make it an ideal choice for any aspiring or experienced musician or audio enthusiast.
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What impedance headphones should I use with my audio interface?