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Version 3.0
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio PackUser Guide
Scarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen
User Guide
The complete songwriter’s studio
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Table of Contents
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
What's in the Box? .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
System Requirements ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4
Soware System Requirements ............................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Getting Started ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Powering On your Scarlett ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Easy Start ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Windows ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Mac ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
All Users ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6
What is Focusrite Control 2? ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Installing Focusrite Control 2 ................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
Manual Registration .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 8
Disabling Easy Start .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Hardware Features ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9
Front Panel In Depth ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11
Setting Preamp Input Gain .................................................................................................................................................................................. 11
48V Button (Phantom Power) ............................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Inst (Instrument) Button and Line Level Inputs ............................................................................................................................................................ 13
Air Modes .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13
Output Control .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Direct Monitor Button ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
Headphone Output ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Back Panel In Depth ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
USB Connection ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
Speaker Outputs ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Microphone Input ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Studio Pack Accessories ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
CM25 MkIII Microphone ............................................................................................................................................................................................. 17
SH-450 Headphones ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 18
DAW (Recording Soware) Setup ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Ableton Live ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Logic and GarageBand ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 24
Reaper ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 25
Cubase ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 27
Pro Tools ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
FL Studio ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Focusrite Control 2 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Focusrite Control 2 Settings ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 31
Sample Rate (kHz) ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Clock Source ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 31
Analytics ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 31
Examples of Use ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 32
Connecting Inputs and Outputs .................................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Connecting a Line-Level Device .................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Loopback ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 33
Standalone Mode .................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Updating ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Updating Focusrite Control 2 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Updating your Scarlett .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Performance Specifications ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 36
Physical and Electrical Characteristics ............................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Solo Channel Order ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
CM25 Mk III Microphone Specifications ............................................................................................................................................................................ 38
SH-450 Headphones Specifications ................................................................................................................................................................................ 39
Notices ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Copyright & Legal Notices ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Credits ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
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Overview
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Introduction
Welcome to the Scarlett Solo 4th generation.
We've designed the Scarlett Solo for the artist who never stops creating. Get studio-quality sound
wherever you are with the latest generation of Scarlett:
• Make the most of any mic or guitar with +57dB of gain on each input.
• Re-engineered Air mode with Presence and Harmonic Drive.
• Record straight out of the box with Easy Start and a complete suite of studio soware
included.
• Scarlett's best-ever headphone performance with dedicated level control.
What's in the Box?
The box for your Scarlett Solo includes:
• Scarlett Solo
• USB-C to A cable
• Getting Started Information (printed inside the box lid)
• Important Safety Information sheet
• Scarlett CM25 MkIII Microphone and 3m XLR cable
• Scarlett SH-450 Headphones
• Cardboard microphone stand, integrated into the Scarlett Studio packaging
System Requirements
The easiest way to check your computer’s operating system (OS) is compatible with your Scarlett
Solo is to use our Help Centre’s compatibility articles:
Focusrite Help Centre: Compatibility
As new OS versions become available, you can check for further compatibility information by
searching our Help Centre at:
support.focusrite.com
Soware System Requirements
To check Focusrite Control 2 is supported on your operating system (OS) please use our Help
Centre’s compatibility articles:
Focusrite Help Centre: Compatibility
As new Focusrite Control 2 or OS versions become available, you can check compatibility
information by searching our Help Centre at:
support.focusrite.com
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Getting Started
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Powering On your Scarlett
To power on your Scarlett Solo, connect a USB cable from your computer to the USB port on the
back panel.
For a few seconds, the Scarlett goes through its start-up procedure, then the USB icon lights
green.
Important
If your Scarlett powers on but isn't recognised by your computer, the USB icon
lights white. If this happens:
• Make sure you have installed Focusrite Control 2 on your computer
• Test a dierent USB port on your computer.
• Test a dierent USB cable.
To power on your Scarlett Solo without a computer, see Standalone Mode [33].
Easy Start
Easy Start gives you a step-by-step guide to setting up your Scarlett and creates personalised
tutorials based on how you plan to use your Scarlett. This online tool also guides you through
your Scarlett’s registration process and accessing the soware bundle.
On both Windows and Mac computers, when you connect your Scarlett to your computer, it first
appears as a Mass Storage Device, like a USB drive. Open the drive and double click ‘Click Here To
Get Started.url’. Click ‘Get Started’ to open Easy Start in your web browser.
Windows
Aer you connect your Scarlett Solo to your computer, a device appears in File Explorer called
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen, this allows you to access Easy Start.
To access Easy Start:
1. Open File Explorer.
2. Click on Scarlett Solo 4th Gen (D:). The letter may be dierent.
3. Double-click Click Here to Get Started. This redirects you to the Focusrite website,
where we recommend you register your device:
Aer you’ve opened Easy Start, please follow the step-by-step guide, to install and use your
Scarlett.
4. Click Get Started, and we'll take you through a step-by-step setup guide based on how
you want to use your Scarlett.
During Easy Start, you'll install Focusrite Control 2 . Aer you install and open Focusrite Control 2,
click 'Update Scarlett Solo'. Do not disconnect your Scarlett while Focusrite Control 2 updates it.
Aer the Focusrite Control 2 update is complete, the Scarlett no longer appears as a Mass Storage
Device on your computer.
Your operating system should change the computer’s default audio inputs and outputs to the
Scarlett.
To verify this, right-click the speaker icon on the Windows taskbar, and make sure Scarlett is your
Sound output.
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Mac
Aer you connect your Scarlett Solo to your computer, a Scarlett icon appears on the desktop or,
if you use Chrome, you'll see a pop-up:
Scarlett Easy Start icon: Double click and start from step 1
below.
Chrome pop-up: Click and start from step 2 below.
To access Easy Start:
1. Double-click on the icon to open the Finder window shown below:
During Easy Start, you'll install Focusrite Control 2 . Aer you install and open Focusrite Control 2,
click 'Update Scarlett Solo'. Do not disconnect your Scarlett while Focusrite Control 2 updates it.
Aer the Focusrite Control 2 update is complete, the Scarlett no longer appears as a Mass Storage
Device on your computer.
Your operating system should change the computer’s default audio inputs and outputs to the
Scarlett.
To verify this, go to System Settings > Sound, and ensure the input and output are set to Scarlett
Solo.
All Users
The second file - 'More Info and FAQs' - is also available during the setup process. This file
contains some additional information about Easy Start, which you may find helpful if you have
any issues with the setup.
Once registered, you have immediate access to the following resources:
• Focusrite Control 2 (Mac and Windows versions available) - see note below.
• Multi-language User Guides - also always available from downloads.focusrite.com.
• Licence codes and links for the optional bundled soware in your Focusrite account. To
find out what bundled soware is included with Scarlett Solo, please visit our website:
focusrite.com/scarlett.
2. Double-click Click Here to Get Started. This redirects you to the Focusrite website,
where we recommend you register your device:
3. Click Get Started, and we'll take you through a step-by-step setup guide based on how
you want to use your Scarlett.
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What is Focusrite Control 2?
Focusrite Control 2 is the soware application you use to control your Scarlett interface.
The Focusrite Control 2 icon
We occasionally update your Scarlett Solo's firmware with new features and improvements, to
make sure you are getting the most from your Scarlett. Your Scarlett Solo is updated through
Focusrite Control 2.
Depending on your model Focusrite Control 2 allows you to control various features of
your Scarlett from your computer.
Note
Focusrite Control 2 is compatible with most major screen reader soware, allowing you
to control the features on your Scarlett.
Installing Focusrite Control 2
You can install Focusrite Control 2 on Windows and Mac. To download and install Focusrite
Control 2:
1. Go to the Focusrite downloads website:
focusrite.com/downloads
2. Find your Scarlett on the Downloads website.
3. Download Focusrite Control 2 for your operating system (Windows or Mac).
4. Open the Downloads folder on your computer and double-click the Focusrite Control 2
installer.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Focusrite Control 2.
6. If it’s not already, connect your Scarlett interface to your computer with the USB cable.
7. Open Focusrite Control 2 and it detects your Scarlett automatically.
Note
On Windows, installing Focusrite Control 2 also installs the driver. You can
download Focusrite Control 2 at any time, even without registering from
downloads.focusrite.com. On macOS, you don't need a driver, you only need to install
Focusrite Control 2.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Manual Registration
If you decide to register your Scarlett at a later date, you can at: customer.focusrite.com/register
You need to enter the Serial Number manually: you can find this number on the interface's base
(the white number below) or the barcode label on the gibox.
We recommend you download and install Focusrite Control 2. Opening Focusrite Control 2
disables Easy Start and unlocks your Scarlett Solo's full feature set.
In Easy Start mode, the interface functions at up to 48 kHz sample rate; once you install Focusrite
Control 2, you can work at sample rates up to 192 kHz.
If you don't install Focusrite Control 2 immediately, you can download it at any time from:
downloads.focusrite.com
Disabling Easy Start
Aer you've been through Easy Start, installed and opened Focusrite Control 2, your Scarlett is no
longer in Easy Start mode.
If your Scarlett Solo is still in Easy Start mode, or you have chosen not to install Focusrite Control
2 to disable Easy Start Mode:
1. Turn o your Scarlett Solo
2. Press and hold the 48V button.
3. Keeping the 48V button held, power on your Scarlett Solo.
4. Wait for the front panel to light up, then release the 48V button.
5. Restart (power o and power on) your Scarlett Solo.
Your Scarlett powers on with Easy Start disabled.
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Hardware Features
Front Panel
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
1. Input 1 (Line Level/Instrument) Gain Control and Gain Halo - The Gain control sets the
input level and the Gain Halo shows you the input level for the 6.35mm (1/4") jack line
level/instrument input on the front panel.
2. Input 1 Line Level/Instrument 6.35mm (1/4") Jack Socket - accepts both mono (TS) and
stereo/balanced (TRS) 6.35mm (1/4") jack cables at line or instrument level.
3. Inst Switch - Press to toggle the 6.35mm (1/4") jack, input 1, between line or
instrument level.
4. Input 2 (Microphone) Gain Control and Gain Halo - The Gain control sets the input level
and the Gain Halo shows you the input level for input 2, the XLR microphone connector
on the back panel.
5. 48V Button - Press to turn on 48V phantom power at the XLR mic input to power
condenser microphones.
6. Air Button - Press to turn on AIR mode (see Air).
7. Speaker Output level Control - Control the level going to Outputs R and L.
8. USB LED - Lights green when the interface is recognised by your computer, white
if it is connected but not recognised and o if it is not connected.
9. Direct Monitor Switch - Press to toggle direct monitoring on and o (see direct Monitor
Button).
10. Headphone Level Control - Control the level sent to your headphones.
11. Headphone Output Socket - Connect your headphones here using a TRS 6.35mm
(1/4") jack connector.
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Back Panel
1. - Kensington Lock, use a lock to secure your Scarlett and deter the.
2. USB - USB-C connector to connect your Scarlett to your computer.
3. Speaker Outputs R and L - 6.35mm (1/4") jack (TS or TRS) sockets to connect your
Scarlett to speakers or an amplifier. We recommend you use 6.35mm (1/4") TRS jack
cables for balanced connections.
4. XLR Input 2 - 3-pin XLR connectors to connect your microphones.
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
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Front Panel In Depth
This section covers all the features on your Scarlett Solo's front panel, what they do, how you
might use them and how they work in Focusrite Control 2.
Setting Preamp Input Gain
The preamp input gain controls how much signal you are sending into your computer and
recording soware.
It's essential to set a good level for the preamp input gain so you get the best quality recording. If
the preamp input gain is too low your signal will be too quiet and when you try and boost its level
later you may hear noise in the recording; if the preamp input gain is too high you might 'clip' the
input and hear harsh distortion in your recording.
The Scarlett Solo has two analogue gain controls for preamp 1 (Line/Inst) and preamp 2
(Microphone).
To control the input gain, turn the gain control for the preamp you are using clockwise to
increase the level or anti-clockwise to decrease the level.
When you send a signal into your preamp, the Gain Halo lights green, amber or red to show the
signal level going into your computer.
• Green shows your signal level is good.
• Amber shows your signal is pre-clip, any higher and you are likely to clip the input
• Red shows your signal has clipped, you should reduce the gain.
This diagram shows the meters at dierent levels to show the input signal level:
Soware Meters
In the same way as the input meters on your Scarlett Solo's front panel, you can see the incoming
signal on the meters in Focusrite Control 2 to set the correct preamp gain.
As the signal gets louder the meter in Focusrite Control 2 lights from green to amber (pre-clip).
The indicator above the meter shows you the peak level (in -dBFS), the highest level on this track
since you started monitoring the input. When you hover over the Peak level Meter you can click to
Reset the value.
1. No input signal
2. -42 dBFS
3. -36 dBFS
4. -24 dBFS
5. -18 dBFS
6. -12 dBFS
7. -6 dBFS
8. 0 dBFS, clipping - turn down the input gain to avoid distortion and clipping.
Waiting for an input signal. The input signal has reached -18.5dB.
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48V (Phantom Power) Soware Control
To enable 48V (Phantom Power) from Focusrite Control 2 click the +48V button. This is the same
as pressing the 48V button on the Scarlett Solo hardware.
+48V Phantom Power o +48V Phantom Power on
Click to Reset the Peak Level meter.
When you overload the preamp, with too much input signal, or by adding too much gain, the
Peak Level Meter lights red. Hover over the Peak Level Meter and click to Reset the value.
The Input has clipped. Click to Reset the Peak Level Meter aer clipping.
48V Button (Phantom Power)
48V, also commonly referred to as 'Phantom Power', sends 48 Volts from your interface's XLR
connector to devices needing power to work. The most common use is sending power to
condenser microphones, but you may also need 48V for inline mic preamps, active dynamic
microphones and active DI boxes.
To turn on 48V:
1. Connect your microphone, or another powered device, to the XLR input on your
interface using an XLR cable. 48V is not sent to the 6.35mm (1/4") jack input.
2. Turn down that preamp's gain control to avoid any unwanted pops and clicks.
3. Press the 48V button (or the corresponding soware button)
Important
If you accidentally send 48V phantom power to the wrong input, most modern
microphones of other types, e.g., dynamic or ribbon, will not be damaged, but some
older microphones may be. If you're unsure, please check your microphone's user guide
to ensure it is safe to use with
48V phantom power.
48v lights green to show it's enabled. 48V phantom power is now being sent to the XLR input on
your Scarlett and to any device connected to the XLR input.
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Inst (Instrument) Button and Line Level Inputs
The Inst (Instrument) button only aects the 6.35mm (1/4") line input for the selected channel.
It changes it from an input suitable for line-level devices to an input better suited for instrumentlevel devices.
To enable, or disable, instrument mode for the 6.35mm (1/4") jack input, press the Inst button
once. Green shows Inst is enabled, and white shows Inst is disabled. When you enable Inst and
connect a jack to your Scarlett, the minimum gain for the input is changed to +7dB.
Note
When the Inst light is white, the 6.35mm jack input is at line level.
When Inst is enabled (green) you can connect instrument-level devices to the 1/4" inputs such as,
but not limited to:
• Electric or electro-acoustic guitars directly and via eects pedals.
• Electric basses
• Acoustic instruments with pick-ups such as violins, double-basses etc.
When Inst is disabled (white) you can connect line-level devices to the 6.35mm (1/4") inputs such
as, but not limited to:
• Synthesisers
• Keyboards
• Drum Machines
• External Microphone Preamps
Air Modes
Air lets you change your Scarlett's preamp sound with two dierent modes; Air Presence or Air
Presence and Harmonic Drive.
Air is only available for the microphone input.
To enable Air, select your input, press the Air button once for Air Presence, again for Air Presence
and Harmonic drive and again to turn o. The Air LED changes colour to show which mode you
have selected:
Mode Description AIR LED Notes
O The preamp is clean White
Air Presence An analogue circuit gives a presence boost to your
Air Presence and
Harmonic Drive
sources.
Adds harmonics, in addition to the analogue Air
circuit.
Green
Amber Only available at up
to 96kHz
Air Soware Control
To enable AIR from Focusrite Control 2 click the Air button. This is the same as pressing the Air
button on the Scarlett Solo hardware.
Air
O
Air Presence selected Air Presence and Drive selected
Instrument/Line Soware Control
To change between instrument and line from Focusrite Control 2 click the Inst button once.
Line
Note
When you switch between Inst and Line, the gain remains at the last level you set.
Instrument
When you click Focusrite Control 2's Air button the last selected Air mode becomes activated.
To change the selected Air mode (Presence or Presence and Drive) click the arrow to show the
dropdown menu.
Air Presence selected
Air Presence and Drive selected
Note
Air Presence & Drive is only available at up to 96kHz, you cannot use it at quad-band
(176.4kHz and 192 kHz) sample rates.
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Output Control
Output controls the signals going to the first two Outputs on the back of your Scarlett, the
outputs you'd most oen connect to speakers.
The Output control sets the level at the outputs from nothing (fully anti-clockwise) to full-scale
output (fully clockwise).
Speaker Output Calibration
On some occasions, you may still hear sound from your monitor speakers when the
Output control is fully anti-clockwise, you can adjust your monitor levels to resolve this:
1. Turn down your interface's Output control and your monitors' level control.
2. Turn the Output control to maximum (or just below maximum).
3. Play sound from your system.
4. Turn up your monitors' level controls until the level is the loudest you need.
You should no longer hear sound when the Output control is at its minimum. You also
have more control over the level with the full range of the Output control. By setting it
at just below the maximum, you also have a little extra volume if you need it, or want to
listen to sounds at a louder-than-normal level.
Direct Monitor Button
Direct Monitor allows you to hear the signals connected to your interface's inputs
without them going through your computer. This means you will hear the inputs without any
latency and without eects.
Direct Monitor Adjustment
From Focusrite Control 2 you can enable and adjust the Direct Monitor mix to balance your inputs
with the Playback channels from your soware.
To enable Direct Monitor click on the Direct tab in Focusrite Control 2 and click the Direct Monitor
soware switch at the top of the tab. The switch lights green and Direct lights green on your
Scarlett Solo's front panel.
Direct Monitor O Direct Monitor on and Analogue 2 reduced in level
To adjust your Direct Monitor mix:
1. Open Focusrite Control 2.
2. Click on the Direct tab.
You might use Direct Monitoring if you're experiencing latency or a delay between making a
sound and hearing it back from your soware, or if you want to hear the signal going into your
Scarlett, instead of aer soware with eects and plugins changing the way it sounds.
When Direct Monitor is o, the Direct icon lights white, to turn on direct monitoring, press the
Direct button once and the Direct icon lights green.
Direct monitor
o. Direct monitor on.
3. Use the Mixer Channels, (faders, Mute and Solo buttons) to adjust the levels for
Analogue 1, Analogue 2 and Playback 1-2.
The final meter under Direct Monitor shows the combined level going to your monitor
and headphone outputs.
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Using the Mixer Channels
Each mixer channel has a number of functions.
1. Mix Channel Name
This shows the name of the mixer input.
2. Fader
The Fader adjusts the level going to your Mix destination. Alt, option ⌥ or double-click
to reset.
The faders have no eect on the sources you are currently recording.
3. Meter
This shows you the channel's level, in dBFS. Green shows a good level and amber
means the level is very high.
You'll see two meters for stereo channels, one for each le and right side.
The meter shows the level post-fader, the fader setting will aect the meter.
4. Mute and Solo
Mute - Click to silence the channel in the Mix. The Mute button lights blue when
enabled. You can Mute multiple channels simultaneously.
Solo - Click to solo the track by silencing all other channels in the Mix. The Solo
button lights yellow when enabled. Enabling Solo on multiple channels silences
any channels without Solo enabled, i.e. you will hear all the Solo'd channels.
If you enable both Mute and Solo, the last clicked option takes priority.
Headphone Output
The headphone output is a 6.35mm (¼”) TRS jack. Many headphones have a 3.5mm TRS jack, to
connect them to your Scarlett Solo you must use a TRS 6.35mm to 3.5mm adaptor.
The control above the headphone output controls the level going to your headphones.
Some higher impedance headphones may be quiet using them with a Scarlett Solo, we
recommend using headphones with an impedance up to 300Ω.
Note
Some headphones and jack adaptors may have TS or TRRS connectors, for example,
if they have a microphone or volume control built into the cable. It's unlikely these
headphones will work properly. If you're having issues, use headphones and a jack
adaptor with TRS jack connectors.
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Back Panel In Depth
This section covers all the features on your Scarlett Solo's back panel, what they do, how you
might use them and how they work in Focusrite Control 2.
USB Connection
USB Port
The USB Type-C port labelled USB is to connect your Scarlett to your computer.U
The connection to your computer provides USB power, two-way audio communication, and a
connection to Focusrite Control 2.
Microphone Input
The 3-pin XLR connector Input is at microphone level and designed for you to connect your
microphones.
You can control your microphone level using the corresponding input gain control on the front
panel. 48V phantom power is also available if you are using a condenser mic, you can enable
phantom power using the front panel 48V button.
The USB Icon Flashes Red
If the USB icon flashes red this means your Scarlett Solo isn't getting enough power.
To resolve this issue:
• Make sure you are using the original USB cable provided with your Scarlett.
• Test a dierent USB port on your computer, make sure you're connecting
directly to your computer and not via a USB hub.
• Make sure your USB ports can provide 900mA of power. The Scarlett Solo
requires 900mA of power to work.
Speaker Outputs
Outputs L and R are line-level outputs to connect your Scarlett Solo to an amplifier or active
monitors. The outputs are balanced 1/4" TRS jack outputs, you can use them with either
unbalanced TS or balanced TRS jack cables.
Your Scarlett Solo's front panel Output dial controls the level sent to Outputs L and R.
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Studio Pack Accessories
CM25 MkIII Microphone
The Scarlett CM25 MkIII microphone with the Scarlett Studio pack is a condenser mic ideal for
recording studio-quality vocals and most acoustic instruments.
You can use the CM25 MKIII to record almost anything, but you’ll love how it sounds on vocals
and guitar thanks to its bright, clear, detailed character.
We've also included a windscreen for the CM25 MKIII to reduce plosives and wind noise when
you're recording vocals or spoken word.
To use the CM25 MkIII with your Scarlett Solo:
1. Turn the input gain for the channel to minimum and turn o 48V.
2. Connect the CM25 MkIII to an XLR input on your Scarlett Solo using the included XLR
to XLR cable.
3. Press the 48V button to turn on 48V phantom power.
4. Set your input gain as per the steps in the section Setting Preamp Input Gain.
We know you’ll want to start recording straight away, so we’ve included a simple (yet clever) mic
stand to make sure you can get up and running even if you don’t have a full set-up for your studio
yet.
We want to ensure we aren’t being wasteful with our product design, so challenged ourselves to
create a mic stand from the packaging we were already using.
We've reused the cardboard sheet inside the box, needed to protect your Scarlett in transit, to
create a mic stand to get you recording straight out of the box.
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SH-450 Headphones
The SH-450 headphones come bundled with the Scarlett Solo Studio Pack. We've designed these
headphones to provide you with professional-quality sound, whether you're recording, mixing,
DJing, or need honest monitor headphones.
The SH-450 headphones have a durable frame that is comfortable to wear for extended time
periods. The closed-back design helps block out outside noise, so you can focus on your
recordings.
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DAW (Recording Soware) Setup
The Scarlett is compatible with any ASIO-supported DAW on Windows and any Core Audiosupported DAW on macOS.
To help you get started, we've put together steps to set up your interface and start recording in
the most common DAWs. If you need any more information, please see the user guide for your
DAW.
If you don't already have a DAW installed on your computer to help get you started, the Scarlett
comes with Ableton Live Lite and a version of Pro Tools. You can access these in Easy Start [5] , or
from your Focusrite account.
Tip
What is a DAW?
DAW stands for 'Digital Audio Workstation' and is the term given to any soware you use
to record arrange or make music.
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Ableton Live
To get set up in Ableton Live follow these steps:
Windows
1. Open Ableton Live on your computer.
2. Click Options > Preferences....
3. Go to the Audio tab on the le-hand side of the Preferences window.
4. Set the Driver Type to ASIO, and Audio Device to Focusrite USB ASIO.
6. Click to highlight each set of Mono and Stereo Inputs to make sure they appear as
selectable in Live.
7. Click OK.
8. Do the same for the Output Config, if you are using multiple outputs from your
Scarlett Solo.
5. Click Input Config.
The next step is to make all the inputs on your device appear as input options in
Ableton.
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9. Close the Preferences Window.
Mac
1. Open Ableton Live on your computer.
2. Click Live in the top menu bar.
3. Click Settings.
4. Go to the Audio tab on the le-hand side of the Preferences window.
5. Set the Audio Input Device and Audio Output Device to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
6. Click Input Config.
The next step is to make all the inputs on your device appear as input options in
Ableton.
7. Click to highlight each set of Mono and Stereo Inputs to make sure they appear as
selectable in Live. You will see up to four channels.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
8. Click OK.
9. Do the same for the Output Config, if you are using multiple outputs from your
Scarlett Solo.
10. Close the Preferences Window.
Getting sound into Ableton
1. Click to highlight an Audio Track in Live's main window. Live had two views (Session
and Arrangement), so depending on which view you are in, please see the following
screenshots.
2. Set the Audio From to Ext. In and the input drop-down to the interface input you are
using, e.g. 1.
3. Set the Monitor to Auto.
This allows you to hear sound coming in from your Scarlett's input.
4. Click the record arm button beneath the track. It lights red when record arm is on.
Send a signal to the input on your Scarlett and you should see the meter in Ableton
move.
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5. When you're ready to record, click the record ⏺ button in Ableton's transport bar.
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Logic and GarageBand
To get set up in Logic Pro and GarageBand follow these steps:
1. Open Logic Pro or GarageBand on your computer (you may be prompted to Choose a
project, you can choose an Empty Project or use a template).
2. Select Audio in the Choose a track type window.
3. Set the Audio Input to Input 1.
If you don't see any inputs, make sure the Device: is set to your Scarlett Solo.
a. Click the arrow to the right of the Device section.
b. In the preferences window, set the Output Device and Input Device to
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
Logic Pro X GarageBand
c. Click Apply (Logic Pro only).
d. Close the Preferences or Settings window.
4. Logic Pro: Tick Input Monitoring and Record Enable .
GarageBand: Tick I want to hear my instrument as I play and record.
This allows you to hear sound coming in from your Scarlett's input.
5. Click Create.
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Logic Pro
GarageBand
6. When you're ready to record, click the record button at the top of Logic/GarageBand.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Reaper
To get set up in Reaper, follow these steps:
Windows
1. Open Reaper on your computer.
2. If you see a pop-up window, asking you to select your audio device driver, click Yes
If you don't see the pop-up, go to Options (top menu) > Preferences > Device
a. Select ASIO in the Audio system: dropdown.
b. Select Focusrite USB ASIO in the ASIO Driver: dropdown.
4. Click OK.
5. Click Track (top menu) > Insert New Track.
6. Click the red record-armed button.
7. Click the Input 1 box to select your input on your Scarlett Solo.
3. In the Audio device settings.
8. When you're ready to record, click the record button in the bottom section of Reaper.
Mac
1. Open Reaper on your computer.
2. If you see a pop-up window, asking you to select your audio device driver, click Yes
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If you don't see the pop-up, go to Options (top menu) > Settings > Device
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
6.
Click the red record-armed button.
7. Click the Input 1 box to select your input on your Scarlett Solo.
3. Choose Scarlett Solo in the Audio Device dropdown menu.
4. Click OK.
5. Click Track (top menu) > Insert New Track.
8. When you're ready to record, click the record button in the bottom section of Reaper.
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Cubase
Windows
1. Open Cubase on your computer.
2. In the top menu bar click Studio > Studio Setup...
Click Audio System on the le-hand side.
3.
4. Set the ASIO Driver to Focusrite USB ASIO.
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Configure the track type as Audio and set the Audio Input to the channel you're using
8.
on your interface.
5. Click OK.
6. Right-click in the MixConsole.
7. Click Add Audio Track.
9. Click Add Track.
10. Click the Record Enable and Monitor buttons (o) on the Cubase channel to
enable the track for recording and so you can hear it using input monitoring
(on).
11. Click Transport Record in Cubase's transport to start recording.
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Mac
1. Open Cubase on your computer.
2. In the top menu bar click Studio > Studio Setup...
3. Change the ASIO Driver to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen.
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
8.
Configure the track type as Audio and set the Audio Input to the channel you're using
on your interface.
4. Click Switch.
5. Click OK.
6. Right-click in the MixConsole.
7. Click Add Track.
9. Click Add Track.
10. Click the Record Enable and Monitor buttons (o) on the Cubase channel to
enable the track for recording and so you can hear it using input monitoring
(on).
11. Click Transport Record in Cubase's transport to start recording.
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Pro Tools
To get set up in Pro Tools, follow these steps:
Mac and Windows
1. Open Pro Tools on your computer.
2. Click Setup > Playback Engine in the top menu bar.
3. Select Focusrite USB ASIO (Windows) or Scarlett Solo 4th Gen in the Playback Engine
dropdown.
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
5. Set the number of tracks you need and set the type to Audio Track.
6. Click Create
7. Click the record arm and input enable buttons on the track.
This allows you to hear sound coming in from your Scarlett's input.
8. Click the main Record Enable button at the top of the Pro Tools window, it turns
red when enabled .
9. Click the Play button to begin recording.
Windows Mac
4. Click Track > New in the top menu bar.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
FL Studio
To get set up in FL Studio follow these steps:
1. Open FL Studio on your computer.
2. Go to Options > Audio Settings.
3. Set the Device to Scarlett Solo 4th Gen (or Focusrite USB ASIO on Windows) in the
Input / output section.
7. Click the main record button in the transport section.
• Choose an option in the What would you like to record? window.
If you're not sure which option to choose, please see FL Studio's help files.
8. When you're ready to record, press the play button in the transport section.
4. Close the Settings window.
5. In the Mixer click on the insert you want to record in to.
6. Set the external input drop-down from (none) to the interface input you are using, e.g.
Input 1 for input mono, or Input 1 - Input 2 for both inputs 1 and 2 in stereo.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Focusrite Control 2
Focusrite Control 2 Settings
Click the ellipsis in Focusrite Control 2's top right corner and click to open the
Settings page.
The settings page has the following options:
Sample Rate (kHz)
Sample rate refers to the samples per second your computer is recording. The higher the value,
the higher the quality; however the higher the value the more hard drive space your recordings
take up.
Oen, using 44.1kHz is more than enough for recording.
Note
Some features, listed below, are not available at quad-band sample rates (176.4 and
192kHz).
• Air Harmonic Drive
• Clip Safe
Clock Source
Analytics
Use this tick box to opt into usage analytics to help us make Focusrite Control 2 better. Please see
our Privacy Policy for more information.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Examples of Use
Connecting Inputs and Outputs
The following diagrams show how to connect a range of inputs and outputs to the Scarlett
Solo. To connect external processors, synthesisers or keyboards see Connecting a Line-Level
Device [33].
1. Connect instruments such as guitars, bass, electro-acoustic guitars and other
instruments with pickups to Input 1 the 6.35mm jack input on the front panel. When
you connect an instrument use a 6.35mm to 6.35mm TS mono jack cable and set the
input to 'instrument' using the Inst button.
2. Connect your headphones (e.g. the Scarlett SH-450 headphones) via a 6.35mm jack to
the headphone output. You must use a 6.35mm TRS jack connector to connect your
headphones. If your headphone jack connector is smaller you need a headphone jack
adaptor.
3. Connect a microphone (e.g. the CM25 MkIII) to Input 2 using an XLR to XLR cable. You
must connect a microphone via an XLR cable, other microphones may not work, or you
may have problems.
4. Connect monitor speakers (aka Monitors) to Outputs R and L (right and le). Use
6.35mm balanced TRS jack cables to connect monitors. If your monitors have dierent
connections please see the monitor's user guide.
5. Connect the Scarlett to your computer using a USB cable.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Connecting a Line-Level Device
The following diagram shows how to connect a line-level device to the line input on the Scarlett
Solo.
Standalone Mode
The Scarlett Solo has a standalone mode; this mode allows your interface to pass audio when it's
not connected to a computer. This can be useful for:
• Increasing the number of preamps on another interface or mixer that only has line-level
inputs le.
• To use your studio setup without having your computer turned on or plugged in, for
example, to use your guitar through your speakers, or any electronic music equipment
connected.
To setup Standalone mode:
1. Connect your Scarlett's power socket to mains power.
This can be a USB wall plug, similar to what you may use to charge your phone.
2. Connect your inputs and outputs to your interface as usual (see Examples of Use).
3. Turn on Direct Monitor to make sure the input signals are being sent to the outputs
(headphones and line).
1. Connect line-level devices such as synthesisers, keyboards or mic preamps to input 1
using a 6.35mm jack input on the front panel. When you connect a line-level device use
a 6.35mm to 6.35mm TRS jack cable but note the input is mono. Turn o Inst when you
connect line-level devices to the Scarlett Solo.
Loopback
With Loopback, you can capture computer audio and record it into your recording soware on
separate channels alongside your connected mics or instruments.
To use Loopback select inputs channels 3-4 in your DAW soware.
Loopback works by 'looping back' audio outputs from your computer to virtual input channels
within your Scarlett. Any computer audio can be recorded into a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).
Important
When you're using Loopback, mute the channels in your recording soware so you
don't cause a feedback loop.
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Updating
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Updating Focusrite Control 2
We update Focusrite Control 2 occasionally with new features and improvements to make sure
you are getting the most from your Scarlett Solo.
There are two ways to make sure you have the latest Focusrite Control 2 version:
1. Use the updater in Focusrite Control 2:
1. Open Focusrite Control 2.
2. There are two options in the Focusrite Control 2.
a. If an update is available, a dialogue window automatically
appears. Click Install Update to start the update.
b. To check you are using the latest version, click the ellipses in
Focusrite Control 2's top right corner and click Check for updates.
3. Click Install and Relaunch in the prompt that appears aer the update has
been downloaded.
2. Install Focusrite Control 2 from our Downloads page:
1. Go to the Focusrite downloads website:
focusrite.com/downloads
2. Find your Scarlett on the Downloads website.
3. Download Focusrite Control 2 for your operating system (Windows or Mac).
4. Open the Downloads folder on your computer and double-click the
Focusrite Control 2 installer.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Focusrite Control 2.
6. If it’s not already, connect your Scarlett interface to your computer with the
USB cable.
7. Open Focusrite Control 2 and it detects your Scarlett automatically.
Focusrite Control 2 updates, the following update screen shows before the soware
resets.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Updating your Scarlett
We occasionally update your Scarlett Solo's firmware with new features and improvements, to
make sure you are getting the most from your Scarlett. Your Scarlett Solo is updated through
Focusrite Control 2.
To update your Scarlett:
1. Open Focusrite Control 2.
If there is an update available, Focusrite Control 2 tells you when you open it.
Click Update Scarlett Solo.
2.
Focusrite Control 2 starts the update, do not disconnect your Scarlett Solo while the
update is in progress.
Your Scarlett Solo is now up to date and you can continue to use it as normal.
3. Click Continue aer the update has finished.
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Specifications
Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
These specifications allow you to compare your Scarlett Solo with other devices and make sure
they’ll work together. If you’re not familiar with these specifications, don’t worry you don’t need
to know this information to use your Scarlett Solo with most devices
Performance Specifications
Where possible we measure all performance figures following AES17.
Supported Sample Rates 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz
Bit Depth 24-bit
Microphone Inputs
Frequency Response 20Hz - 20kHz ± 0.06dB
Dynamic Range (A-weighted) 113dB
THD+N -100dB (-1dBFS @ minimum gain)
Noise EIN (A-Weighted) -127dBu (A-Weighted)
Maximum Input Level (at minimum gain) 9.5 dBu
Gain Range 57dB
Input Impedance 3kΩ
Line Inputs
Frequency Response 20 - 20kHz ± 0.05dB
Dynamic Range (A-weighted) 113dB
THD+N -100dB (Minimum @ Minimum Gain)
Maximum Input Level (at minimum gain) 22dBu
Gain Range 57dB
Input Impedance 60kΩ
Line Outputs 1 and 2 (balanced)
THD+N
Outputs 1-2
Output impedance 200Ω
Headphone Outputs
Frequency Response 20-20kHz ± 0.1dB @ 33Ω / 300Ω
Dynamic Range (A-weighted) 112dB @ 33Ω
115dB @ 300Ω
Maximum Output Level 2.5dBu into 33Ω
10dBu into 300Ω
Maximum Output Power 2.5dBu into 33Ω
10dBu into 300Ω
THD+N -97dB @ 33Ω (Minimum)
-102dB @ 300Ω (Minimum)
Output impedance 50Ω
-109dB
Instrument Inputs
Frequency Response 20 - 20kHz ± 0.15dB
Dynamic Range (A-weighted) 112dB
THD+N -80dB (Minimum @ 8dB Gain)
Maximum Input Level (at minimum gain) 12dBu
Gain Range 57dB
Input Impedance 1MΩ
Line Outputs 1 and 2 (balanced)
Frequency Response 20 - 20kHz ±0.02dB
Dynamic Range (A-weighted) 120dB
Maximum Output Level 16 dBu
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Physical and Electrical Characteristics
Analogue Inputs
Connectors One back panel Neutrik XLR input
One front panel 6.35mm (1/4") jack input
Phantom Power (48v) Front panel 48V (phantom power) button or switch in soware
Line/Instrument switching Front panel Inst button or switch in soware
AIR function Front panel Air button or switch in soware
Analogue Outputs
Balanced Outputs Two rear-panel 6.35mm (1.4") TRS jack sockets
Headphone Output Front panel stereo 6.35mm (1.4") TRS jack socket
Main Output Level Control Front panel analogue control
Headphones Level Control Front panel analogue control
Other I/O
USB 900mA
One USB 2.0 Type-C connector for power and data
Front Panel Indicators
48V White/Green 48V LED (depending on the selected channel)
Inst White/Green Inst LED (depending on the selected channel)
Air Mode White/Green Air LED (depending on the selected channel)
USB
Direct Monitor White/Green Direct LED
Green USB LED
Solo Channel Order
Input Channels
Input Channel
1 Instrument/Line Input
2 Microphone Input
3 Loopback 1
4 Loopback 2
Output Channels
Output Channel
1 Output Le (Headphones Le)
2 Output Right (Headphones Right)
Note
Outputs 1 and 2 share the same feed as the Headphone Output. Whatever signal is
present at the line outputs you will also hear from the headphone output.
Weight and Dimensions
Weight 382g (0.84lbs)
Height 46.5mm (1.83")
Width 143mm (5.63")
Depth 96mm (3.78")
Environmental
Operating Temperature 40°C / 104°F Maximum ambient operating temperature
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
CM25 Mk III Microphone Specifications
Capsule
Element Electret Condenser
Capsule Diameter 20mm
Polar Pattern Unidirectional (cardioid)
Performance and Electrical Characteristics
Sensitivity -36dB ±2dB (0dB = 1V/Pa @ 1kHz)
Frequency Response 30Hz - 18kHz
Impedance 100Ω ±30% (@ 1kHz)
Equivalent Noise Level 16dBA (A-weighted IEC651)
S/N Ratio 74dB
Power Requirement 48V phantom power
Current 3mA
Frequency Response Chart
Polar Pattern Chart
Microphone polar pattern charts show how a microphone picks up sound from dierent
directions and at dierent frequencies. There are several polar pattern types, the CM25 MkIII
has a cardioid pattern. This heart-shaped pattern picks up sound mainly from the front (0º) while
rejecting sound from the sides (270º and 90º) and rear (180º). This is useful for recording while
minimizing background noise.
Microphone frequency response charts show how a microphone captures dierent frequencies.
A flat chart means the microphone captures all frequencies equally, charts with peaks or dips
mean the microphone is more or less sensitive to some frequencies. We've designed the CM25
MkIII as an all-around microphone but it works especially well for vocals and acoustic instrument
recording.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Dimensions
SH-450 Headphones Specifications
Specifications
Type Closed-back
Ear pad Contact Circumaural (over-ear)
Impedance 32Ω
Sensitivity 96dB ±3
Frequency Response 15Hz - 30kHz
Power Rating 350mW
Maximum Power 1800mW
Cable Length ≈3m
Connector 3.5mm TRS jack plug
Screw-on 3.5mm to 6.35mm adaptor included
Weight 300g (including adaptor)
Dimensions
Physical Characteristics
Mounting 5/8" mic clip with 3/8" thread adaptor included
Net Weight 388g without mic clip
496g with mic clip
Dimensions Diameter: 49.5mm (1.95")
Length: 158mm (6.22")
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Notices
Troubleshooting
For all troubleshooting queries, please visit the Focusrite Help Centre at support.focusrite.com.
Copyright & Legal Notices
Focusrite is a registered trademark and Scarlett is a trademark of Focusrite Group PLC.
All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.
2023 © Focusrite Audio Engineering Limited. All rights reserved.
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Scarlett Solo 4th Gen Studio Pack User Guide
Credits
Focusrite would like to thank the following Scarlett 4th Gen team members for their hard work in
bringing you this product:
Aarron Beveridge, Adam Watson, Adrian Dyer, Adrien Fauconnet, Alex Middleton-Dalby, Alice
Rizzo, Alistair Smith, Andy Normington, Andy Poole, Andy West, Arne Gödeke, Bailey Dayson,
Bamber Haworth, Bash Ahmed, Ben Bates, Ben Cochrane, Ben Dandy, Benjamin Dunn, Bran
Searle, Callum Denton, Carey Chen, Cerys Williams, Chris Graves, Dan Clarke, Dan Stephens,
Dan Weston, Daniel Hughley, Daniel Johnson, Danny Nugent, Dave Curtis, David Marston, Derek
Orr, Ed Fry, Ed Reason, Eddie Judd, Ellen Dawes, Emma Davies, Flavia Ferreira, Greg Westall,
Greg Zielinski, Guillem Allepuz, Hannah Williams, Harry Morley, Ian Hadaway, Isaac Harding,
Jack Cole, Jake Wignall, James Hallowell, James Otter, Jason Cheung, Jed Fulwell, Jerome Noel,
Jesse Mancia, Joe Crook, Joe Deller, Josh Wilkinson, Joe Munday, Joe Noel, Jon Jannaway, Julia
Laeger, Kai Van Dongen, Keith Burton, Kiara Holm, Kieran Rigby, Krischa Tobias, Lars Henning,
Laurence Clarke, Loz Jackson, Luke Piotrak, Luke Mason, Marc Smith, Mark Greenwood, Martin
Dewhirst, Martin Haynes, Mary Browning, Massimo Bottaro, Matt Morton, Matt Richardson, Max
Bailey, Michalis Fragkiadakis, Mick Gilbert, Mike Richardson, Nicholas Howlett, Nick Lyon, Nick
Thomson, Oliver Tapley, Olly Stephenson, Paul Chana, Paul Shulebotham, Pete Carss, Pierre
Ruiz, Richard Carvalho, Richard Walters, Robert Blaauboer, Robert Mitsakov, Ross Chisholm, Sam
Lewis, Samuel Price, Sandor Zsuga, Sebastian Heinz, Simon Burges, Stefan Archer, Stefan Elmes,
Steve Bush, Stratis Sofianos, Taavi Bonny, Taren Gopinathan, Tom Carter, Tom Haines, Tony Pow,
Valeria Cirillo, Will Hoult, Will Munn, Will Thomas, Vidur Dahiya, Wade Dawson, Zih-Syuan Yang.
Authored by Ed Fry.
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