Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 2x2 USB Audio Interface with Microphone and Headphones (3rd Generation) - Manual (Page 15)

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.
Scarlett Solo is fitted with a “Direct Monitoring” option, which overcomes this problem. Setting the
front panel DIRECT MONITOR switch to ON will route your input signals directly to Scarlett Solo’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. Your inputs will be summed to mono, so both mic
and instrument will appear in the centre of the stereo image. Note that the input signals to your
computer are not affected in any way by the use of Direct Monitor.
When Direct Monitoring is set to ON, ensure your recording 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.
Headphone monitoring
The Scarlett Solo 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 Scarlett
Solo’s front panel (indicated by a symbol). The Scarlett Solo’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
Headphones will let you hear both what you are recording - your current input signal(s), plus any
tracks you’ve already recorded in your computer. Note: Set the front panel DIRECT MONITOR switch
to ON when recording. The pre-recorded tracks will be heard in stereo, and the current input signals
in mono – central in the stereo image. If you are using both the mic and instrument inputs, the
two inputs will be summed in mono. The volume in the headphones can be adjusted by the rotary
MONITOR control.
Please be aware headphones are capable of generating 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.