Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface (3rd Generation) - Manual (Page 20)

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Using the ADAT connection
In addition to the eight analogue inputs, the Scarlett 18i8 has an optical ADAT input port which can
provide an additional eight audio inputs at 44.1/48 kHz sample rate or four at 88.2/96 kHz. (Note
that the optical ADAT input port does not support 176.4/192 kHz sample rates.) Using a separate
8-channel microphone preamplifier equipped with an ADAT output – such as the Focusrite Scarlett
OctoPre – provides a simple and excellent method of expanding the Scarlett 18i8’s input capability.
Computer
running DAW
and Focusrite Control
Inputs 1 & 2 on front panel
Optical ADAT connection (TOSLINK)
Inputs 1 to 4 on front panel
Up to 16 Mic/Line Sour
ce
s
Scarlett Octopre
8ch Mic Amp
The Scarlett OctoPre’s ADAT output is connected to the Scarlett 18i8’s ADAT input with a single
TOSLINK optical cable. To synchronise the devices, set the clock source of the Scarlett OctoPre to
Internal and that of the Scarlett 18i8 (via Focusrite Control) to ADAT .
TIP: When interconnecting two digital devices by any method, always ensure that both are set
to the same sample rate.
The additional inputs realised by use of the ADAT port may be routed using Focusrite Control in
exactly the same manner as the other inputs. The additional inputs can form part of any musician’s
headphone mix, as required.