In this article, we’ll look at the two ways you can turn off the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface. We’ll discuss when you might want to use each method and share our thoughts on whether you need to worry about turning it off when not in use.
Quick Answer: The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface will power on and off automatically as you turn your computer on and off. Unplugging the USB cable will also power down the device, but we don’t feel it’s necessary as we’ve seen no evidence of prolonged use causing damage.
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
How Do You Know If The Scarlett 2i2 Is Turned On?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface doesn’t have a power switch or even its own power cable, so how do you know if it’s turned on? A green USB indicator will light up on the front of the device when the interface is turned on.
The Scarlett 2i2 will automatically turn on any time it’s connected to a computer that is powered up. So if it’s connected, you can assume it’s on; there’s nothing else you need to do.
Method 1: Turn Off The Computer
Just as the Scarlett 2i2 automatically powers up when your computer is turned on, the audio interface will turn off when you shut down your computer. This is our favorite method for powering down the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2; we think it’s also the most obvious way to go about it.
Are we worried about having the Scarlett 2i2 powered on the entire time we’re using our computer? Not really; just because we’re not using it to record doesn’t mean it isn’t still being used to connect studio monitors to a computer. It’s designed for this everyday kind of use.
Method 2: Unplug The USB Cable
If you really want to be proactive about turning your Scarlett 2i2 audio interface off, you can simply unplug the USB cable from the back of the device.
We’d only consider doing this when we don’t have speakers or headphones connected to our computer, and we’re not planning to do a lot of recording any time soon. In that case, we’d also be looking to pack the 2i2 away until it was needed again.
Trying to find the best gear for your specific needs? Check out our series of audio equipment buying guides for our live streaming, podcasting, video conferencing, and music production recommendations.
Is It Bad To Leave The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Turned On?
We can fully understand the thought process of those who think that leaving the Scarlett 2i2 turned on will contribute to eventually wearing it down. However, we’ve seen no evidence of that being true.
We know plenty of people who use this interface on a daily basis just for their studio monitors, and we’ve never heard them complain about prolonged use reducing the device’s lifespan. If you’re still worried, just disconnect the USB cable until you need to use it again.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Pricing & Specs
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
- Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro Headphones: https://currentprice.io/beyer_dt_990
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- TRS Cable: https://currentprice.io/trs_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1 Boom Arm: https://currentprice.io/boom_arm
