In this article, we’ll compare the Yamaha AG06 audio mixer and the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface. We’ll tell you which one we think is best for home recording, live streaming, and live events to help you decide which is right for you.
Quick Answer: The Yamaha AG06 is our pick for home recording, live streaming, and live events; it’s simply more flexible than the Scarlett 2i2. A lack of desk space or the need to use two condenser microphones are the only reasons we would consider the 2i2 over the AG06.
- Yamaha AG06 Audio Mixer: https://currentprice.io/yamaha_ag06
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Phantom Power
Both units can supply the 48 V of phantom power needed to power condenser microphones. The Scarlett 2i2 has phantom power on both XLR inputs, while the AG06 only has it on one.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – USB Specs
Both devices meet the current standard for USB connectivity with a bit depth of 24 and sample rates of up to 192 kHz.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Preamp Quality
- Yamaha AG06
Gain: 60 dB to 64dB
EIN (noise) rating:-128
Yamaha doesn’t publish the gain specs for the AG06 but based on our experience, we would say its preamps are comparable to the Yamaha MG series. - Scarlett 2i2
Gain: 56 dB
EIN rating: -128
The AG06 offers better preamps with a higher level of gain while maintaining the same amount of noise. However, this is a moot point if you need to run 2 condenser mics as only the Scarlett can do this.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Power
Both of these units are USB bus-powered, but the Yamaha AG06 also has a second power input. Why is that important? Devices like an iPad can’t power either of these units via USB.
The second power input allows you to connect a USB battery pack to facilitate mobile recording away from power outlets using an iPad.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – EQ & Effects
- Yamaha AG06
Built-in compression, EQ, reverb, and amp simulator with defaults which are adjusted using supporting software. - Scarlett 2i2
AIR mode adds an upper-frequency boost, but the Scarlett 2i2 otherwise relies on your recording software for effects and compression.
Yamaha AG06 Overview
- 2 x XLR-1/4” combi inputs
– Phantom power and 26 dB pad on channel 1
– Hi-Z and 26dB pad on channel 2 - Compressor, effects, and EQ
– Compression, EQ, and reverb on channel 1
– Amp sim and reverb on channel 2
– Default settings can be changed via the supporting Yamaha app. - Additional line-level inputs
– Stereo pair 1/4”
– Stereo pair RCA
– Headset mic 1/8” (overrides channel 1)
– 1/8” aux - USB to PC modes
– Dry CH 1-2 causes the mixer to act like an audio interface, only sending the raw audio from channels 1 and 2 separately to the computer. Ideal for multi-track recording.
– Input mix sends the computer a stereo mix of all the inputs coming into the mixer, ideal for recording a live set.
– Loopback mode is great for live streaming as it allows you to send audio from the computer into the mixer (game noise), mix it with your other audio sources, and send this back to broadcasting software on your computer. - Outputs
– Stereo pair 1/4” (main)
– Stereo pair 1/4” (monitor)
– 1/4” headphones
– 1/8” headphones (overrides 1/4”)
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Overview
- 2 x XLR-1/4” combi inputs
– Phantom power on both inputs
– Mic/Line/Instrument level - AIR mode
– Upper-frequency boost - Direct monitor button
– Toggles between having each input channel in both ears, or each channel panned (good for stereo pair inputs) - Outputs
– Stereo pair 1/4”
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Home Recording Recommendation
We recommend the Yamaha AG06 for a few reasons. The AG06 inputs offer more gain for the same noise, giving you more power for demanding microphones like the Shure SM7B.
The additional physical controls available on the AG06, coupled with the USB connectivity options, make it a lot more functional and flexible than the Scarlett 2i2.
The only reasons to pick the Scarlett 2i2 over the AG06 are that you’ve fallen in love with the AIR mode, need to record with 2 condenser mics, or don’t have the space for the AG06.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Live Streaming Recommendation
We recommend the Yamaha AG06 as it offers live streamers better value for money. You generally only need to use 1 microphone, so the phantom power limitations of the AG06 aren’t an issue.
The ability to add effects, compression, and EQ from the mixer makes it more intuitive and accessible for live situations. At the same time, the additional inputs give you more options to play with.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Live Events Recommendation
We recommend the Yamaha AG06 for many of the reasons we’ve already covered above. The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is simply not built for live events, so it was never going to compete with the AG06 in this area.
You need the physical controls found on the AG06 to see your settings at a glance and make any adjustments quickly.
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 – Comparing Specs
Yamaha AG06 | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 | |
Channels | 6 (2 x mono, 2 x stereo + 1 x aux) | 2 |
Computer Connectivity | USB (2 in / 2 out) | USB (2 in / 2 out) |
A/D Resolution | 24-bit/192kHz | 24-bit/192kHz |
Gain Range | 60-64 dB (specs not published) | 56 dB |
EIN (dBu A-Weighted) | -128 | -128 |
Mic Inputs | 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo | 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo |
Phantom Power | Yes (1ch) | Yes (2ch) |
Line Inputs | 2 x 1/4”, 2 x RCA, 1 x 1/8” stereo aux | 2 x XLR-1/4″ combo |
Main Outputs | 2 x 1/4” (L/R) | 2 x 1/4″ TRS balanced |
Aux Sends | No | No |
Headphones | 1 x 1/4”, 1 x 1/8” | 1 x 1/4″ |
USB | 1 x Type B | 1 x Type C |
EQ Bands | Digital via software (2ch) | No |
Signal Processing | Compressor (1ch) Amp Sim (1ch) | Air mode |
Effects | SPX Reverb | No |
Power | 5V DC (USB bus or external) | USB bus-powered |
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 Pricing
- Yamaha AG06 Audio Mixer: https://currentprice.io/yamaha_ag06
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
- Electro-Voice RE20 Microphone: https://currentprice.io/re20-black
- 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
Yamaha AG06 vs. Scarlett 2i2 Comparison Topics
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:28 – Pricing & Specs
- 0:46 – Comparing Specs
- 0:57 – Phantom Power
- 1:21 – USB Specs
- 1:40 – Preamp Quality (Gain & Noise)
- 2:53 – Power
- 3:50 – EQ & Effects
- 4:35 – Yamaha AG06 Overview
- 7:37 – Scarlett 2i2 Overview
- 8:32 – Home Recording
- 9:48 – Live Streaming
- 10:56 – Live Events
- 11:34 – Overall Comparison
- 12:35 – Final Thoughts
