Head-to-head comparison
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) vs Heil PR40
Two of the equipment tools podcasters reach for. Here's how they differ on pricing, features, audience, and the trade-offs that actually matter day-to-day.
At a glance
The honest trade-offs
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)
Pros
- 69dB clean preamp gain (handles SM7B better)
- Auto Gain sets levels automatically
- Huge software bundle (Ableton, plugins)
Watch-outs
- Only two inputs — no round-tables
- No DSP routing
- USB-C only (no Thunderbolt)
Heil PR40
Pros
- Wider frequency response than typical dynamic
- Strong rear noise rejection
- Warm low end, articulate mids
Watch-outs
- Shock mount (PRSM) sold separately
- Less common than SM7B
- Needs clean preamp gain
Which one should you pick?
Pick Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) if
You’re building around . The Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen is the default 2-input USB interface for podcasters. Auto Gain feature sets levels for you, 69dB of clean preamp gain (up from 57dB on previous gens), and the included software bundle is real.
Pick Heil PR40 if
You’re building around . The Heil PR40 is a wider-response dynamic than typical, with rear noise rejection that punches above its price. Currently around $339-$379.
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Frequently asked
What does Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) do better than Heil PR40?
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen)'s standout is "69dB clean preamp gain (handles SM7B better)". Heil PR40 doesn't make that promise — it leans into "Wider frequency response than typical dynamic" instead. If the first sentence describes your workflow, pick Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen); if the second does, pick Heil PR40.
What are the trade-offs?
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen): only two inputs — no round-tables. Heil PR40: shock mount (prsm) sold separately. Whether either matters depends entirely on what you actually need — neither is a deal-breaker by itself.
Can I use Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) and Heil PR40 together?
Both are equipment tools so most teams pick one. Some workflows do combine them — for example, using Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) for one show or episode type and Heil PR40 for another. Worth trying both free tiers before committing.