User guide

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.
The Scarlett 18i20, in conjunction with Scarlett MixControl, allows “Direct Monitoring”, which
overcomes this problem. You can route your input signals directly to the Scarlett 18i20’s headphone
and line outputs. This enables the musicians to hear themselves with ultra-low latency – i.e.,
effectively in “real time” – along with the computer playback. The input signals to the computer are
not affected in any way by this setting.
In the example, each of the band members is receiving his/her own monitor mix, because they each
have their “own” Scarlett 18i20 output. Scarlett MixControl lets you define up to eight separate mixes,
and these mixes may include previously recorded DAW tracks as well the current input signals.
Guitar Bass
KickKeyboards
Direct Monitoring
set up in
Mix Control Software
SnareOverheads Vocals
Headphones
(Guitar)
Headphones (Keyboards) Headphones (Drums) Headphones (Vocals)
Headphones
(Bass)
Line to
Headphone
Converter
Line to
Headphone
Converter
Line to
Headphone
Converter
25SL MkII
When using Direct Monitoring, ensure that your DAW software is not set to route any inputs (what you
are currently recording) to any outputs. If it is, the musicians will hear themselves “twice”, with one
signal audibly delayed as an echo.