The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is very reliable and is considered the standard for home studio interfaces. Due to this, it is widely used by most people across the globe. The good news is, Focusrite as a brand continues to improve the Scarlett 2i2 models with each new generation.
However, other brands in the industry are threatening to dethrone the Scarlett 2i2. One such brand is Arturia, with its Minifuse 2 audio interface. It has been projected by the media that the Minifuse 2 audio interface by Arturia is not far behind the Scarlett 2i2 in terms of reliability and performance.
Due to the media hype, the Arturia Minifuse 2 is quickly becoming another popular interface of choice in the audio industry.
However, how do these two audio interfaces truly fare when stacked against each other? Which interface do you think will be a better fit for your music interests? Let’s find out!
Table of Contents
Specifications
| Attribute | Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 | Arturia Minifuse 2 |
| Line Input | 2 x XLR – ¼” combo (mic/line/Hi-Z) | 2 x XLR – ¼” combo (mic/line) |
| Line Output | 2 x ¼” TRS | 2 x ¼” TRS |
| Headphone Output | 1 x ¼” | 1 x ¼” |
| MIDI | No | Yes (IN/OUT) |
| USB | 1 x Type USB-C | 1 x USB-C, 1 x Type A |
| Display | No | No |
| Sample Rate | 192 kHz/24-Bit | 192 kHz/24-Bit |
| Direct Monitor Switch | Yes | Yes |
| Solo/Mute | No | No |
| Phantom Power | Yes | Yes (two channels) |
| Power | USB Bus Power | USB Bus Power |
| Connection Type | USB 2.0 Type-C | USB 2.0 Type-C |
| Dimension (W x D x H) | (6.89 x 3.89 x 1.87)” | (7.9 x 3.9 x 1.65) |
| Weight | 1.0 lb | 1.1 lbs |
Similarities Between the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and Arturia Minifuse 2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and the Arturia Minifuse 2 are nearly identical when it comes to performance and functionality. This is because, they sound similar and have the same frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20kHz, which enables them to accurately process sound frequencies across the audible spectrum.
In addition to the frequency response range, these two audio interfaces are USB Bus powered and have the same number of inputs and outputs as well. Both devices come with two line inputs and outputs.
They also come with a headphone output that allows you to listen to audio through your headset. In addition, they both offer phantom power capabilities, hence capable of driving condenser microphones.
What Makes These Interfaces Different?
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (on Amazon) and the Arturia Minifuse 2 (also on Amazon) are two of the best small audio interfaces on the market. That is why they are both excellent choices for a home studio. However, what makes them different?
One of the key things to look out for in any audio device is its durability. When it comes to durability, the Scarlett 2i2 is known to be more robust and durable than the Minifuse 2.
This is because the Scarlett 2i2 is made from high-quality materials. Due to this, it is more reliable and solid than the Minifuse 2.
The most important feature that the Minifuse 2 possesses that the Scarlett 2i2 does not have is a true passthrough USB port with USB hub functionality. This Minifuse USB Hub is suitable for connecting equipment such as USB keyboards, MIDI controllers, iLok, and other portable drives.
What this means is that if your computer only has one USB port, you can use the Minifuse 2 as a hub that enables you to plug in a secondary USB device through the interface.
Another crucial difference between the Minifuse 2 and the 2i2 are their impedance figures. The Minifuse 2 has a significantly lower overall impedance on all its inputs and outputs. This lower impedance means that the Minifuse 2 can be used with less powerful hardware and microphones.
Unfortunately, this low impedance can also result in a lower-quality signal if used with poor-quality microphones. However, this is not usually an issue for most users. Unlike the Minifuse 2, the Scarlett 2i2 has a higher impedance.
The fact that the 2i2 has a relatively higher impedance means; it works best with high-powered hardware. It also produces a more consistent and reliable overall signal, as it requires that the hardware used with the interface meets certain standards to function well.
Another point is, the Minifuse 2 has an audio loop feature that allows the user to hear their audio while streaming without first running the audio through a DAW. It also has an output level meter and a monitor blend control that allows the user to blend the audio that they hear between the dry signal and the mixed signal. Unfortunately, the Scarlett 2i2 lacks these functionalities.
To add to all these differences, the Scarlett 2i2 has a slightly flatter tone as compared to the Minifuse 2 and comes in only one color. The Scarlett 2i2 model spots a higher profile and is only available in a distinct black and red colorway.
On the other hand, the Minifuse 2 is available in either black or white and has a very sleek and stealthy profile.
To end it all, generally, the Arturia Minifuse 2 costs a little less than the Scarlett 2i2, even though the Scarlett 2i2 has fewer overall features.
Which Interface Is Better?
At this point, we have clearly established that the Scarlett 2i2 and the Minifuse 2 are excellent interfaces and function well in home studios. Therefore, deciding between the two can be quite challenging for a number of people.
However, everyone’s choice will ultimately boil down to what they desire most in their audio interfaces.
The Scarlett 2i2 has proven to be the more reliable and sturdier unit overall. Thus it stands head and shoulders above the Minifuse 2 audio interface in this area. This interface has been proven to be reliable, sturdy, and easy to use. That is why it has earned a good reputation over its years of service.
The Scarlett 2i2 produces a very consistent audio tone as well. Additionally, this interface is very easy to use and works well with all computers, and has everything you need to put together a home studio. It is not surprising then that the 2i2 interface has been the home interface of choice for so long.
Comparatively, the Minifuse 2 is a less reliable unit due to the quality of materials used in its manufacture. It is not surprising then that, some users have raised complaints about having malfunctioning issues with their Minifuse setups.
That notwithstanding, the reality is that, this Minifuse 2 interface has better features and offers more functionality than the Scarlett 2i2. This Minifuse 2 interface has more built-in features than the 2i2 yet is less expensive as well.
Due to these the Minifuse 2 is preferred by those who look out for more built-in features in their audio interfaces.
Even though the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface has fewer features than the Minifuse 2, I believe it is still the best of the two and you should choose it for your setup. My point of view is based on the fact that I value reliability and simplicity over extra features.
Therefore, if you value reliability and ease of use more than extra features, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (on Amazon) is indeed the best interface for you.
However, if you want extra features and functionality at the expense of some minor inconveniences with getting the interface to work well whiles starting out, then you can go in for the Arturia Minifuse 2 (on Amazon).
Conclusion
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and the Arturia Minifuse 2 are among the best audio interfaces ideal for small home studios. I have provided you with relevant information on their features, reliability, and many more to help you determine which interface suits your needs better.
Deciding which is best for you depends on your specific needs. Since the best interface for you is the interface that suits your needs better, with this information at your disposal, take your time and carefully consider which interface is best for you.
Hello, I’m Elijah. A writer on Geek Musician, based in Ghana-West Africa. I am a writer with a passion for research and reading. I usually spend my free time playing chess or watching movies. For more info, check out my about me page. Or read more of my articles here.