Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 clipping

Active bass? The 2i2 is known to do that. You could use a direct box to knock the signal down a bit. Or maybe find a cheap -10dB passive attenuator. The 2i4 would of course also solve the problem as you mention. I bought the 2i4 instead of the 2i2 partly for this very reason. HTH

Edit: Or if you're handy with a soldering iron, you can make your own passive attenuator cable. It's just a resistor in series with the 1/4" tip connection. I think the input impedence on the 2i2 is 2K ohms.

 

Same issue here. Even worse when recording a guitar (clips with Gain set to zero).

I use a compressor/preamp/DI as workaround. In the long run I'll try to get another Interface.

 

When my 212 input is clipping, it's usually because the "line/inst" switch is in the wrong position. I really like this box except that the switch is nearly impossible to see without a flashlight. It's directly under the input gain knob which creates a shadow on the switch.

 

I went with the 2i4 for this very reason. 2i2 is really more for DJs or keys, where the signals are not as dynamic, IMO.

 

Another vote for the 2i4. It delivers very good results and having the Pad is extremely useful and makes the audio interface much more adaptable. All active basses I have used tend to have a very hot signal and the same is true for some DI's (e.g. Darkglass B7K).

 

I use a DI and/or a VT Bass pedal and a little compression in front of the 2i2 input. Also, note carefully the position of the line/inst switch as Freightshaker stated above. You want "inst" for a bass. I am using a passive Jazz or an active Sadowsky. Results are good.

 

I use a 2i4. The pad is absolutely necessary for tracking active basses.