Using a Focusrite Scarlett Solo (single-XLR) with Wispr Flow on Mac

Last updated: August 2, 2026

Platform: macOS (Wispr Flow desktop). Applies to Focusrite Scarlett Solo interfaces where the microphone connects to the XLR jack on Input 2.

If your Scarlett Solo microphone is detected by Wispr Flow but no audio comes through (the live volume indicator stays flat), it is almost always a channel-routing issue. Wispr Flow listens to the first input channel from your audio device. On single-XLR Scarlett Solo models, the XLR microphone jack maps to the interface's second channel, so Flow stays silent even though other apps (Zoom, Voice Memos) pick you up, because those apps listen to both channels at once.

The fix is to enable Focusrite's Combine Input 1 and Input 2 setting, which routes your XLR mic into the first channel that Flow can hear. No macOS Aggregate Device is needed.

Fastest method: the Direct button

  1. Connect the Scarlett Solo to your Mac.

  2. Press and hold the Direct button on the front of the Scarlett for about 3 seconds.

  3. Release it when the 1 and 2 channel LEDs both turn green. This enables Combine Input 1 and Input 2.

  4. Quit and reopen Wispr Flow.

  5. In Flow, go to Settings → General → Microphone → Change and select your Scarlett Solo.

Speak into the mic. The live volume indicator next to your selected microphone should now move.

Alternative: Focusrite Control 2

  1. Open Focusrite Control 2.

  2. Open the three-dot menu in the upper-right corner and choose Preferences.

  3. Select the Device tab.

  4. Enable Combine Input 1 and Input 2.

  5. Restart Wispr Flow and reselect the Scarlett as your microphone.

If the Combine option is missing

Install or update Focusrite Control 2, connect the Solo, and accept any offered firmware update. Focusrite Control 2 handles the Solo's firmware updates, and this feature may only appear after the firmware is up to date. Afterward, retry the 3-second Direct button method above.

Recording in a DAW? Turn Combine Input 1 and Input 2 back off when using Logic, Ableton, GarageBand, or another DAW where you want the microphone and instrument recorded as independent inputs.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my mic work in other apps but not in Wispr Flow?

Wispr Flow reads the first input channel from your audio device. Apps like Zoom and Voice Memos listen to both channels at once, so they hear your XLR mic on Input 2 either way. Combining the inputs sends your mic into the first channel so Flow can hear it too.

Do I need to create a macOS Aggregate Device?

No. An Aggregate Device preserves the same channel order and will not reroute the mic. Use the Combine Input 1 and Input 2 setting instead.

Is there another quick workaround?

Yes. A USB microphone or a headset routes as a single channel and works with Flow right away, so that is the quickest path if you would rather not adjust the interface settings.