The Scarlett 2i2 generation differences are huge. Apart from aesthetic upgrades, there have been changes to the hardware and software used to run Scarlett interfaces, with things like the pre-amps, sample rate, and inputs being upgraded massively. Additionally, support for USB C appears on the 3rd Gen model. The newer generations record instruments at a higher quality and playback audio with higher fidelity. This is important in a studio scenario, and it's advised you get a newer generation Scarlett.