I have had issues before with the 2i2 on Linux, where it seemed that no matter the setting in software, the hardware would always sample at a set 44.1kHz. So, with software thinking it was sampling at one rate, the playback would always be at the wrong speed. Doesnt sound like the the same as your issue of distorted audio, but yes, clearly there is something lacking in the kernel drivers for the 2i2!

Wish I could offer a fix but I have used it so sporadically thay I just tolerated my single choice for sample rate.