Essential Information About the Universal Audio "Apollo x8" Audio Interface (2nd Generation)
- High-end 24-bit/192 kHz conversion with "Dual Crystal Clocking" for a stable stereo image and recordings of remarkable purity.
- UAD HEXA Core DSP (6 SHARC cores) for real-time processing chains without burdening your computer.
- Modern studio workflow via UAD Console: Auto-Gain, bass management, plug-in scenes, and monitoring up to 7.1 surround.
- Comprehensive connectivity: 4 Unison preamps, ADAT, S/PDIF, Word Clock, dual headphone outputs, dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, and cascading up to 4 Apollos.
The New Rack Reference in the Apollo Family
Designed as the backbone of hybrid studios, the 2nd generation Apollo x8 pushes conversion accuracy and clock stability further. It integrates "Apollo Monitor Correction" powered by Sonarworks to ensure reliable mixing decisions on speakers and headphones. Within the range, it offers the ideal balance between I/O count, DSP power, and 1U format.
For Demanding Producers, Engineers, and Creators
The Apollo x8 is aimed at studios that handle tracking, overdubs, sound design, and multichannel mixing. Its 4 Unison preamps accommodate microphones and instruments with character, while the UAD DSP allows near-zero latency monitoring and recording with console, preamp, compressor, and reverb emulations. Post-production professionals benefit from monitoring up to 7.1 with speaker calibration and downmix.
Key Features and Innovations
Precision Conversion and Monitoring
The 2nd generation raises the resolution of the D/A converters and improves temporal stability thanks to "Dual Crystal Clocking." Combined with Apollo Monitor Correction (Sonarworks), it secures your decisions: what you hear during the session matches the final output. The monitoring control offers Mono/Dim, bass management, and recallable scenes to instantly restore your layouts.
A Powerful Hybrid Workflow
The HEXA Core DSP adds six SHARC cores to run your UAD plug-ins in real-time tracking and mixing, while the computer handles your native virtual instruments. Via Thunderbolt 3, you can chain up to four Apollos to expand I/O and control everything from a Twin or a desktop x4.
Technical Specifications
Conversion & Audio
- Resolution: 24-bit/192 kHz
- "Dual Crystal Clocking" for minimal jitter and a stable stereo image
- Supports Surround monitoring up to 7.1 with calibration and downmix
Analog Inputs
- 4 Unison microphone preamplifiers
- 4 microphone inputs on XLR
- 2 Hi-Z instrument inputs on 6.35 mm jack
Analog Outputs
- 2 Monitor outputs on 6.35 mm jack
- 8 line outputs on 6.35 mm jack
- 2 stereo headphone outputs on 6.35 mm jack
Digital Connections
- Coaxial S/PDIF input/output
- 2 ADAT inputs/outputs
Clock & Synchronization
- Word Clock input/output on BNC
DSP & Processing
- UAD HEXA Core DSP (6 SHARC cores) for real-time processing
- Auto-Gain function for automatic level adjustment
Controls & Monitoring
- +48 V phantom power, pad attenuator, high-pass filter, phase inversion
- Monitor switch, assignable function button for Dim or Mono
- LED VU meter, built-in Talkback microphone
Connectivity & Compatibility
- 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports (Mac/Windows)
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 2 via optional TB2-TB3 adapter (not included)
- Cascading up to 4 Apollo interfaces via Thunderbolt
Software & Content
- Essentials+ plug-in bundle
Power Supply & Format
- External power supply included
- 19-inch rack format, 1U
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