The Essentials to Know About the Apollo x8 Studio+ Audio Interface
- Reference 24-bit/192 kHz conversion, Dual Crystal Clocking clocking, and "Apollo Monitor Correction" monitoring correction powered by Sonarworks for accurate imaging on speakers and headphones.
- HEXA Core DSP architecture and modernized UAD Console workflow: Auto-Gain, bass management, plug-in scenes, and support for 7.1 surround.
- 4 Unison preamps, 2 Hi-Z inputs, talkback, dual headphone outputs, and comprehensive connectivity (ADAT, S/PDIF, Word Clock) in a 1U rack chassis.
- Expandable via Thunderbolt: chain up to four Apollo units to reach up to 128 I/O with centralized control in your DAW.
From Apollo Heritage to the Second Generation x8 Studio+
Born from Universal Audio's expertise, the second-generation Apollo x8 Studio+ refines conversion and clock stability to deliver increased precision, solid stereo imaging, and flawless transients. The collaboration with
Sonarworks adds native monitoring calibration: your mixing decisions remain consistent from room to room, and your masters "travel" without surprises.
Designed for Demanding Creators
Built for production studios, post-production, artist-directors, and hybrid creators, the Apollo x8 Studio+ excels in multi-source recording, near-zero latency overdubs, re-amping, mixing, and immersive monitoring up to 7.1. The
Unison preamps allow you to "track through" UAD emulations with the correct level, impedance, and analog behavior right at the input.
Features and Innovations Serving Workflow
Conversion, Clocking, and Calibrated Monitoring
High-end A/D and D/A converters combined with
Dual Crystal Clocking minimize jitter for clean recordings and a stable stereo field. With "Apollo Monitor Correction" by
Sonarworks, the room becomes an asset: correction curves, level management, and headphone/speaker consistency integrate directly into monitoring control.
UAD Console, Speed, and Flexibility
UAD Console centralizes routing, recalls plug-in scenes, activates
Auto-Gain, manages bass management, and facilitates downmix/upmix in
7.1 surround. The
HEXA Core DSP supports real-time chains while your computer hosts native plug-ins for a smooth hybrid system.
Professional Connectivity and Front Panel Control
With 4 microphone preamps, 2 Hi-Z inputs, 8 line outputs, dedicated monitor outputs, dual headphone outputs,
ADAT x2,
S/PDIF, and
Word Clock, the Apollo x8 Studio+ covers all studio scenarios. The talkback mic, monitor switch, and assignable Dim/Mono button speed up communication and pre-take checks. Via Thunderbolt, cascade up to
4 Apollo units to expand I/O and DSP.
Technical Specifications
Conversion, Clocking, and Processing
- Resolution: 24-bit/192 kHz
- 6-core SHARC DSP (HEXA Core) for real-time UAD processing
- 4 Unison microphone preamplifiers
- Auto-Gain function
- Dual Crystal Clocking for low jitter, clean recordings, and stable stereo imaging
- Support for surround formats up to 7.1 with speaker calibration and downmix
Analog Inputs/Outputs
- 4 microphone inputs on XLR
- 2 Hi-Z inputs on 6.3 mm jack
- 8 line outputs on 6.3 mm jack
- 2 monitor outputs on 6.3 mm jack
- 2 stereo headphone outputs on 6.3 mm jack
- LED vu-meter
Digital Inputs/Outputs and Clock
- Coaxial S/PDIF input/output
- 2 ADAT inputs/outputs
- Word Clock input/output on BNC
Monitoring and Control
- Monitor switch
- Assignable Dim or Mono function button
- Built-in talkback microphone
- +48 V phantom power
- Pad attenuator, high-pass filter, and phase inversion
Connectivity and Compatibility
- Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports
- For Mac/Windows
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 2 via optional Thunderbolt 2 to 3 adapter (not included)
- Up to 4 Apollo units cascaded via Thunderbolt
- "Studio+" plug-in bundle included
Form Factor and Power Supply
- 19-inch rack format, 1U
- Includes external power supply
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