Antelope Audio Orion Studio Synergy Core Thunderbolt/USB Audio Interface

Product Reviews

I'm using this interface through Thunderbolt connection with a 2018 MacMini. So far I've had zero issues. I've seen many complaints about Antelope Audio on platforms like Youtube and Gearspace regarding driver issues and customer support. I've submitted multiple tickets with Antelope regarding the Routing Matrix and they've always responded in a timely manner - no complaints there. As far as build quality the interface is built well and feels how you'd want it to feel with a nice weight. Regarding sound and conversion quality the interface is awesome. Just listening to music with lossless streaming through this thing is a treat. While mixing I've noticed I can pick up on details more easily which seems to be due to better imaging and spread between sounds. The clarity is there 100%. Great interface, I probably won't ever need to replace this thing for my small home studio.

By Hugo C on June 13, 2022

This is for anyone looking to buy the latest version of the synergy core with thunderbolt 3.
Not all of the drivers work with the new apple M1 chips yet and as a result, some features are missing from my interface. My first two preamps do not work at all and some of the features are very laggy, which I don’t know if that’s a result from the type of processing or from the software not being updated yet.
Overall I give it 3 stars because to be honest, the preamps, plugins, and converters sound awesome. The preamps are very transparent, the plugins have lots of fun color to them, and the converters are everything I wanted.
However, I’d advise you to wait a couple months before buying due to their latest version of the synergy core not being fully useable on some devices like mine, atleast that’s what antelope audio and vintage king told me over the phone… i run a MacBook Air with the new M1 chip.
Best of luck!

By Aidan R on May 1, 2022

The audio quality is second to none. I'm also very impressed with the quality of the AFX plug-ins. However, the Orion's drivers and operating software have room for improvement. The USB stability seems great, but the Thunderbolt interface took almost a week of troubleshooting and two fresh installs of Windows 10 before it was working reliably. As of writing this (April 2022), Antelope still does not support Windows 11 at all. There's not even a beta driver available, and the support team will just say Windows 11 is not supported and close your help ticket. The highly touted AFX2DAW that allegedly lets you use Antelope's AFX system real-time while editing recorded tracks is EXTREMELY buggy. It is only officially supported in AVID Pro Tools 12 / Ultimate, Apple Logic Pro X and up, Image-Line FL Studio 20, Bitwig Studio, Cockos Reaper, Steinberg Cubase, and Presonus Studio One. That doesn't mean it always works in those DAWs, it only means Antelope will offer troubleshooting. There is no support and it does not work in Adobe Audition.

I gave the unit four stars because I'm very happy with the quality of recordings I have been creating with it. However, you should be aware that there is quite a bit of false hype around the bells and whistles such as the AFX2DAW. If you're buying for that specific feature, you will be disappointed.

By Fred F on April 6, 2022

I continue to be blown away by the sound quality of the Orion. Words can't really express it—I encourage you to try one if you're interested. The quality and I/O can't be beat at this price and the plugins aren't bad either. I like tracking with a little eq and compression. Great piece, glad I made the upgrade.

By Phil H on September 13, 2021

I have been an Antelope user for a few years, my previous interface was an Orion Studio HD which I loved, the newer version which is this one Orion Studio Synergy Core is fantastic! Not only the FX's are superb, but it also added support for 8 more channels through ADAT which is great! Awesome job Antelope!

By Marco B on June 17, 2021

The Orion sounds great, the only reason for 4 stars is the software is not easy to install, you have to get your head around it, then it makes sense,be prepared to call tech support, BUT it is a great sounding interface with very flexible routing,I’m using it with a SSL Six mixer, so the 16 outputs and the SSL make for great summing and as a high end Monitor control solution, very happy with the setup

By Lockett P on October 29, 2020

Phenomenal Product. One of the most versatile interfaces I've ever worked with. So unique and useful to have 12 pre's in one rack space and have availability of those extra channels without hooking up extra gear. Sounds amazing and the possibilities are endless once you get a hang of the routing matrix. Top notch modeling on the plugins and mic emulations if you pair with and Edge or Verge Mic.

By Jon on October 6, 2020

Getting everything registered was easy with the help of the YouTube video, installing the drivers was easy too (once I realized the launcher will install the most recent USB and TB drivers for you). Of course, the sound is amazing, and the features are unbeatable. The AFX sound really nice and having the processing be outboard is super helpful on big sessions. I am extremely satisfied with the Orion Studio Synergy Core!

By Cameron J on October 5, 2020

Thank you, Bill.

By BIL - on September 23, 2020

Next Level! I've made records with and for many artists over the years but since I purchased my Orion Studio Synergy Core my recordings and Mixes have gone to the next level! Using the AFX2DAW plugings has upgraded my whole workflow. Not only do they sound amazing but using the built-in DSP has allowed my large mixes to flow seamlessly and creatively. Add to that the Edge Duo microphone and it's incredible modeling. I'm set for the next level!

By keath@gcdigi.com on November 30, -0001

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