Buyer's Guide: Universal Audio Interfaces

Universal Audio has always been known for its innovation. From legendary mic pres and compressors to game-changing audio interfaces and software, the brand has truly helped shape the landscape of the modern recording industry.

The Apollo interface series, which was first introduced in 2012, has played a major role in furthering Universal Audio's legacy. Apollo interfaces offer world-class conversion, amazing preamps, and onboard processing for near-zero latency when using Universal Audio's top-notch plug-in emulations.

In 2021, the storied gear manufacturer released the popular Volt Series of desktop audio interfaces, which combine pristine audio quality and versatile effects in a compact package that's perfect for recording music, podcasts, and live streaming anywhere you want.

In 2024, Universal Audio released the Apollo X Gen 2 series, featuring a new modern industrial aesthetic, improved A/D and D/A conversion, and a host of new features designed to streamline your productions.

With so many great interfaces to choose from, you may be asking, "What's the right Universal Audio interface for me?" Throughout this Buyer's Guide, we will break down what makes each Universal Audio interface unique and offer some insight into how they will fit into your workflow.

How to Choose the Best UA Interface for Your Studio

Universal Audio's Apollo interface series has been a game-changer for home studio owners and professionals alike. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to choose the right interface for your needs. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of selecting the best UA interface for your studio.

Versions of the UA Interfaces

Before you dive into the technical specifications of UA's interfaces, it's essential to know the different versions available. Universal Audio offers two types of interfaces—rackmount and desktop. The rackmount versions come in a 1U or 2U form factor, while the desktop interfaces are more compact.

The rackmount interfaces include the Apollo x16, Apollo x8p, Apollo x8, and Volt 876, all of which offer powerful processing and conversion capabilities. The desktop interfaces, such as the Apollo Solo and Apollo Twin X, as well as several models in the Volt Series, are designed for small home studios and mobile recording setups.

The Variety of Inputs and Outputs

The next step in choosing the right UA interface is to consider the number of inputs and outputs you require. If you plan to record full bands or orchestras, you'll need an interface with multiple inputs, such as the Apollo x16, which has 16 channels of analog-to-digital conversion.

The Apollo x8p and Apollo x8, on the other hand, have eight and four built-in preamps, respectively, making them ideal for smaller recording setups. And if you're just looking to record vocals and maybe an instrument or two, the Twin, Solo, and Volt Series interfaces are a great choice.

Budget & Price Comparisons

Your budget is another crucial factor when it comes to choosing the right UA interface. The price of these interfaces can vary significantly, with the Apollo x16 being the most expensive and the Volt Series being the most affordable.

It's important to note that while the rackmount versions of the Apollo interfaces are more expensive, they offer more inputs and outputs and powerful processing capabilities. However, if you're on a tight budget, the desktop versions may be a better fit.

Universal Audio Interface Comparison

Once you've determined your budget and the number of inputs and outputs required, it's time to compare the technical specifications of the various UA interfaces. The flagship Apollo x16 offers 24-bit/192kHz resolution via Thunderbolt 3 connectivity and features 16 channels of analog-to-digital conversion. The Apollo x8p features eight Unison preamps, while the Apollo x8 has four. Both interfaces offer HEXA Core processing and are Thunderbolt compatible.

If you're looking for a more compact interface, the Apollo Twin X features two Unison preamps and is compatible with both Thunderbolt and USB. The Apollo Solo and Apollo Solo USB are designed for small home studios and mobile setups and feature Unison preamp technology and Realtime Analog Classics UAD plug-ins. The Volt Series is perfect for creative collaborators who want to easily record audio projects with professional studio sound

Let's take a closer look at the Apollo X desktop and rackmount interfaces, as well as the compact Volt Series.

Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 Interfaces

In 2024, Universal Audio updated the entire Apollo lineup, including the Apollo Twin X DUO | Gen 2, Apollo Twin X QUAD | Gen 2, Apollo x4 | Gen 2, Apollo x6 | Gen 2, Apollo x8 | Gen 2, Apollo x8p | Gen 2, Apollo x16 | Gen 2 with a modern industrial aesthetic, upgraded conversion technology, and a host of new features. Check out our First Listen video below to learn what's new in Gen 2.

Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 Desktop Interfaces

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X DUO / QUAD Gen 2

The Apollo Twin X DUO and QUAD are excellent choices for home studio producers, musicians, and engineers looking for world-class sound and real-time UAD plug-in processing in a compact desktop interface. Featuring elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 conversion, dual Unison™ preamps, and onboard DSP for near-zero-latency tracking, they bring the sound of Neve, API, Manley, and more right to your workspace. Whether you’re tracking vocals, guitar, or mixing with UAD plug-ins, the Apollo Twin X delivers professional-grade clarity, low-noise recording, and enhanced monitoring with Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks®. Designed for modern producers and artists, it’s a powerful desktop solution for achieving studio-quality sound with ease.

10 x 6 Thunderbolt audio interface with DUO or QUAD Core DSP plug-in processing
Two Unison™ mic preamps, Hi-Z instrument input, optical Toslink input (ADAT or S/PDIF)
Two 1/4" monitor outs, two 1/4" line outs (ALT), one 1/4" TRS headphone out
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution
Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 129 dB dynamic range
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
Updated UAD Console app with Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Apollo Twin X DUO Gen 2 Essentials+ Edition, Apollo Twin X DUO Gen 2 Studio+ Edition, Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Essentials+ Edition, and Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Studio+ Edition

Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2

For those who need even more power and flexibility in a desktop interface, the Apollo x4 Gen 2 takes everything great about the Apollo Twin X and expands it with additional I/O, more Unison preamps, and increased DSP processing. Designed for larger sessions and multi-mic recordings, the Apollo x4 is perfect for producers, engineers, and artists who need the legendary UA sound with added versatility. Whether you're tracking a full band, recording multiple vocalists, or layering complex instrumentals, the Apollo x4 delivers the same elite-class conversion and near-zero-latency UAD plug-in processing—but with four Unison preamps and QUAD Core DSP to handle even more demanding projects.

12 x 18 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with QUAD Core DSP plug-in processing
Four Unison™ mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, optical Toslink I/O (ADAT or S/PDIF)
Two 1/4" monitor outs, four 1/4" line outs (ALT 1 / 2), two 1/4" TRS headphone outs
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution
Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 129 dB dynamic range
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
Updated UAD Console app with Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2 Studio+ Edition

Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 Rackmount Interfaces

Universal Audio Apollo x6 Gen 2

For those expanding beyond desktop interfaces, the Apollo x6 Gen 2 is the perfect entry into rackmount power and flexibility. Designed for producers who need top-tier conversion and DSP without the extra mic preamps of larger models, the x6 delivers elite-class 24-bit/192 kHz audio, HEXA Core processing, and expanded I/O. With two Unison preamps, six line inputs, and enhanced D/A monitoring, it’s ideal for hybrid setups, synth-based production, and professional mixing. Plus, advanced features like Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks® ensure accurate monitoring.

16 x 22 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing
Two Unison™ mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, six 1/4" line inputs, two optical Toslink I/O (ADAT S/MUX), RCA coaxial I/O (S/PDIF), word clock I/O (BNC)
Two 1/4" monitor outs, six 1/4" line outs (ALT / 5.1 surround), two 1/4" TRS headphone outs
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 130 dB dynamic range and low THD of -127 dB
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
Updated UAD Console app with Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x6 Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x6 Gen 2 Studio+ Edition

Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2

The Apollo x8 Gen 2 takes your rackmount setup to the next level, offering more preamps and I/O options than the x6. With four Unison™ mic preamps, six line inputs, and HEXA Core DSP processing, the x8 is perfect for handling larger projects and more complex workflows. Elite-class 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion, enhanced D/A monitoring, and advanced features like Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks® ensure you achieve the highest quality sound and accurate mixes in any environment.

18 x 24 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing
Four Unison™ mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, eight 1/4" line inputs, two optical Toslink I/O (ADAT S/MUX), RCA coaxial I/O (S/PDIF), word clock I/O (BNC)
Two 1/4" monitor outs, eight 1/4" line outs (ALT / 7.1 surround), two 1/4" TRS headphone outs
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 130 dB dynamic range and low THD of -127 dB
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
Updated UAD Console app with Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Studio+ Edition

Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2

The Apollo x8p Gen 2 is built for artists, engineers, and producers recording large sessions who need high-quality audio with expanded analog inputs. Equipped with eight Unison™ preamps, it’s ideal for capturing full-band performances with the authentic sound of legendary analog gear, like Neve, API, and Manley, all in real-time with near-zero latency. With elite-class Apollo X conversion, HEXA Core DSP, and enhanced D/A monitoring, it delivers the highest resolution and dynamic range for the most demanding projects

16 x 22 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing
Eight Unison™ mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, DB-25 input (line 1-8), two optical Toslink I/O (ADAT S/MUX or S/PDIF), word clock I/O (BNC)
Two 1/4" monitor outs, DB-25 output (ALT / 7.1 surround), two 1/4" TRS headphone outs
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 130 dB dynamic range and low THD of -127 dB
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
Updated UAD Console app with Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 Studio+ Edition

Universal Audio Apollo x16 Gen 2

The Apollo x16 Gen 2 is the ultimate solution for pro studios and producers who need to integrate multiple studio sources with unmatched audio quality. With 18 x 20 I/O via DB-25 connections and switchable +24 dBu headroom, it provides seamless connectivity for large sessions. Onboard HEXA Core DSP lets you record and mix in real-time with UAD plug-ins. Offering world-class A/D and D/A conversion, Apollo x16 captures every detail with an ultra-low noise floor, while features like Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks® ensure accurate monitoring. Plus, with immersive audio capabilities for formats like Dolby Atmos and Sony 360, the x16 is perfect for next-level mixing and post-production work.

18 x 20 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing
Two DB-25 inputs (line 1-16), stereo AES I/O (XLR), word clock I/O (BNC)
Two monitor outs (XLR), two DB-25 outputs (line 1-16 or ALT / 9.1.6 surround)
Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
Flagship D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 133 dB dynamic range and ultra-low THD of -129 dB
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for stereo and immersive calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
ALT monitoring support in all monitor modes (2 x ALT for stereo, 1 x ALT for immersive)
Updated UAD Console app with Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x16 Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x16 Gen 2 Ultimate Edition

UNIVERSAL AUDIO APOLLO X16D AUDIO INTERFACE

Universal Audio's Apollo x16D audio interface combines 16 channels of flexible Dante I/O with the brand’s top-of-the-line Apollo X audio conversion technology and HEXA core processing. Perfect for live sound venues and networked recording studios, Apollo x16D allows users to mix and record live performances with UA’s award-winning analog-modeled plug-ins in real time over Dante.

In addition to Dante connectivity, the Apollo x16D also sports a few other new features compared to its siblings in the Apollo Series, including a powerful new digital mixing engine, support for a wide range of immersive and surround sound formats, and connectivity for daisy-chaining up to four x16Ds.

18 x 20 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with 16 x 16 Dante® network I/O (supports AES67 mode @ 48 kHz)
Onboard HEXA Core Processing for mixing with UAD plug-ins at near-zero latency
Recall plug-in settings over MIDI, even during live performances
Two monitor outs (XLR), word clock I/O (BNC), and stereo AES I/O for connecting professional digital outboard hardware
Elite-class performance with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
Flagship D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 133 dB dynamic range and ultra-low THD of -129 dB
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® for stereo and immersive calibration
Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback
ALT monitoring support in all modes (2 x ALT for stereo, 1 x ALT for immersive)
Create 16-channel immersive audio mixes for Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, Sony 360 Reality Audio, and more
Updated UAD Console app with Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and more
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins (VST, AU, AAX 64 formats)

Available Models: Universal Audio Apollo x16D Gen 2 Essentials+ and Universal Audio Apollo x16D Gen 2 Ultimate Edition

Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 1 Audio Interfaces

Universal Audio's Apollo X Gen 1 interfaces are still available and remain more than capable of handling the demands of any studio, providing legendary UA audio quality, UAD-2 processing power, and industry-leading AD/DA conversion. These interfaces come in both Heritage and non-Heritage edition bundles while supplies last. The Heritage Edition includes 10 premium UAD plug-ins, offering a robust selection of studio-grade tools for producers and engineers looking to elevate their sound. For those who don't need the extra plug-ins, the non-Heritage editions provide the same elite-class audio performance but at a lower price point, including the Realtime Analog Classics Plus bundle to get you started with UAD's most popular plug-ins. And whether you choose Heritage or non-Heritage, there’s always the option to expand your collection with additional plug-ins or bundle deals like LUNA Creator or Analog Essential for even more power.

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X USB and Solo: Tailored Desktop Solutions

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X USB

If you're in love with the form factor of the Apollo Twin X, but primarily work on a system with USB connectivity, Universal Audio has a solution for you. The Universal Audio Apollo Twin USB is a 2x6 interface that is compatible with Windows-based systems.

Much like the Apollo Twin X, the interface features a Hi-Z input and headphone output on the front of the unit, in addition to two Unison-enabled mic pres on the back. The Apollo Twin USB offers 24/192 kHz audio conversion and offers DUO Core processing for plenty of onboard processing power.

Universal Audio Apollo Solo

The Apollo Solo is the smallest Apollo interface to date from Universal Audio. The compact interface will deliver ultra-high-quality conversion with its 24-bit/192 kHz capability via Thunderbolt 3 connection.

Featuring the same preamp architecture found in other Apollo units, the Solo enables you to track up to two channels at a time, either using the pristine tone of the preamps or with the unmistakable sound of classic circuits like Neve and API via Unison modeling technology.

Music makers wanting elite sound quality, access to Universal Audio's plug-in platform, and a more streamlined feature set will find the Apollo Solo to be just right. This interface also includes the Realtime Analog Classics Plus bundle and will fully integrate with the new LUNA Recording System. That means you’ll be able to get to work with great plug-ins and the powerful Accelerated Real-time Monitoring that the LUNA system boasts from anywhere you want.

Universal Audio Apollo Solo USB

In addition to the Apollo Solo, Universal Audio has introduced the Apollo Solo USB. As you may have guessed from its name, this interface features USB connectivity while still offering the same great conversion, sound, and clarity of the Thunderbolt version.

Now, musicians and engineers working on Windows systems have the ability to take advantage of Universal Audio's onboard DSP, stunning microphone preamps, and plug-ins from anywhere you can connect to a laptop.

Universal Audio Volt Interfaces

Universal Audio Volt Series audio interfaces.

The UA Volt series introduces a compact new lineup of USB audio interfaces for musicians, podcasters, and streamers. Equipped with UA's industry-leading preamps and pristine 24-bit/192kHz resolution, Volt Series interfaces deliver studio-quality sound in a compact desktop package.

The UA Volt series features six interfaces: Volt 1, Volt 2, Volt 176, Volt 276, Volt 476, and Volt 876. Capture the rich, full sound of the renowned Universal Audio 610 tube preamp using Vintage Mode, which enables UA's exclusive tube emulation circuitry.

Additionally, the Volt 876, 476, 276, and 176 include a built-in analog compressor equipped with an innovative analog circuit inspired by UA's classic 1176 Limiting Amplifier. Presets for Vocals, Guitar, and Fast make it easy to quickly dial in the right sound while tracking or mixing.

UA Volt Series interfaces also come bundled with an impressive suite of advanced production tools, virtual instruments, and plug-ins to help you dial in radio-ready tracks. Stay inspired with software from Ableton, Celemony, UJAM, Marshall, Ampeg, and more. Plus, all Volt Series interfaces are compatible with Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone, so you can create studio-quality productions at home, in the studio, or on the go.

Check out our video below for an overview of the entire UA Volt line and watch as we track using the Universal Audio Volt 276 audio interface.

Universal Audio Volt 1 Audio Interface

The UA Volt 1 is a 1-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface that is bus-powered and can be used to record with Mac/PC and iPad/iPhone. The interface features 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion, 1-in/1-out MIDI connection, a studio-quality headphone amplifier, 48V phantom power and a microphone enabled with Vintage Mic Preamp mode.

Universal Audio Volt 2 Audio Interface

The Universal Audio Volt 2 builds on the platform of the UA Volt 1 with an additional mic preamp. This mic pre also features UA's Vintage Mic Preamp mode for capturing rich, full sounds with your interface.

Universal Audio Volt 176 Audio Interface

As mentioned above, Universal Audio has included an onboard 76 in the signal chain of three UA Volt interfaces, starting with the UA Volt 176 model. The compressor features three presets tailored to different sources that will allow you tame or add punch to your heart's content.

Universal Audio Volt 276 Audio Interface

The UA Volt 276 is a 2-in/2-out desktop interface just like the Volt 2, but both mic preamps feature the onboard 76 compressor. This means that when you're tracking two sources with the Volt 276, you can choose independent compression settings for each channel.

Universal Audio Volt 476 Audio Interface

The Universal Audio Volt 476 is a 4-in/4-out audio interface with all of the bells and whistles of the models mentioned before and more. Users can take advantage of the two mic pres featuring Vintage Mic Preamp mode and the onboard 76-style compressor, in addition to two 1/4" line inputs on the back. The UA Volt 476 also includes four line outputs and two monitor outputs.

Universal Audio Volt 876 Audio Interface

The Universal Audio Volt 876 expands the Volt lineup with increased I/O and added flexibility for larger recording setups. Built around UA’s 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion, the Volt 876 features multiple mic preamps with Vintage Mic Preamp mode, along with onboard 76-style compression for shaping dynamics while tracking. With ample analog and digital connectivity, MIDI I/O, and easy USB operation, the Volt 876 is designed to handle everything from band tracking to hybrid studio workflows.

Universal Audio LUNA Recording System

Released in 2020, Universal Audio's LUNA software is more than just a DAW — it's a full-blown music creation, recording, and analog-style production system. Available for free to Mac users, LUNA seamlessly integrates with Universal Audio Thunderbolt-equipped interfaces for ultra-low-latency recording and mixing. Paired with UA's analog-inspired plug-ins, LUNA puts the power of an analog recording studio at your fingertips.

Watch below to find out what can be done with the LUNA Recording System:

If you have further questions about the right Universal Audio interface for you, we're here to help! Please contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.