Universal Audio Apollo x8 18x24 Thunderbolt 3 Recording Interface

The Universal Audio Apollo X: The Evolution of Apollo Recording Interfaces

There’s no doubt that the Universal Audio Apollo has changed the way the world records music. With the release of the new Apollo X series, Universal Audio is once again pushing their flagship interface forward and adding more power than ever before. The Universal Audio Apollo x8 improves upon its predecessors with unparalleled conversion, processing and monitoring features.

The Apollo x8 is the ideal tool for recording musicians, engineers and project studio owners, as you’re able to track and mix via an 18x24 (8x14 analog I/O) interface with four Unison-enable mic preamps and new HEXA core processing. Universal Audio has upped the ante power-wise as the HEXA core processing allows for 50% more DSP for running UAD plug-ins during each step of your workflow.

Packaged in a sleek rack mount unit with Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for Mac and PC, the Apollo x8 has additional improvements in conversion and monitoring. Universal Audio engineers have updated their converters for more pristine recordings and now offer up to 7.1 surround sound monitoring, an integrated monitor controller and built-in talkback mic.

Improved Conversion For The Apollo x8

In the time since the release of the Apollo MKII interfaces, Universal Audio engineers have been hard at work on improving the conversion capabilities for the launch of the Apollo X line. Ultimately, the design team paired together 24-bit/192 kHz converters with new analog circuitry to offer Apollo x8 users pristine sounds with 129 dB dynamic range and 128 dB THD+N.

Adding More Power To The Apollo x8

The Apollo x8 offers more power than ever before with HEXA Core processing that utilizes six DSP chips. With 50% more DSP than previous generations of the interface, you’ll be able to take advantage of Universal Audio’s extensive UAD library and have a higher plug-in count when recording and mixing with the Apollo x8.

Nailing The Tone With Unison Technology

Universal Audio’s Unison Technology melds together plug-ins and analog in a way they’ve never been paired before. The Apollo x8 features four Unison-enabled mic pres, which allow music makers to track through mic pre emulations that match the actual input impedance, gain stage “sweet spots” and circuit behaviors of the gear they are based on. With legendary mic pre emulations from API, Manley, Neve, SSL and Universal Audio at the ready, you can bring the exact tone of so many classic records to next your next project.

A Seamless Fit In Any Studio

Using Apollo interfaces in a professional recording studio has never been easier. The Apollo x8 features up to 7.1 surround monitoring for engineers, producers and musicians working in any type of studio setting. There is also a selectable +24 dBU option for working outside of the box and using the Apollo x8 in conjunction with recording consoles and analog outboard gear.

Utilizing The Realtime Analog Classics Plus Bundle

Universal Audio has been one of the leaders in creating plug-in emulations of classic gear since they first re-founded in 1999. When purchasing the Apollo x8, you gain instant access to the brand’s Realtime Analog Classics Plus Bundle, which features 16 world-class plug-ins. You’ll get Universal Audio staples like the featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp (Legacy), UA 1176LN Limiting Amplifier (Legacy), Pultec EQP-1A EQ (Legacy), Fairchild 670 Compressor (Legacy), Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR and so much more.

Features:

• 18x24 (8x14 analog I/O) Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with class-leading 24-bit/192 kHz conversion (backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 1 & 2 on Mac)
• Realtime UAD HEXA Core Processing for tracking through UAD plug-ins at near-zero latency, regardless of audio buffer size
• Record through 4 Unison-enabled mic/line preamps — giving you fully authentic preamp emulations from Neve, API, Manley, SSL, and more
• Dual Crystal clocking for a low-jitter environment and pure, artifact-free recordings and solid stereo imaging
• Surround monitor controller up to 7.1 format
• Includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle
• UAD HEXA Core processing onboard for additional mixing horsepower for Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Ableton, and other major DAWs
• Combine up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 total UAD devices
• Selectable +24 dBu operation for easy compatibility with professional mixing consoles and tape machines
• Convenient front panel monitoring functions including Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and assignable Dim or Mono
• Uncompromising UA analog design, superior components, and premium build quality
• Free, industry-leading technical support — on the phone and online — from knowledgeable audio engineers