Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen2 Studio+

WHAT’S NEW IN THE 2ND GENERATION OF APOLLO X8 INTERFACES!

• HEXA Core DSP processing: This enables the use of more UAD plug-ins in real time and offers greater overall processing capacity.
• Improved D/A converters: The G2 version’s D/A converters offer an extended dynamic range of up to 130 dB and a very low total harmonic distortion of -127 dB. This ensures more detailed and precise audio output compared to the G1 version.
• Apollo Monitor Correction: The G2 version supports Apollo Monitor Correction, which utilises Sonarworks® technology. This feature improves monitoring in different rooms and via headphones, a capability not offered by the G1 version.
• Improved clocking technology: The dual-crystal clocking technology in the G2 version reduces jitter and improves stability at all sample rates. This results in more precise synchronisation and even better sound quality.
• Auto-Gain Function: The new Auto-Gain function in the G2 version allows levels to be adjusted automatically. This simplifies operation and saves time when setting up inputs.
• UAD Console App Updates: The G2 version offers enhanced features in the UAD Console app, including Plugin Scenes. These new features enable more efficient control of plugins and monitoring, which were not yet available in the G1 version.
• 7.1 Surround Sound Support: Newly added support for immersive audio set-ups with up to 7.1 surround sound and subwoofer integration.

Powerful HEXA Core DSP processing

The Apollo x8 Gen2 Studio+ is a Thunderbolt audio interface designed specifically for professional audio production. With its 18 x 24 configuration and powerful HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing, it is ideal for large-scale projects involving complex plug-in chains. Equipped with four Unison™ microphone preamps and two Hi-Z instrument inputs, it enables real-time tracking with authentic sounds from legendary hardware by brands such as Neve, Manley and Fender. In addition, there are eight 6.35 mm jack line inputs, allowing for easy integration of external devices such as synthesisers and keyboards. The two optical Toslink inputs (ADAT S/MUX) and the coaxial RCA input (S/PDIF) further expand the interface’s connectivity options.

The Apollo x8 G2’s D/A converters deliver a resolution of 24-bit/192 kHz and feature dual-crystal clocking, which ensures extremely low jitter at all sample rates. With an extended dynamic range of 130 dB and very low total harmonic distortion, the unit is ideal for precise monitoring and high-quality playback. Two monitor outputs, eight line outputs and two headphone outputs provide versatile output options, including for surround set-ups.

Precise control

Another advantage of the Apollo x8 G2 is its support for the UAD Console app, which enables features such as auto-gain and plugin scenes. Bass management andsubwoofer integration, as well as 7.1 surround sound, make the interface a flexible tool for a wide variety of audio set-ups. It also supports over 200 UAD plugins, which can be seamlessly integrated into all popular DAWs such as Logic Pro, Pro Tools or Ableton Live. Via Thunderbolt, the interface can also be expandedwith additional Apollo devices, enabling up to 128 channels for demanding productions.

The front panel of the unit features intuitive controls that allow for quick and easy adjustment of the most important functions. These include knobs for controlling the volume of headphones and monitors, as well as dedicated buttons for controlling the preamps, phantom power, the -20dB PAD, phase reversal and a high-pass filter. Additional front-panel controls also allow key parameters such as level adjustments and muting to be adjusted directly, without having to navigate through deeper menu structures.

The extensive plugin library includes, amongst other things, channel strips, equalisers, reverbs and compressors, covering a wide range of sonic possibilities. The included plug-ins cover many areas of application, from recording to mastering, and can be used to achieve optimal sound design in all projects.

Included plugins (Studio+):