Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface with Essentials+ Bundle

Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface with Essentials+ Bundle

The Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 is a premium 18 x 24 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed for professional studios, music producers, and audio engineers who demand exceptional sound quality and low-latency performance. Equipped with elite-class A/D and D/A conversion, upgraded Hexa Core DSP processing, and Unison™ mic preamp technology, the Apollo x8 Gen 2 delivers world-class recording quality that rivals high-end analog hardware.

This Gen 2 version offers improved converters, reduced noise, expanded dynamic range, and improved DSP efficiency. Bundled with the Essentials+ Collection, it provides a comprehensive suite of industry-leading UAD plug-ins, allowing users to track and mix through authentic emulations of classic compressors, EQs, tape machines, and preamps with near-zero latency.

Perfect for commercial studios, home recording setups, post-production, and high-end music creation, the Apollo x8 Gen 2 sets a new benchmark for professional audio interfaces.

Key Features

• High-fidelity conversion: 24‑bit / 192 kHz A/D and D/A conversion with dual‑crystal clocking for ultra-low jitter and accurate stereo imaging.
• Powerful onboard DSP: HEXA-Core (6 SHARC processors) for real-time processing of UAD plug-ins with near-zero latency — perfect for tracking through classic analog emulations. 
• Authentic analog-style preamps: Four Unison-enabled mic preamps (XLR / combo) that emulate legendary hardware preamps from brands like Neve, API, Manley, and more — giving your recordings the warmth and character of analog gear.
• Extensive I/O for complex sessions:
• 18 inputs / 24 outputs (analog + digital)
• 4 × mic/line inputs (combo XLR/TRS) + 8 × 1/4″ line inputs + 2 × Hi-Z instrument inputs
• 8 line outputs + 2 monitor outputs + 2 headphone outputs
• Digital I/O: 2 × ADAT optical I/O, S/PDIF coaxial I/O, Word‑clock I/O (BNC) for synchronization with external digital gear.
• Professional monitoring & routing: Support for surround sound up to 7.1 with Bass Management, Apollo Monitor Correction (room and headphone calibration), alternate speaker switching, talkback mic, dim/mono/alt speaker controls — ideal for mixing, mastering, or post‑production workflows.
• Low noise & high dynamic range: Up to 130 dB dynamic range; ultra-low distortion (THD around –127 dB) ensures clean, transparent sound for critical listening, recording, and mastering.
• Flexible DAW compatibility: Works with macOS and Windows systems over Thunderbolt 3 (backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 2 via adapter), and supports common plugin formats (VST, AU, AAX) for major DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more.
• Expandable studio setup: Ability to cascade up to 4 Apollo interfaces for expanded I/O when your studio grows.   Included Essentials+ Plug‑In Bundle: Comes with a collection of premium UAD plug-ins — compressors, EQs, analog emulations, and creative tools — providing everything you need for high-quality mixing, mastering, and production right away.