Apollo X GEN 2 Audio Interface Technical Specifications
Universal Audio has made waves in the audio production world with its Apollo X Gen 2 series, designed to enhance the already stellar performance of their first-generation models. Whether you’re a seasoned producer or someone just starting out, the upgrades in the Gen 2 lineup are significant. Let’s dive into the details to see how the Apollo X Gen 2 interfaces compare to both their Gen 1 counterparts and competing products.
Apollo X Desktop Interfaces: What’s New in Gen 2?
The Apollo X Desktop interfaces have retained some core specs from Gen 1, but there are key improvements worth noting:
Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 1 & 2 Comparrison
Notable Improvements in Apollo X Gen 2 Desktop Models:
Line Out DAC: Slight increase in DNR from 126 dB(A) to 127 dB(A) with a more significant reduction in Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), offering cleaner, more detailed audio.
Monitor DAC: Jumping from a DNR of 127 to 129 dB(A) and a decrease in THD to an impressive 0.00010%, the Monitor DAC improvements are one of the most critical upgrades for critical listening and mixing.
HP Output: The headphone output has received a considerable boost, with lower THD making headphone monitoring clearer and more precise.
Apollo X Desktop vs Competitors
Comparing the Apollo X Gen 2 to other popular audio interfaces such as the Apogee Symphony, Antelope Discrete 4, Avid MBox Studio, Neumann MT 48, and RME UCX II gives us a clear picture of how they stack up in terms of specs:
Comparison chart against competitors
In summary, the Apollo X Gen 2 continues to hold its place as a top contender in the professional audio interface market. While the Neumann MT 48 stands out with slightly higher DNR and THD values in certain categories, the Apollo X Gen 2 maintains a remarkable balance of high-quality performance across Mic Input, Line In ADC, Line Out DAC, Monitor DAC, and HP Output, ensuring it is one of the best-rounded options available.
Apollo X Rack Units: A Closer Look at Gen 2
For larger studios, the Apollo X Rack Units are a robust choice, and the Gen 2 models introduce some noteworthy refinements over their Gen 1 predecessors:
Universal Audio Apollo X Rack Units Gen 1 & 2 Comparison
Key Enhancements in Rack Units:
Monitor DAC: Gen 2 features improved distortion reduction, lowering THD from 0.00012% to 0.00005%, resulting in extremely accurate monitoring.
Hi-Z Input: Small yet noticeable improvements in signal quality, with better DNR and the same strong performance for those using guitars or other high-impedance instruments.
Rack Unit Competitor Comparison
The Apollo X Gen 2 Rackmount units hold their own against brands like Antelope Orion 32+, Avid Carbon, and Apogee Symphony MkII SE.
United Audio Apollo X Rack Unit Competitor
The Apollo X Rackmount Gen 2 consistently maintains its superior position against the competition. It offers exceptional Monitor DAC performance, leading in both DNR and THD across multiple channels. Its Line In ADC and Line Out DAC results are equally impressive, outpacing or matching the top-tier alternatives like Apogee Symphony MkII SE and Avid Carbon. While Avid Carbon edges out in Mic Input DNR, the Apollo’s overall performance remains highly competitive, particularly in Monitor DAC and Headphone Output.
Compared to the newer interfaces such as Audient ORIA and Antelope Orion 32+/Galaxy 32, the Apollo X Rackmount Gen 2 shows clear superiority in THD and DNR, making it one of the most versatile and high-performing audio interfaces for professional use.
Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade?
Whether you are considering upgrading from Apollo X Gen 1 to Gen 2, or comparing it to other leading interfaces, the Gen 2 models offer clear improvements in distortion levels, dynamic range, and headphone monitoring performance. These refinements make Apollo X Gen 2 a compelling choice for high-end audio production, mixing, and mastering, ensuring precision and clarity across every stage of the workflow.
Purchasing Links
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BUY UNIVERSAL AUDIO APOLLO X GEN 2 PRODUCTS:
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