New Apollo X GEN 2 Audio Interface Features & Upgrades
Explore New Features & Serious Upgrades
The Universal Audio Apollo X audio interfaces have just levelled up—introducing the Gen 2 models! Packed with new features and serious upgrades, these interfaces take performance to a whole new level, giving you more control and precision in your studio setup. Let’s dive into the key enhancements that make the Gen 2 Apollo X interfaces stand out.
Universal Audio Apollo X Audio Interfaces
Bypassable Preamps & Auto-Gain
The bypassable preamps and auto-gain are two standout upgrades in the Gen 2s, designed to streamline your workflow and improve sound capture. Whether you’re using mic, line, or hi-z inputs, the auto-gain feature is easily accessible via UA’s Console app. With this, you can automatically set gain levels for your preamps, including Unsion preamp models like the Neve 1073 and API channel strips. And for even more flexibility, manual gain adjustments are still an option for those who prefer a more saturated sound.
What’s exciting is that bypassing the preamps is no longer limited to rack units—it’s now available on desktop devices, too! This means you can daisy-chain multiple interfaces through Thunderbolt, operating auto-gain across multiple devices simultaneously. This is perfect for more complex recording setups, like capturing drums with multiple microphones.
Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Rear
Enhanced Audio Conversion
Universal Audio has also significantly upgraded the audio conversion on the entire Apollo X range, improving dynamic range and reducing Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The improvements are especially noticeable in the headphone amps, where noise levels have dropped drastically. For instance, models like the Twin X Duo, Quad, and X4 now boast an additional 1–3 dB of dynamic range and reduced noise floor.
Universal Audio Apollo X4 Gen 2
On the rack-mounted X6, X8, and X8p units, these improvements are just as impressive, bringing them even closer to the performance level of the flagship X16. All this is possible thanks to the inclusion of top-spec ESS Sabre D-to-A converter chips, giving your recordings an extra layer of clarity and precision.
Headphone Amp Upgrades
The improvements to the headphone amplifiers are the most noticeable upgrade in the Gen 2 models. By reducing the harmonic distortion, the Gen 2 headphone amps now rival top-tier DAC amps, delivering a cleaner, more detailed listening experience. While it still retains the familiar Apollo sound, it’s a substantial upgrade from the first-generation models.
Universal Audio X8p Gen 2
For most users, this upgrade will be more than sufficient, and when combined with the integration of Sound iD for on-board headphone calibration, the listening experience becomes even more refined.
Built-In Headphone & Speaker Calibration
In collaboration with Sonarworks, Universal Audio has integrated Sound iD Reference 5 directly into the Apollo system. This allows for precise calibration of both headphones and speakers, taking your monitoring setup to the next level. The Apollo system now offers more EQ bands for correction compared to standard Sound iD software, making the calibration more accurate.
You can load headphone calibration profiles directly into Console, where you can adjust and customize your settings with ease. Whether you’re working with a desktop or rack unit, this feature is a game changer, particularly for those working in Dolby Atmos environments, as the Gen 2 Apollo X interfaces can handle 9.1.6 surround sound calibration.
Bass Management for Surround Sound
Another impressive addition is the new bass management feature, which allows for independent routing and processing control of your subwoofer. You can set cross-over points and independently trim each speaker, including your subwoofer. Sound iD applies a separate EQ and time-aligned to your subwoofer. This is perfect for users with full-range 2.1 stereo or surround sound setups up to 9.1.6 offering a complete solution for Dolby Atmos and other multi-channel configurations.
Plugin Power & Software Updates
As always, Universal Audio offers a generous plugin bundle with the Apollo X interfaces. Whether you’re using DSP or native versions of the plugins, you’re covered. And if you’re looking to upgrade, there are always options to expand your collection.
UA’s focus on maintaining the relevance of their DSP and plugins in 2024 shows that these interfaces are still among the most powerful tools in any studio, whether you’re a beginner or a pro.
Final Thoughts
The Apollo X Gen 2 audio interfaces truly offer something for everyone. With powerful features like auto-gain, advanced bass management, improved conversion, and Sound iD calibration, these devices pack everything you could possibly want in a high-end interface. Whether you’re working with stereo, multi-channel, or even Dolby Atmos setups, the Gen 2s are a fantastic choice.
Purchasing Links
Sweetwater: https://sweetwater.sjv.io/m5xBgy
Thomann: https://thmn.to/thoprod/600573?offid=...
