Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 – Analog Classics
By Universal Audio
Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 – Analog Classics is a rackmount 16-in / 22-out Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed for bands, producers and recording engineers who need extensive microphone connectivity and real-time UAD processing. Featuring eight Unison-enabled microphone preamps, two front-panel instrument inputs and onboard HEXA Core DSP, it supports multi-microphone sessions with compatible preamp, compressor and amplifier emulations available during recording. Gen 2 audio conversion, optical digital expansion and integrated stereo and surround monitor control provide a flexible foundation for tracking and mixing. The included UAD Analog Classics bundle supplies a broad selection of studio processing and creative software.
Key features
- 16-in / 22-out Thunderbolt 3 audio interface
- Gen 2 audio conversion at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
- 8 Unison-enabled microphone preamps
- 8 balanced line inputs via DB-25 connection
- 2 front-panel Hi-Z inputs for guitars or basses
- HEXA Core DSP for real-time UAD plug-in processing
- Optical digital I/O supporting ADAT S/MUX or S/PDIF
- Dedicated stereo monitor outputs and 8 line outputs via DB-25
- 2 stereo headphone outputs with independent level controls
- Built-in talkback microphone and alternate speaker switching
- Monitor control supporting configurations up to 7.1 surround
- Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes and flexible routing through UAD Console
- Apollo Monitor Correction support powered by Sonarworks
- UAD Analog Classics software bundle included
Overview
| Product Type | Rackmount Thunderbolt Audio Interface |
| Generation | Gen 2 |
| Software Edition | UAD Analog Classics |
| Maximum Audio Resolution | 24-bit / 192 kHz |
| Maximum I/O | 16 Inputs / 22 Outputs; Available Digital Channels Depend on Sample Rate |
| Microphone Inputs | 8 × XLR Inputs with Unison Preamps |
| Line Inputs | 8 × Balanced Channels via DB-25, Sharing the Microphone Input Channels |
| Instrument Inputs | 2 × Front-Panel ¼-inch Hi-Z Inputs, Sharing Analogue Input Channels 1 and 2 |
| Phantom Power | +48 V |
| Monitor Outputs | 2 × Balanced ¼-inch TRS |
| Line Outputs | 8 × Balanced Channels via DB-25 |
| Headphone Outputs | 2 × ¼-inch Stereo Jacks |
| Digital Connections | Optical TOSLINK I/O, ADAT S/MUX or S/PDIF |
| Clock Connections | BNC Word Clock Input and Output |
| Onboard Processing | UAD-2 HEXA Core DSP |
| Monitor Functions | Stereo and Up to 7.1 Surround, Alternate Speakers and Integrated Talkback |
| Computer Connection | Thunderbolt 3 |
| Power | External Power Supply |
| Compatibility | Supported Mac and Windows Thunderbolt Systems |
Included Content
- Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 audio interface
- External power supply
- UAD Analog Classics plug-in bundle, available through registration
- UAD Console and supporting software available to download
- Included software highlights: UA 610-A and 610-B Preamp & EQ, LA-6176 Signature Channel Strip, Teletronix LA-2A Tube Compressor and UA 1176 FET Compressor
- Additional software highlights: Oxide Tape Recorder, Galaxy Tape Echo, Pure Plate Reverb and PolyMAX Polyphonic Synth
Creative Tools
- Record up to eight microphones simultaneously through the Unison-enabled preamps, making the Apollo x8p suitable for drum kits, ensembles, group vocals and live band sessions.
- Use compatible Unison preamp plug-ins to shape input impedance, gain behaviour and tonal character, bringing the response of modelled analogue equipment into the recording process.
- Connect external microphone preamps, synthesizers and other line-level equipment through the DB-25 line input connection using a suitable breakout cable.
- Plug guitars or basses into the two front-panel Hi-Z inputs and monitor through compatible amplifier and pedal emulations while recording.
- Build real-time recording and monitoring chains using six onboard DSP cores. Available processing capacity depends on the selected UAD plug-ins, channel count and sample rate.
- Configure cue mixes in UAD Console and use the two headphone outputs to support performers during overdubs and collaborative recording.
- Expand the recording setup with compatible optical ADAT equipment, and use word clock I/O to synchronise connected digital devices.
- Connect the DB-25 line outputs to outboard processors, a patchbay or a multichannel monitoring system using appropriate cables.
- Configure stereo or surround monitoring up to 7.1, compare alternate speakers and communicate with performers through the integrated talkback microphone.
- Use Auto-Gain and Plug-In Scenes to establish recording levels and recall processing configurations for different performers, instruments or session tasks.
- Refine monitor or headphone playback with Apollo Monitor Correction when paired with the required Sonarworks SoundID Reference software and compatible calibration equipment.
- Shape recordings with the Analog Classics bundle, combining tube preamp colour and dynamic control with tape character, echo and plate reverb.
Ideal For
- Bands and ensembles
- Drum recording
- Recording and mixing engineers
- Music producers
- Multi-microphone recording sessions
- Project and professional studios
- Studios integrating patchbays and outboard equipment
- Stereo and surround production
- Anyone seeking a rackmount Apollo interface with eight Unison preamps, HEXA Core DSP and optical expansion