Universal Audio Apollo X8P Heritage Edition (Rack/Mac/Win/TB3)

Full Description

Elite, class-leading audio conversion

The Apollo x8p is one of the latest additions to Universal Audio’s revered Apollo series. The Apollo interface series is renowned for its exceptional audio fidelity and class-leading audio conversion. The Apollo x8p builds on this by incorporating new realtime UAD HEXA core processing. It delivers elite-class audio conversion as well as the ability to record with near-zero latency through the included preamp emulations.

The custom A/D and D/a converters provide high-end 24-bit/192kHz audio fidelity. The all-new analog circuitry delivers exceptional sound reproduction providing pristine sound. The interface provides 129 dB dynamic range and -118 dB THD+N, making it perfect for a wide range of sound sources. The 18 x 22 interface includes two Unison-enabled mic preamps as well as switchable headroom settings for pro-level studio gear.

Eight unison microphone preamps provide pristine sound

Universal Audio’s Unison microphone preamp technology delivers exceptional sound reproduction with strict attention to detail. The Unison technology allows you to use your Unison-enabled mic preamp simulations with your microphone. The custom technology allows you to faithfully recreate the sweet tones of classic studio gear and preamps.

Realtime UAD HEXA core processing

The Apollo x8p features all-new HEX Core processing. This unique technology utilises six DSP chips providing up to percent more UAD plugin processing power than previous Apollo interfaces. This gives you the ability to run more UAD plugins simultaneously. The UAD plugins available provide realtime processing of your sound sources. They span from classic recreations of Pultec EQs to cutting-edge preamp emulations. This takes your recording capabilities to the next level allowing you to achieve rich, three-dimensions analog sound.

Exclusive Heritage Edition plugin bundle

Retaining all the same features of the Apollo x8p, the Heritage Edition expands the plug-in library, providing ten new award-winning UAD plugin titles (worth over 2,400 USD) in addition to the UAD analog plugin bundle. The new plugins include meticulously crafted collections from: Helios, Fairchild, Teletronix, Pultec and Universal Audio. These plugins span everything from classic equalisers to cutting-edge recorders and preamplifiers.

Analog Classic Plus UAD plugin bundle

The Apollo x8p comes complete with the Realtime Analog Classic Plus plug-in bundle. This bundle includes faithful recreations of classic outboard gear including authentic emulations of the Teletronix LA-2A, 1176LN and Fairchild compressors. It also boasts guitar and bass amp emulations from Marshall and Ampeg for classic-sounding instrument tones. The bundle provides you with definitive emulations of the most iconic analog signal processors in recording history. Additional UAD plugins are available from a versatile library of exclusive emulations. The emulations span some of the most iconic outboard gear and signal processors. The meticulously crafted emulations are designed to sound and react like the hardware they are based on. It virtually gives you a studio full of iconic analog gear in a single rackspace.

Surround sound monitoring and +24dBu operation

The interface also provides comprehensive support for 7.1 surround sound, ideal for audio/visual work. This is ideal for sound engineers and producers working on audio and music for TV, video games and more. It also includes selectable +24 dBu operation for compatibility with mixing consoles and high-end pro audio equipment. It also features integrated talkback and built-in cues for communicating with artists.

Build a networked studio system

One of the most unique features of the interface, is the ability to combine up to four Apollo and six UAD-2 devices. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities when it comes to high-end studio projects. The interface features two integrated Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are backward-compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 macs**. This can grow your processing power, adding fast high-bandwidth I/O and DSP as your setup grows.

Ergonomic design, versatile connectivity

The robust and rack-mountable design only takes up a single rack space within your setup. This powerful interface works great as a centrepiece for any professional studio, with illuminated controls for low-light studio sessions. The front of the interface features two Hi-Z instrument inputs located next to the large Preamp volume control.

The front panel also features built-in buttons for enabling/disabling features and parameters. This includes allowing you to turn on the Phantom Power, Pad, enable the high-pass filter and switch between inputs. There is also a crisp, detailed monitoring panel on the front that displays all the information about your volume levels, inputs and sample rate.

The rear of the Apollo x8p features six outputs for surround sound as well as dual main monitor outputs. Eight line inputs are also included as well as four XLR microphone inputs. In addition to the two Thunderbolt 3 connections, the rear features S/PDIF connectivity, Word Clock and the ADAT S/MUX connectivity.

LUNA - A powerful recording system

Work the way you want with LUNA technology. Universal Audio built their DAW, LUNA, from the ground up. Their aim is to bring audio recording into a new era. Following a high-quality range of vintage emulations and innovative plugins, it is obvious that Universal Audio don’t settle for second best and strive to give you their all. LUNA is no exception. You'll be free to integrate your favourite DSP powered plugins when recording, completely free of latency. Thanks to accelerated real-time modelling, you'll also be provided with analog-style recording and overdubbing via your Apollo's onboard DSP acceleration.

Hark back to the golden age of recording, with Neve summing from the iconic 80's series console. You'll be able to add warmth and richness to your tracks, from the very series of desk that is associated with seminal albums from the likes of Nirvana, Dire Straits, and Pink Floyd. The Studer A800 Tape Recorder extension allows you to add the warmth and punch associated with magnetic tape, introducing various levels of harmonics and saturation into your signal flow. With a highly realistic Steinway Model B piano, Moog Minimoog emulation, a wide array of premium samples from Spitfire Audio, and unlimited track count. You'll have nothing holding you back from making the greatest sounding records of your life.

Please Note: This is a free download for mac users who own a Thunderbolt Arrow or Apollo interface. It is not yet compatible for Windows.

Features

• 18 x 22 Thunderbolt 3 premium-grade audio interface
• Eight Unison enabled microphone preamps
• Experience elite-class A/D and D/A conversion nearing the widest dynamic range and lowest signal to noise ratio available — at any price
• Track and mix with powerful HEXA Core processing, featuring 6 UAD DSP chips for running more award-winning UAD Powered Plug-Ins in real time
• Record with near-zero latency through preamp emulations from Neve, API, Manley, Fender, and more using Unison™ technology*
• Easily connect to pro-level studio gear with switchable +24 / +20 dBu headroom settings
• Work in surround formats up to 7.1*, complete with speaker calibration and fold-down
• Integrated talkback and built-in cues for easy communication and slating takes
• Includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A, and 1176 compressors; Marshall Plexi Classic; Ampeg SVT-VR Classic and more
• Combine up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 total UAD devices; backward-compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 via optional adapter
• Selectable +24 dBu operation for easy compatibility with professional mixing consoles and tape machines
• Convenient front panel monitoring functions including Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and assignable Dim or Mono
• Uncompromising UA analog design, superior components, and premium build quality
• Free, industry-leading technical support — on the phone and online — from knowledgeable audio engineers

• UA 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
• Teletronix LA-2A Classic Leveler Collection
• Pultec Passive EQ Collection
• Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection
• Teletronix LA 3A Audio Leveler
• UA 610 Tube Preamp & EQ Collection
• Helios Type 69 Preamp & EQ Collection
• V76 Preamplifier
• Oxide Tape Recorder
• Pure Plate Reverb

• UA 610-B (Unison)
• 1176LN Legacy
• 1176SE Legacy
• Ampeg SVT-VR Classic (Unison)
• Marshall Plexi Classic (Unison)
• Precision Channel Strip
• Precision Reflection Engine
• Precision Delay Mod
• Precision Delay Mod L
• Pultec EQP-1A Legacy
• Pultec-Pro Legacy
• Teletronix LA-2A Legacy
• Raw Distortion (Unison)
• RealVerb Pro
• Precision Enhancer Hz
• Fairchild 670 Legacy

Specifications

• Microphone Inputs: Eight
• High Impedance (Hi-Z) Instrument Inputs: Two
• Analog Line Inputs: Eight
• Analog Line Outputs (DC coupled): Eight (ten including Monitor outputs)
• Analog Monitor Outputs (DC coupled): Two (one stereo pair)
• Headphone Outputs: Two stereo
• Digital Input Ports (TOSLINK optical): Two (ADAT or S/PDIF, selectable)
• Digital Output Ports (TOSLINK optical): Two (ADAT or S/PDIF, selectable)
• Thunderbolt 3 Ports: Two
• Word Clock One: input, one output

• Simultaneous A/D conversion: Eight channels
• Simultaneous D/A conversion: 14 channels
• Supported Sample Rates (kHz): 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
• Bit Depth Per Sample: 24
• Analog Round-Trip Latency: 1.1 milliseconds @ 96 kHz sample rate
• Analog Round-Trip Latency through four UAD legacy plug-ins (included) via Console software: 1.1 milliseconds @ 96 kHz sample rate (no additional latency via Realtime UAD Processing)

• S/PDIF:
  • Connector Type (shared with ADAT): Optical TOSLINK JIS F05
  • Format: IEC 958
  • Supported Sample Rates (kHz): 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96
• ADAT:
  • Connector Type (shared with S/PDIF): Optical TOSLINK JIS F05
  • Format: ADAT Digital Lightpipe with S/MUX
  • Supported Sample Rates (kHz): 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
  • Channel Assignments @ 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz: Port 1 = Channels 1 – 8, Port 2 = 1 – 8 (mirrored)
  • Channel Assignments @ 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz: Port 1 = Channels 1 – 4, Port 2 = Channels 5 – 8
  • Channel Assignments @ 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz: Port 1 = Channels 1 – 2, Port 2 = Channels 3 – 4
• Word Clock:
  • Connector Type: BNC
  • Lock Range: ±4 percent of any supported sample rate
  • Word Clock Input Termination: 75 Ohms, switchable

• Power Supply: External AC-to-DC Power Supply, Level VI compliant
• AC Input Connector Type: IEC Male
• AC Requirements: 100V – 240V AC, 50 – 60 Hz
• DC Connector Type: XLR 4-Pin Locking Male (Neutrik P/N NC4MDM3-H)
• DC Requirements: 12 VDC, 6A
• Maximum Power Consumption: 72W (30W typical)

• Dimensions (WxHxD): 48.26 x 4.45 x 30.80 cm
• Weight: 4.08 kg (9 lbs)
• Product Code: APX8P-HE