Universal Audio APX16 Apollo x16 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface (Rack/Mac/Win)
Vendor: Universal Audio
Available
Universal Audio APX16 Apollo x16 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface (Rack/Mac/Win)
16 Channels of Elite Audio Conversion, HEXA Core Processing, and Surround Sound Monitoring
The Universal Audio APX16, or also name as the Apollo x16, is a flagship designed for allowing the post-production studios, music project and producers to mix, track, and overdub with the latest D/A and A/D conversion, 7.1 surround sound monitoring, Dual-Crystal clocking, and HEXA Core UAD plug-in processing - all enclosed in a sleek rackmount Thunderbolt 3 audio interface for PC or Mac.
The Universal Audio APX16 is created upon UA’s 60-year heritage of audio craftsmanship, so this 18 x 20 interface performs in the widest dynamic range (133 dB) and lowest THD+N (-129 dB), even with the use of any integrated audio interface on the market. Additionally, is its all-new HEXA Core processing, means that in real time the users can get 50% more DSP for running acclaimed UAD Powered Plug-Ins.
The Universal Audio APX16 is making the users capable to:
- Record with elite-class A/D and D/A conversion — nearing the widest dynamic range and lowest noise available, at any price
- Track with near-zero latency through Unison™ preamp emulations from Neve, API, Manley, Helios, Fender, and more
- Mix with powerful HEXA Core processing, featuring 6 UAD DSP chips for running more UAD Powered Plug-Ins in real time
- Integrate with high-end commercial systems, via 5.1 surround sound monitoring and selectable +24 dBu headroom
UA’s Flagship A/D and D/A Conversion
The Apollo are knowledgeable about tracking stellar-sounding records with its thousands of chart-topping songs and hundreds of Grammy-winning albums under their belt. For more improvements that the previous generation Apollo interface’s class-leading audio conversion, the UA engineers are work so very hard and auditioned the latest D/A and A/D converters - which can ultimately pairing elite-class 24-bit/192 kHz converters with all-new analog circuitry for an ultra-pristine signal path.
The Apollo X series also introduces their latest Dual-Crystal clocking, which comes with dedicated crystals for 48/96/192k and 44.1/88.2/176.4k sample rates, this results in a stunningly low jitter, measured at less than 10 picoseconds. This converts into artifact-free, pure recordings and solid stereo imaging you can trust.
With THD+N of -129 dB and 133 dB dynamic range, the Universal Audio APX16's natural, open sound quality is on the top of every interface in its class, available at a every affordable price, it is the perfect starting point for applying UAD processing.
Realtime UAD HEXA Core Processing
Apollo x16 features new HEXA Core processing, with six DSP chips and 50% more UAD plug-in processing power than previous Apollos. This lets you run more UAD plug-ins, whether you’re tracking in real time with channel strips from Neve, Manley, or API, or running high UAD plug-in counts when mixing in your DAW.
From the tube warmth of Pultec EQs on guitars to the musical tube limiting of the LA-2A on vocals, or the pump of a genuine 1176 or Fairchild 670 tube compressor on drums, your recordings will take a giant leap forward with a rich, three-dimensional analog sound that UAD plug‑ins provide.
A Full Suite of Classic Analog Processing Onboard
Of course, a hallmark feature of Apollo is its Realtime UAD Processing, letting you run the full library of UAD plug-ins with near-zero latency. Apollo x16 includes the Realtime Analog Classics Plus plug-in bundle, so you can record and mix with the world’s only authentic Teletronix LA-2A, 1176LN, and Fairchild compressors, Pultec EQs, and many more.
Access the World of UAD Powered Plug-Ins
Going beyond the included Realtime Analog Classics Plus plug-ins, Apollo x16 lets you tap into the full UAD Powered Plug-In library of legendary vintage EQs, compressors, reverbs, tape machines, channel strips, and more — at near-zero latency, regardless of your audio software’s buffer size and without taxing your computer’s CPU.
With exclusive emulations from SSL, Neve, Studer, Manley, Helios, API, Ampex, Lexicon, Fender, and more,† it’s like having a studio full of iconic analog gear, in a single rack space. And unlike competing interfaces, these award-winning DSP-powered plug-ins are also available in your DAW for mixing.
Surround Sound, Talkback, and More
The Apollo x16 features built-in front-panel monitoring functions including a Talkback mic, Alt Speakers, and assignable Dim or Mono control. Plus, with its comprehensive 7.1 surround monitoring support, Apollo x16 is a boon for engineers and producers working on audio and music for video games, television, and the web. In addition, Apollo x16 offers selectable +24 dBu operation for out-of-the-box compatibility with professional mixing consoles and other high-end pro audio equipment.
Build an Expanded Studio System Over Thunderbolt
Apollo x16 offers 18 x 20 simultaneous inputs/outputs (16 x 16 analog I/O) and two built-in Thunderbolt 3 ports. This allows users of any Thunderbolt-equipped Apollo Twin or Apollo rackmount audio interfaces to easily combine up to four Apollos and six total UAD-2 devices — adding fast, high-bandwidth I/O and DSP as your studio grows.
Apollo: The Choice of New-School Professionals
Apollo is the confirmed choice of hit-making professionals, used to record landmark albums by Kendrick Lamar (DAMN.), Chris Stapleton (From A Room: Volume 1), Arcade Fire (Everything Now), Post Malone (Beerbongs & Bentleys), and many more. The Apollo range of interfaces has earned numerous industry awards from Sound on Sound, Future Music, and Electronic Musician — as well as the prestigious 2016 TEC Award for computer audio hardware.
Apollo x16 Features & Specs
- 18 x 20 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with class-leading 24-bit/192 KHz conversion (backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 1 & 2 on Mac)
- HEXA Core Realtime UAD Processing for tracking through UAD plug-ins at near-zero latency, regardless of audio buffer size
- Surround monitor controller up to 7.1 format
- Includes the "Realtime Analog Classics Plus" UAD plug-in bundle. Other UAD plug-ins sold separately.
- UAD-2 HEXA Core processing onboard for additional mixing horsepower for Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Ableton, and other major DAWs
- Combine up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 total UAD devices
- 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
Interface Specifications
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Inputs Line Inputs (DB25) 16 Balanced via (2) 25-pin D-sub Digital Inputs (XLR) AES/EBU: 2 channels @ 44.1 – 192 kHz A to D Conversion Line Inputs Dynamic Range: 124 dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -115 dB (0.00018%)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.05 dBOutputs Line Outputs (DB25) 16 Balanced via (2) 25-pin D-sub Monitor Outputs (XLR) 2 Balanced (Left/Right) Digital Outputs (XLR) AES/EBU: 2 channels @ 44.1 – 192 kHz D to A Conversion Line Outputs Dynamic Range: 127 dB (A-weighted)
THD+N: -123 dB (0.00007%)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.02 dBMonitor Outputs Dynamic Range: 133 dB
THD+N: -129 dB (0.00004%)
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.02 dB
Apollo X Series System Requirements
ALL:
- Thunderbolt 3 cable (not included)
- Internet connection to download software and authorize UAD plug-ins
- 6 gigabytes available storage
- Quad Core i7 or better processor recommended
- For additional compatibility information, visit help.uaudio.com
- Available Thunderbolt 1, 2, or 3 port
- Thunderbolt 1 and 2 connections require an Apple Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter (not included)
- macOS 10.12 Sierra, 10.13 High Sierra, or 10.14 Mojave
- Available Thunderbolt 3 port
- Windows 10 (64-Bit Edition)