Apollo X Gen 2: Universal Audio Unveils New Interfaces and UAD Plug-ins
New converters, built-in room correction, new effects
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Apollo X Gen 2: Universal Audio Unveils New Interfaces and UAD Plug-ins · Source: Universal Audio
Universal Audio is proud to announce the Apollo X Gen 2 series, the next generation of its acclaimed audio interfaces for Mac- and Windows-based studios. This new series offers significant advances in audio processing, including improved AD/DA converters and a range of new features, such as integrated Sonarworks room correction, designed to further enhance the creativity of musicians and producers. There are also some new and exciting effect plug-ins and bundles. Very nice!
All About Apollo X Gen 2 and New Plug-ins
Apollo X Gen 2 With Even Better Sound
At the heart of the new Apollo X Gen 2 design are the highest quality 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A converters ever built into an Apollo. This ensures the highest precision when recording and playing back audio signals. Of particular note is the new ‘Monitor Correction’ feature, developed by Sonarworks, which allows you to calibrate your monitors, headphones and even your room in real time (!) to ensure consistent mixing and mastering quality in your own environment. This feature is even available to owners of the first generation Apollo X. That’s pretty amazing!
The new Auto Gain feature of the new console software makes setting input levels much easier. With just one click, all input levels can be set to optimum levels, which is particularly useful when working with the Unison preamp emulations from API, Neve and SSL. In addition, the Subwoofer Bass Management System allows precise control of trim, mute, solo and crossover per speaker, ensuring seamless integration of subwoofers into the monitoring system. Very exciting for surround studios.
New Audio Interfaces to Give You More Real Time
One of the most ground-breaking innovations is the ability to synchronise audio in real time via a dual USB-C port, which is particularly interesting for live performances. Apollo X Gen 2 also allows musicians and producers to store multiple plug-in scenes and recall them manually or via MIDI, providing great flexibility for your live performances.
Another new feature that will appeal to Surround users is the ability to quickly switch between different surround modes during monitoring. This makes it much easier to switch between immersive surround sound and conventional stereo monitoring.
Effects, Emulations and More for the New (and Old) Range
Like its predecessors, Apollo X Gen 2 supports over 200 UAD plug-ins for use with all major DAWs and come standard with Antares Auto-Tune. Available in VST, AU and AAX64 formats, these plug-ins include a wide range of emulations of legendary studio hardware such as Neve, API and Manley, all in renowned Universal Audio quality. And by the way: The UAD SSL 4000 E channel strip and G-Bus compressor plug-ins will also be natively available.
In addition to the Apollo X Gen 2 series, Universal Audio is also announcing new software effects, including bundles such as the Topline Vocal Suite, a comprehensive collection of tools for modern vocal production, and three new guitar amp plug-ins (Dream ’65, Ruby ’63 and Lion ’68) based on the award-winning UAFX algorithms of the company’s own hardware effect pedals, available for both Mac and Windows.
The Apollo X Gen 2 series redefines the standard for professional audio interfaces by combining the best of analogue and digital sound in a seamless workflow. With these new features and expanded support for a wide range of audio and monitoring scenarios, it offers an unrivalled solution for both professional studios and ambitious home studios. And don’t worry, Gen 1 owners haven’t been forgotten – they’ll get new software too. That’s the way it should be – and I’m happy to be able to upgrade my old hardware with the new software!
Prices and Specifications for Universal Audio and Apollo X Gen 2
All Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 audio interfaces are now available here at Thomann (affiliate) at different prices. For more information on the features of the individual interfaces and the packages, please visit the manufacturer’s website. Sonarworks add-on will be available later this year.
Find Out More About Universal Audio
- Universal Audio at Thomann
- Universal Audio product page
- More about Universal Audio
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2 responses to “Apollo X Gen 2: Universal Audio Unveils New Interfaces and UAD Plug-ins”
2 grand for a 2 channel interface? Wow! No matter if it has a processor inside. Just get an Audient for 200 and spend 1800 on a powerful laptop.
The Twin starts at $700. It’s $2k if you bundle the plugins.