Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface (Essentials Edition)

The Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface is a Rackmount 18 x 24 Thunderbolt audio interface with four Unison mic preamps, elite-class conversion and the premium Essentials Edition software suite for Mac or Windows.

UA's next generation of Apollo x8 interfaces is here, for studio producers who need highest-resolution audio conversion, four Unison™ mic preamps, and HEXA Core DSP processing for recording and mixing with world-class UAD plug-ins from Auto-Tune, Neve, Manley, Avalon, SSL, and hundreds more. Trusted by top producers and engineers around the globe who need elite-class Apollo X sound and DSP power with more inputs and outputs, Apollo x8 brings legendary UA craftsmanship and the sound of the stars right to your rack. 

Esentials Edition
Featuring a selection legendary plug-in from the sound of your favorite records! Get the rich tones heard on decades of classic albums with a powerful selection of "must have" UAD plug-ins and instruments. This list will alway be evilving so it is best to always check the Universal Audio website to see the full list.  If you are looking for an expanded plug-in selection, make sure you check out the Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface (Studio Edition).

Add the World’s Most Trusted Interface to Your Rack
Universal Audio built Apollo x8 for pro and project studios where highest-quality audio is a must. With its award-winning Apollo X sound — now with unprecedented dynamic range and enhanced D/A monitoring — Apollo x8 puts authentic analog sound right in your rack.

Record Through Four Unison Preamps
With Unison™ technology, Apollo x8 lets you track in realtime with the sound of classic preamps and channel strips from Neve, Manley, API, and dozens more, giving you the same rich analog textures used on the greatest recordings of our time. 

Unlock Authentic Analog Sounds
Right out of the box, Apollo x8 gives you the tools used by the world’s best engineers. Along with included Teletronix LA-2A compressors, Pultec EQs, and amps from Fender, Marshall, and Ampeg — you can tap into the entire library of over 200 UAD plug-ins and unlock proven hit-making sounds like Ocean Way Studios, Capitol Chambers, and many more.

Hear the Details Like Never Before
Now in its Gen 2 design, Apollo x8 features UA’s highest-resolution D/A converters ever paired with Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks.® This means that when you playback your audio through monitors or headphones, you’ll not only hear the most pristine representation of your recordings, there will be no surprises when you listen to your final mix or master. 

Find Your Flow in the UAD Console App
Just like an analog studio, where a console is the heart of the workflow, Apollo x8 has a powerful digital mixing engine where you control plug-in routing and monitoring. And with the latest features like Auto-Gain, Bass Management, 7.1 Surround Sound and Plug-In Scenes, it’s easy to find a flow that fits your needs.

A Hybrid System, Made for Your Mission
Combine Apollo x8’s HEXA Core DSP with native processing from your host computer to produce large sessions with complex plug-in chains — a powerhouse hybrid workflow that outpaces any native-only recording setup.  

Expand Your Studio as You Grow
Build your studio by linking up to four Thunderbolt Apollo interfaces with up to 128 channels of premium I/O to your DAW, and control it all from your desktop using Apollo Twin or x4. So no matter how far your music takes you, an Apollo will always be in reach.   

Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface Features

• 18 x 24 Thunderbolt audio interface with HEXA Core DSP plug-in processing
• Four UnisonTM mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, eight 1/4" line inputs, two optical Toslink I/O (ADAT S/MUX), RCA coaxial I/O (S/PDIF), word clock I/O (BNC)
• Two 1/4" monitor outs, eight 1/4" line outs (ALT / 7.1 surround), two 1/4" TRS headphone outs
• Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution featuring Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates
• Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 130 dB dynamic range and astonishingly low THD of -127 dB
• Calibrate your main monitor and headphone outputs with Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks®*
• Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback for easy communication with talent
• Updated UAD Console app featuring Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration with Bass Management, immersive audio support, and more
• Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in all major DAWs
• Includes up to 50+ UAD plug-ins with Essentials+ or Studio+ Editions
• Compatible with LUNA, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more**
• Expandable with Thunderbolt Apollo interfaces or select models over Dante
• Free industry-leading technical support from knowledgeable audio engineers

Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface Includes

• Universal Audio Apollo X8 Gen 2 Audio Interface
• Essentials Edition Plug-Ins
• Power Cable
• Manufacturer Warranty