UAD Apollo x8 Gen 2 Ess+

• Professional studio-grade Thunderbolt 3 audio interface
• Elite-class AD/DA conversion for pristine sound
• Four Unison preamps emulate classic analog tones
• Built-in HEXA Core DSP for zero-latency UAD plugins
• Includes UAD Classic Plug-in Bundle, ready to use

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Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2｜18x24 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface with UAD-2 HEXA Core Processor

Studio-Grade AD/DA Conversion and Realtime UAD Plug-in Processing, Built for Professional Workflows

The Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Ess+ is a rackmount Thunderbolt 3 audio interface from Universal Audio, featuring next-generation elite-class AD/DA conversion with top-tier specifications of 129dB Dynamic Range and -119dB THD+N. At its core, it is equipped with a powerful UAD-2 HEXA Core processor and four Unison Mic Preamps, allowing you to record and monitor sound processed by UAD plugins modeled after classic hardware from Neve, API, Manley, and more, all with near-zero latency.

Compared to traditional audio interfaces that rely solely on computer CPU performance, the Apollo x8 Gen 2 achieves a powerful hybrid workflow through its built-in DSP. Whether in the recording or mixing stage, you can run complex plugin chains extensively without burdening your computer system. For music producers who require more input channels, pursue ultimate sound quality, and prefer an analog workflow, the Apollo x8 is the ideal core for building a professional studio. Its top-tier AD/DA conversion ensures impeccable sonic purity at every stage from input to output.

Quick Facts Product Overview

Brand: Universal Audio
Model: Apollo x8 Gen 2 Ess+
Computer Connection: Thunderbolt 3
Simultaneous I/O: 18 x 24
A/D Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
Mic Preamps: 4 Unison™ Mic Preamps
Built-in DSP: UAD-2 HEXA Core Processing
Applicable Scenarios: Professional Studios, Multi-track Instrument Simultaneous Recording, Drum Recording, Mixing Workstations, External Hardware Integration

使用者建議分析(點此展開)

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適合誰購買

Music producers who need to record multiple sound sources simultaneously (e.g., drum kits, small bands) and use high-quality plugins.
Professional studios with extensive external hardware synthesizers and effects processors, requiring rich I/O for integration.
Advanced users looking to upgrade from mid-range interfaces to experience Unison preamp emulation and the powerful UAD ecosystem.

誰不適合購買

Beginners who only need 1-2 input channels for simple recording and have no specific need for the UAD plugin ecosystem.
Users whose computers do not have native Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports (connection via adapter is not supported).
Users with a limited budget who do not plan to invest in more UAD plugins in the future.

Apollo x8 Core Technologies and Features

Elite-Class AD/DA Conversion: Newly designed analog circuits provide up to 129 dB of Dynamic Range and -119 dB THD+N, delivering extremely transparent and natural sound comparable to dedicated high-end converters at any price point.
Four Unison™ Mic Preamps: Exclusive Unison technology perfectly captures the sound of classic tube and solid-state microphone preamps from Neve, API, Manley, Helios, SSL, etc., including their input impedance, "sweet spots" of gain staging, and component-level circuit behavior.
UAD-2 HEXA Core Processing: Equipped with six SHARC® DSP chips, offering 50% more DSP processing power than previous Apollo interfaces, allowing you to run a large number of UAD plugins during recording and mixing without worrying about computer CPU overload.
Surround Sound Monitoring Support: Built-in full 7.1 surround sound monitoring controller, a great boon for engineers working on game, film/TV audio, and web content production.
LUNA Recording System Integration: Deeply integrated with the Mac-exclusive LUNA recording application, offering Accelerated Realtime Monitoring™ for a truly analog-style recording and production workflow.
Expandable Recording System: Connect up to four Apollo interfaces and six UAD-2 devices via Thunderbolt, easily expanding I/O and DSP processing power as your studio needs grow.

Bundled Software: UAD Essentials Edition Plug-in Bundle

The Apollo x8 Gen 2 Ess+ comes with the UAD Essentials Edition Plug-in Bundle, including 11 classic UAD plugins, providing professional-grade tools for your music production, covering everything from preamps, compression, EQ, to reverb and delay effects.

Teletronix LA-2A Leveler Collection (3 plugins): Legendary optical compressor, bringing warm, smooth dynamic control to vocals and instruments.
Pultec Passive EQ Collection (3 plugins): Classic passive EQ, its unique "Pultec trick" is the secret weapon for shaping full low-end and silky highs.
Century Tube Channel Strip: Vintage-style tube channel strip, including preamp, EQ, and compressor, with intuitive operation and warm tone.
Oxide Tape Recorder: Provides the warmth and saturation of classic analog tape.
Galaxy Tape Echo: Recreates the psychedelic sound of classic 70s tape delay effects.
Pure Plate Reverb: Offers rich, deep plate reverb effects.
PolyMAX Synth: Vintage-style analog synthesizer with rich and versatile tones.

Technical Specifications (Tech Specs)

Computer Connection	Thunderbolt 3
Form Factor	Rackmount (1U)
Simultaneous I/O	18 In / 24 Out
A/D Resolution	Up to 24-bit / 192kHz
Built-in DSP/FX	UAD-2 HEXA Core Processing (6 x SHARC Chips)
Mic Preamps	4 (with Unison Technology Support)
Phantom Power	Yes, 4 channels
Analog Inputs	4 x XLR (Mic/Hi-Z), 8 x 1/4" TRS (Line)
Analog Outputs	2 x 1/4" (Monitor), 8 x 1/4" TRS (Line)
Digital Inputs	1 x Optical Toslink (ADAT, S/PDIF)
Digital Outputs	1 x Optical Toslink (ADAT, S/PDIF)
Headphone Output	2 x 1/4" TRS
USB Port	2 x USB-C (Thunderbolt 3)
Clock I/O	1 x BNC (Word Clock In/Out)
Bundled Software	UAD Essentials Edition Plug-in Bundle, LUNA Recording System (Mac Only)
Operating System (Mac)	macOS 10.15 or later
Operating System (PC)	Windows 10 or later (64-bit)
Power Source	12V DC Power Supply (Included)

Pros & Notes (Click to expand)

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Pros

Industry-leading AD/DA conversion technology, offering impeccable sound quality and dynamics.
Four Unison preamps provide rich classic analog tone emulation, significantly enhancing recording quality.
Powerful HEXA Core DSP processing capability, allowing for low-latency operation of numerous UAD plugins.
Rich 18x24 I/O configuration, meeting the multi-track recording and hardware integration needs of professional studios.
Supports 7.1 surround sound monitoring, suitable for film/TV audio and immersive audio production.

Notes to Know

Computer must be equipped with a native Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port; USB-C adapters are not supported.
Thunderbolt 3 cable is not included in the package and must be purchased separately.
High price point, a significant investment for beginners or users with a limited budget.

UAD Apollo x8 FAQ

Q：Can the Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Ess+ be directly connected to a PC?

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A：Yes, as long as your PC is equipped with a native Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 port. Please note that it does not support connection to a regular USB-C port via an adapter.

Q：What are the main differences between Apollo x8 and Apollo x6?

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A：The main difference lies in the I/O configuration. The Apollo x8 offers 4 Unison Mic Preamps and 8 line inputs/outputs, while the Apollo x6 has 2 Unison Preamps and 6 line inputs/outputs.

Q：I am a beginner in music production, is the Apollo x8 worth buying?

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A：For beginners seeking top-tier audio quality with a sufficient budget, it's an excellent investment. However, if your input needs are not extensive, Universal Audio's Apollo x6 or Apollo Twin series might be more cost-effective options.

Q：Can the Apollo x8's built-in DSP chip operate independently without being connected to a computer?

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A：No. The Apollo x8 must be connected to a computer via Thunderbolt 3 and use the UAD Console software or LUNA system to control DSP plugins and signal routing.

THINK2 Warranty & Support

Service Highlights

Fast Shipping: In-stock items will be shipped within 24 business hours.
Professional Technical Support: Our certified audio engineers provide consultation for installation, licensing, compatibility, and setup.
Comprehensive Warranty & After-Sales Service: Includes both manufacturer warranty and THINK2 customer support.

※ Shipping times are calculated based on business days. Actual warranty follows the manufacturer’s policy. THINK2 provides integration and support assistance.

Warranty & Return Policy

With valid proof of purchase and product serial number, customers are entitled to manufacturer warranty and THINK2 after-sales service.
DOA / Non-human defects: Within 7 days of purchase, after verification, customers may request return or replacement.
Exclusions: Damages from misuse, unauthorized modification, consumable parts, natural disasters, or improper use beyond instructions.
Application Process: Contact customer service during business hours for return instructions.
Service Coverage: Taiwan region primarily; overseas based on logistics standards.

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