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Description

When it comes to audio interfaces that push the boundaries of studio recording, the Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 is in a class of its own. This powerhouse is designed for musicians and producers who demand nothing less than pristine sound quality and cutting-edge technology. With 12 high-end mic preamps and an array of connectivity options, including Thunderbolt and USB, the Orion Studio effortlessly integrates into any recording environment.

The secret weapon behind its near-zero latency performance is Antelope's proprietary FPGA technology, which enables real-time application of an extensive suite of vintage effects. Whether you're craving the warmth of a Pultec EQ or the punch of an analog compressor, the Orion Studio delivers with remarkable authenticity. Its robust routing capabilities are a dream for studio engineers, offering a color-coded matrix view for intuitive control over your audio signal paths.

The Orion Studio isn't just about incredible sound; it's about workflow efficiency too. The advanced remote apps for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android provide complete control from any device, making session management a breeze. Plus, with the ability to save and share session presets, you can easily recall your favorite setups at a moment's notice.

Key Features:

  • 12 high-end mic preamps with phantom power
  • FPGA-powered latency-free modeling engine with vintage EQs, compressors, and reverbs
  • Thunderbolt and USB connectivity
  • Dual mastering-quality monitor outputs with 129dB dynamic range
  • 2 reamp outputs and integrated talkback microphone
  • Advanced remote apps for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android
  • Antelope's Acoustically Focused Clocking (AFC) technology
  • Color-coded software-based routing matrix with 4 independent mixers
  • ADAT and S/PDIF I/O, Word Clock I/O

Product specs

Brand Antelope Audio
Model Orion Studio Rev 2017 Thunderbolt / USB Audio Interface
Finish Black
Year 2017 - 2018
Categories Audio Interfaces
Bit Depth 24-bit
Bus-Powered No
Compatibility Windows, iOS, macOS
Computer Connectivity Thunderbolt, USB
Digital Input Format ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Digital Output Format ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Electronics Analog, Digital, Solid State
Format 19-inch Rackmount
Number of Analog Inputs 12
Number of Analog Outputs 20
Number of Channels 32
Number of Digital Inputs 18
Number of Digital Outputs 18
Number of Headphone Outputs 2
Number of MIDI Inputs 0
Number of MIDI Outputs 0
Number of Mic Preamps 12
Sample Rate 192 khz
Simultaneous I/O 30 x 32

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017?

The Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 offers Thunderbolt and USB connectivity, making it compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. This ensures high-speed data transfer and flexibility for various studio setups.

How many mic preamps does the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 have?

The Orion Studio Rev. 2017 is equipped with 12 mic preamps, providing ample input options for recording multiple sources simultaneously with high-quality sound.

Is the Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 suitable for high-resolution audio recording?

Yes, the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 supports recording at a sample rate of up to 192 kHz and a bit depth of 24-bit, allowing for high-resolution audio capture.

Does the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 require an external power supply?

Yes, the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 is not bus-powered and requires an external power supply to operate.

Can the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 be used for both analog and digital recording?

Absolutely, the Orion Studio Rev. 2017 features both analog and digital electronics, with 12 analog inputs and 18 digital inputs/outputs for versatile recording options.

Antelope Audio

Antelope Audio

Introducing Orion Studio - Revision 2017 | Antelope Audio

Video thumbnail for Introducing Orion Studio - Revision 2017 | Antelope Audio by Antelope Audio

Introducing Orion Studio - Revision 2017 | Antelope Audio

Antelope Audio

Antelope Audio

Video thumbnail for ANTELOPE ORION STUDIO REV.2017 | 1 year later review & thoughts. by Lewis Texidor

ANTELOPE ORION STUDIO REV.2017 | 1 year later review & thoughts.

Lewis Texidor

Lewis Texidor

Video thumbnail for MESSE 2017: Antelope Audio Orion Studio Updated by sonicstate

MESSE 2017: Antelope Audio Orion Studio Updated

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev  2017 - Musikmesse 2017 by Bax-shop | Bax Music Goes

Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev 2017 - Musikmesse 2017

Bax-shop | Bax Music Goes

Bax-shop | Bax Music Goes

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017.

Use cases and applications

  • Orion Studio is praised for its performance in recording long classical festivals, handling over 20 rehearsals and concerts without issues.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Antelope's Windows driver support is criticized, contrasting with RME, praised for consistently updating drivers even for 15-year-old interfaces.

    Source
  • AFX-2-DAW, initially priced around $300, is currently available only for Mac, leaving Windows users dissatisfied with limited software support.

    Source
  • The Orion Studio Rev. 2017 lacks the ability to switch mic/line inputs in recent software versions, a critical bug unaddressed for over a year.

    Source
  • Factory resets and updated Orion control software can resolve many initial setup issues and performance problems.

    Source
  • Reinstallation of Antelope software and drivers can resolve functionality issues, contrary to initial tech support advice.

    Source
  • The Orion Phone App formerly allowed mic/line input changes but has been unsupported for over two years, despite some users recently relying on it.

    Source

User experience

  • Thunderbolt connectivity issues lead some users to revert to backup interfaces like Audiofuse, citing better reliability despite lower pro-grade status.

    Source
  • Owners express frustration with Antelope's registration process, impacting device resale value due to potential launcher updates disrupting functionality.

    Source
  • Users report that the sound quality and routing options of Antelope gear are exceptional, with 12 preamps fitting into a single rack space.

    Source
  • Owners have shared experiences of Antelope's problematic customer support, with slow response times and inconsistent troubleshooting guidance.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Orion Studio Rev. 2017 struggles with sample rate synchronization on USB, causing issues like dropping sync at 48kHz.

    Source
  • Antelope's FPGA plugins are highly regarded, though their software interface and control matrix receive significant criticism for being poorly designed.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Users switching from Antelope to Apogee report zero operational issues, contrasting with the problematic experience of Orion Studio Rev. 2017.

    Source
  • Antelope's converters and clocking are described as top-notch, rivaling more expensive systems like HDX.

    Source
  • Users who switched from Antelope to UAD Apollo Twin report improved ease of use and smoother integration with DAWs like Logic on Mac.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Clicking in audio was reported during long recording sessions, resolved by power cycling and ensuring correct sample rates.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 offers stellar sound quality and a robust array of features, including free high-quality DSP effects and a vast I/O complement. However, setting it up can be a frustrating experience, with a notoriously buggy installation process that may require multiple attempts and even additional equipment to resolve. Once operational, it performs reliably and impressively, but the initial hurdles make it a tough recommendation for those who value seamless setup. The interface is a worthy investment if you can endure the initial challenges.

Orion Studio Rev. 2017 Thunderbolt and USB Studio Interface – MusicPlayers.com

musicplayers.com

The Antelope Audio Orion Studio Rev. 2017 is a powerhouse audio interface, boasting stellar sound quality with a dynamic range bumped up to 124dB. Its versatility shines with Thunderbolt and USB connectivity, and a robust set of effects, preamps, and amp modeling. While the front panel controls can be unintuitive and the documentation a bit sparse, the software interface is elegant once mastered. With nearly zero latency and multiple channel options, it's a pro studio essential, albeit at a premium price. Overall, a top-tier choice for those seeking professional-grade audio solutions.

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