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Description

The Symphony I/O 2x6 empowers all that is Apogee, from legendary quality, to ultra-low latency and maximum performance. Apogee Symphony I/O is a modular multi-channel audio interface featuring premium AD/DA conversion and world-class microphone preamps. Designed to deliver professional sound quality for audio recording, mixing and mastering on a Mac, Symphony I/O is the ultimate music production centerpiece for any modern studio.

Legendary Sound Quality

Symphony I/O is the culmination of 25 years of Apogee's award-winning design experience. Using the most advanced components available, Apogee engineers created an extremely efficient circuit and power design resulting in a significant improvement in audio clarity and transparency over any previous Apogee product.

Input and Output FlexibilityThe Symphony I/O 2x6 features 2 balanced inputs, 6 balanced outputs, as well as stereo AES I/O and 8x8 optical I/O. Plenty of I/O to handle any environment from home to professional studios. The Symphony I/O 2x6 is also extremely versatile with multiple connectivity options to fit your needs.

Complete Compatibility

Connect Symphony I/O to any Apple workstation; MacBook, iMac or Mac Pro via USB, Pro Tools HD, Symphony PCI or Thunderbolt. Symphony I/O is simple to set up and easy to use.

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Symphony I/O with Dave Tozer

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O with Dave Tozer by Apogee Electronics

Apogee Symphony I/O with Dave Tozer

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Electronics

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O with Nathan Chapman and Joe West by Apogee Electronics

Apogee Symphony I/O with Nathan Chapman and Joe West

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Electronics

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony IO Overview - Sweetwater by Sweetwater

Apogee Symphony IO Overview - Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O - Ultimate Sound Quality by Apogee Electronics

Apogee Symphony I/O - Ultimate Sound Quality

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Electronics

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater Minute - Vol. 145, Apogee Symphony I/O Overview by Sweetwater

Sweetwater Minute - Vol. 145, Apogee Symphony I/O Overview

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Apogee Electronics Symphony I/O Converter: 64 Channel Audio Interface - Dubspot @ Namm 2014 by Dubspot

Apogee Electronics Symphony I/O Converter: 64 Channel Audio Interface - Dubspot @ Namm 2014

Dubspot

Dubspot

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O second module installation tutorial by Apogee Electronics

Apogee Symphony I/O second module installation tutorial

Apogee Electronics

Apogee Electronics

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O by *d.a.s. TV

Apogee Symphony I/O

*d.a.s. TV

*d.a.s. TV

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater at AES 2018: Apogee Symphony I/O MkII Dante by Sweetwater

Sweetwater at AES 2018: Apogee Symphony I/O MkII Dante

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Apogee Symphony I/O Audio Interface Overview | Full Compass by Full Compass

Apogee Symphony I/O Audio Interface Overview | Full Compass

Full Compass

Full Compass

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Apogee Symphony I/O.

Features and functionality

  • The Dante interface offers future-proofing but may lack native low-latency monitoring; users must route audio through DAW, affecting latency.

    Source
  • Apogee Control 2 software's double-layer saving system for Monitor Workflows and Snapshots can lead to confusion, as settings aren't intuitively saved together.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Thunderbolt option is limited to Mac, while the Dante option works with Windows, but Macs might need an expansion chassis for compatibility.

    Source
  • Users experience smoother operation on silicon Macs by adding Symphony to Pro Tools aggregate I/O, avoiding playback engine errors seen on Intel Macs.

    Source
  • A permissions setup is required for MK1 Symphony on silicon Macs, detailed in a document on Apogee’s website, ensuring stable operation.

    Source
  • A bug in the current Apogee Control 2 software causes delay calibration settings to reset, resolved by using an older software version provided by support.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Symphony I/O MkII with Dante is suitable for electronic ambient music, offering nuanced control for subtle changes in attack and parameter envelopes.

    Source
  • Symphony Studio is seen as suitable for home mix-only rigs needing 12x analog outs and a talkback mic but may not meet professional installation expectations.

    Source

User experience

  • The Symphony I/O MkII's Thunderbolt cards are reportedly compatible with M1 and M2 Macs, but users should verify with Apogee for assurance.

    Source
  • Users who frequently replay tracks with subtle expressive changes might need to explore project management strategies like track freezing to optimize CPU performance.

    Source
  • Users report that the Symphony Studio converters don't match the high quality of Apogee's previous products, like the Symphony MkII or Apollo interfaces.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Reinstalling the Symphony Release 5.5 DMG resolved work-halting errors for some users, highlighting the importance of keeping software up to date.

    Source

Build quality

  • The Apogee Symphony Studio lacks anti-pop circuits, leading to loud pops on startup, which some users find unacceptable for professional settings.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Apogee Electronics: Symphony I/O | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Apogee's Symphony I/O impresses as a versatile, next-gen converter with stellar sound quality. Initially perceived as catering to audiophiles, it proves itself in professional settings, boasting modular design and extensive connectivity options. Users appreciate its superior audio compared to older models, with standout low-end clarity and 3-D imaging. The inclusion of Apogee's Maestro software for easier control enhances its appeal. However, the two-knob interface may not be favored by all. Despite this, its adaptability for various DAWs and future-proof design make it a solid long-term investment for studios.

positive

Apogee Symphony I/O

soundonsound.com

The Apogee Symphony I/O shines as a top-tier audio interface with its exceptional transparency and versatile configuration options. It boasts the best-sounding converters Apogee has produced, offering superb analog and digital I/O flexibility, perfect for Mac-based DAWs and Pro Tools. However, its lack of PC compatibility and Firewire connectivity are significant drawbacks, potentially limiting its audience. Despite these limitations, its modular design and future-proof architecture make it a compelling choice for those invested in Apple ecosystems. An impressive piece for serious audiophiles seeking pristine audio quality and adaptability.

positive

Review: Apogee Symphony I/O — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Apogee Symphony I/O is a highly versatile and modular audio interface that excels in sound quality and flexibility, making it a prime choice for professional studios, especially those using Mac systems. Its modular design allows for extensive I/O configurations, catering to both serious home users and high-end studios. The unit offers multiple host options and integrates seamlessly with various systems, including ProTools and native DAWs. However, its reliance on Mac OSX may limit its appeal to Windows users, and the presence of a fan could be a minor drawback for noise-sensitive environments. Overall, the Symphony I/O delivers exceptional performance and value in the price/performance ratio, solidifying its status as a top-tier audio interface.

positive
Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 17 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
adamdavidson

The best and fastest converter with exceptional sound quality

The best & fastest converter. Calibrated 16 in + 16 out for all the gear i am using. Can't believe how good it sounds!

zxr_productions_inc

One of the Super Interfaces. But an Apogee Quatret is pretty Portable to this beast!

One of the Super Interfaces. But an Apogee Quatret is pretty Portable to this beast!

nacho_rettally

A OK

Never had an issue with this thing. Fan noise is sometimes a bit loud, even though my A/C is fully on and cold.

J

Perfect !

I have analog 8 I/O module.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Hardwell uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Hardwell

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In a recent Instagram post, Hardwell showcased his new studio, featuring the Apogee Symphony I/O.

See how Mac DeMarco uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Mac DeMarco

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Mac DeMarco

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see an Apogee Symphony behind Mac in this studio session at the 2:27 mark.

See how Flume uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Flume

Music Producer, DJ

What So Not

...
Verified via Photo

You can see Apogee Symphony under the monitor..

See how Sebastian Ingrosso uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Sebastian Ingrosso

Music Producer

Swedish House Mafia

...
Verified via Instagram

The Apogee Symphony Audio Interface is used by Sebastian Ingrosso.

See how Steve Angello uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Steve Angello

Music Producer

Swedish House Mafia

...
Verified via Twitter

"Been re-connecting the studio all day. Finally got all analogue stuff in ! Its amazing slick now :). New apogee symphony and new patch-bay.."

See how Bingo Players uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Bingo Players

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In a photo posted by Bingo Players of their music studio, the Apogee Symphony can be seen on the right. While this sound card is used while working on music at home, other photos reveal they use an Apogee Duet as well, more than likely when producing on the go.

See how Dirty South uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Dirty South

Music Producer

...
Verified via Apogeedigital

Dirty South was asked what appealed to him about getting the Symphony I/O audio interface. His reply:

"I've always heard great things about Apogee products and always wanted to one day upgrade my current setup to a higher grade interface. When I started setting up my LA studio, the Symphony I/O just came out so it was the perfect time to go for the next level interface. PCI interface is far more superior then USB and Firewire, so I'm very happy that I went for this interface."

See how Owl City uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Owl City

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Ayoungmusic

The Apogee Symphony is the last audio interface listed under "I/O" on Owl City's studio equipment list.

See how Richard Zven Kruspe uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Richard Zven Kruspe

Guitarist

Rammstein

...
Verified via reverb.com

Exclusive gear from the private collection of Richard Z. Kruspe. Has been played live or in the studio with Rammstein and Emigrate. Every item comes with a certificate of authenticity, signed by Richard himself. Symphony I/O 8 IN 24 Out, used by Richard Z. Kruspe of Rammstein & Emigrate in the studio. A signed document of authenticity is included.

See how Deniz Koyu uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Deniz Koyu

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

In this Instagram photo, on the top of the right desk rack, the Apogee Symphony I/O can be seen.

See how Zaytoven uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Zaytoven

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see it rack mounted at 0:35 of the video.

See how Markus Schulz uses Apogee Symphony I/O

Markus Schulz

Music Producer

Sipping Soma

...
Verified via Photo

The Apogee Symphony I/O is seen in Markus Schulz's studio.

Album Usage

The Apogee Symphony I/O has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Apogee Symphony I/O, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Shure SM57
Shure SM57 Dynamic Microphones
3
Apple Mac Pro (2006-2012)
Apple Mac Pro (2006-2012) Computers & Peripherals
2
AKG C414 XL II
AKG C414 XL II Condenser Microphones
2
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
2
Shure Beta 52A
Shure Beta 52A Dynamic Microphones
2
Avid Pro Tools
Avid Pro Tools DAW Software
2
Roland RE-201 Space Echo
Roland RE-201 Space Echo Effects Processors
2

Community setups

Show yours
J

jonastempel

Gear IQ 163

cope_till

cope_till

Gear IQ 415

hxs28

hxs28

Gear IQ 359

hxs28

hxs28

Gear IQ 359

1 alternative for Apogee Symphony I/O, curated by the Equipboard community.

Apogee Symphony I/O MK II

$3,111.00 - $7,495.00

Apogee engineers have made it their passion to improve every new flagship product by using the latest in electrical components and designing optimized circuitry that often exceeds the expectations of the component manufacturer. This is the Apogee Advantage. Symphony I/O Mk II is the culmination of this 30 year commitment and raises the bar on all Apogee products before it with even better audio clarity and sonic transparency. In fact, when equipped with either the new 8×8 or 16×16 Mk II I/O modules, Symphony I/O Mk II outperforms all other multi-channel audio interfaces available for Pro Tools HD or Thunderbolt based systems, making it the flagship audio interface for the entire professional audio industry and the obvious choice for countless GRAMMY winning artists, producers, songwriters and engineers.

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