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Average Price: $1,399
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Description
Step into the realm of professional audio production with the Universal Audio Apollo 16, an audio interface that bridges the gap between digital precision and analog warmth. Crafted for the discerning audio engineer, this powerhouse offers formidable UAD processing capabilities, allowing you to apply Universal Audio’s coveted plugins directly to your tracks. Whether you're integrating it into a high-end analog console or expanding your digital rig, the Apollo 16 stands as a versatile cornerstone in any studio setup. Its seamless Thunderbolt connectivity ensures ultra-low latency performance, while the impressive 16x16 analog I/O gives you the flexibility to handle large session workflows with ease.
Designed to meet the demands of modern music production, the Apollo 16 is perfect for live tracking, mixing, and mastering. The high-resolution A/D and D/A conversion ensures pristine sound quality, capturing every nuance of your performance. Whether you're recording a full band or layering synths and samples, the Apollo 16 provides the clarity and depth needed to bring your creative vision to life. Join a community of musicians and producers who trust Universal Audio to deliver unmatched audio excellence.
Key Features:
- 16 x 16 analog I/O for expansive connectivity
- Thunderbolt connectivity for low-latency performance
- Built-in UAD-2 QUAD Core DSP for real-time plugin processing
- High-resolution A/D and D/A conversion for superior sound quality
- Compatibility with Mac and Windows systems
- Direct access to Universal Audio’s acclaimed plugin library
- Front-panel monitoring controls for ease of use
Product specs
| Brand | Universal Audio |
| Model | Apollo 16 QUAD Thunderbolt 2 Audio Interface |
| Year | 2010s |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | Audio Interfaces |
| Bit Depth | 24-bit |
| Bus-Powered | No |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Computer Connectivity | Thunderbolt |
| Digital Input Format | AES/EBU |
| Digital Output Format | AES/EBU |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Format | 19-inch Rackmount |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 16 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 18 |
| Number of Channels | 38 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 2 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 2 |
| Number of Headphone Outputs | 0 |
| Number of MIDI Inputs | 0 |
| Number of MIDI Outputs | 0 |
| Number of Mic Preamps | 0 |
| Sample Rate | 192 khz |
| Simultaneous I/O | 18 x 18 |
FAQs
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What are the main connectivity options for the Universal Audio Apollo 16?
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The Universal Audio Apollo 16 connects to your computer via Thunderbolt, offering two Thunderbolt 3 ports for daisy-chaining. It also features 16 analog inputs and 18 analog outputs, with digital connectivity through AES/EBU.
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Is the Universal Audio Apollo 16 compatible with both Windows and macOS?
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Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo 16 is compatible with both Windows and macOS, providing flexibility for users on different operating systems.
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Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 support real-time processing with UAD plugins?
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Yes, the Apollo 16 supports real-time processing with UAD plugins, allowing you to monitor and record with near-zero latency using onboard DSP processing.
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What is the sample rate capability of the Universal Audio Apollo 16?
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The Universal Audio Apollo 16 supports sample rates up to 192 kHz, ensuring high-resolution audio recording and playback.
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Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 include mic preamps?
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No, the Universal Audio Apollo 16 does not include built-in mic preamps, focusing instead on high-quality line-level analog and digital I/O for professional studio setups.
Videos
Production Expert
Universal Audio Apollo 16 Review
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Apollo 16.
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
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The x16 is ideal for setups that require flexibility with different preamps and outboard gear before digital conversion.
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Owners highlight the Apollo x16 Gen 2 as a solid investment for mastering and studio work due to its conversion quality and resale potential.
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Apollo 16 is essentially a conversion box with a volume knob, ideal for studios with extensive outboard gear rather than standalone use.
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Comparisons
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Unlike the Scarlett 2i2, which has built-in preamps and direct inputs, the x16 requires external preamps for instruments like guitars.
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The Apollo x16 Gen 2 offers slightly improved stereo imaging compared to Gen 1, akin to other high-end interfaces like the Antelope Orion and Symphony.
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Antelope Discrete 8 is a comparable alternative to the Apollo 16, offering DSP features at a price point of $1599.
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MOTU 8pre-es is a recommended alternative at $1300, noted for its excellent performance outside the UAD ecosystem.
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Focusrite Clarett 8pre and Presonus 1824 or Quantum are suggested for those seeking more I/O and expandability at lower price points.
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Value and pricing
Software and compatibility
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The Apollo x16 Gen 2 boasts improved driver stability, particularly noticeable for Windows users who have experienced BSODs with earlier versions.
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It's possible to access many UA plugins through Plugin Alliance, though key UAD-exclusive plugins, like the Fairchild 660/670, remain unavailable there.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 7 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this inteview, Steve Aoki gives us a look to the main gear he use to produce records in both of his studios : The ''Neon Future Cave'' in Las Vegas, NV and the ''Dim Mak Studio'' in Los Angeles, CA.
For my interface, I’m using a Universal Audio Apollo 16 with a DSP Accelerator, which helps when I’m using my UAD plugins, and I use that for everything.
Ray Toro tweeted that "he is excited to give it a go" about the Universal Audio Apollo 16.
In this photo, on The Glitch Mob's Facebook, four Apollo 16s can be seen.
Pretty Lights utilizes the Universal Audio Apollo 16, both during live performances such as the Analog Future Tour and Episodic Tour, and in the studio with UAD plugins, as evidenced by the user-uploaded photo on Imgur.
The Universal Audio Apollo 16 is cited in the Vocals credits to Imogen Heap's song Magic Me: http://www.imogenheap.com/magicme/
I now use outboard preamps, mostly lunchbox preamps but also some rack pres, going directly into my UA Apollo 16 or via outboard EQ/compressors, such as an 1176.
Simon Posford of Shpongle features the Universal Audio Apollo 16 in his live setup, as seen on his Instagram post.
Album Usage
The Universal Audio Apollo 16 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 Universal Audio Apollo 16, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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