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Average Price: $1,399

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$150

$501+

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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

What are the main connectivity options for the Universal Audio Apollo 16?

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.

Is the Universal Audio Apollo 16 compatible with both Windows and macOS?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo 16 is compatible with both Windows and macOS, providing flexibility for users on different operating systems.

Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 support real-time processing with UAD plugins?

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.

What is the sample rate capability of the Universal Audio Apollo 16?

The Universal Audio Apollo 16 supports sample rates up to 192 kHz, ensuring high-resolution audio recording and playback.

Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 include mic preamps?

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.

Production Expert

Production Expert

Universal Audio Apollo 16 Review

Video thumbnail for Universal Audio Apollo 16 Review by Production Expert

Universal Audio Apollo 16 Review

Production Expert

Production Expert

Video thumbnail for MESSE13: Universal Audio Apollo 16 by sonicstate

MESSE13: Universal Audio Apollo 16

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for zZounds.com: Universal Audio Apollo 16 Audio Interface by zZounds

zZounds.com: Universal Audio Apollo 16 Audio Interface

zZounds

zZounds

Video thumbnail for Sweetwater Minute - Vol. 191, Universal Audio Apollo 16 Overview by Sweetwater

Sweetwater Minute - Vol. 191, Universal Audio Apollo 16 Overview

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Musikmesse 2013: Universal Audio Apollo 16 interface by MusicRadar Tech

Musikmesse 2013: Universal Audio Apollo 16 interface

MusicRadar Tech

MusicRadar Tech

Video thumbnail for Universal Audio Apollo 16 - Musikmesse 2013 by Sound On Sound magazine

Universal Audio Apollo 16 - Musikmesse 2013

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for Vintage King | UA Apollo 16 by Vintage King

Vintage King | UA Apollo 16

Vintage King

Vintage King

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

  • The Apollo x16 uses DB25 connectors for its 16 line level inputs and outputs, rather than traditional XLR or 1/4-inch preamp connections.

    Source
  • The Gen 2 model introduces Auto-gain and Sonarworks Sound ID compatibility, enhancing usability for studio work.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The x16 is ideal for setups that require flexibility with different preamps and outboard gear before digital conversion.

    Source
  • Owners highlight the Apollo x16 Gen 2 as a solid investment for mastering and studio work due to its conversion quality and resale potential.

    Source
  • Apollo 16 is essentially a conversion box with a volume knob, ideal for studios with extensive outboard gear rather than standalone use.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Unlike the Scarlett 2i2, which has built-in preamps and direct inputs, the x16 requires external preamps for instruments like guitars.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • Antelope Discrete 8 is a comparable alternative to the Apollo 16, offering DSP features at a price point of $1599.

    Source
  • MOTU 8pre-es is a recommended alternative at $1300, noted for its excellent performance outside the UAD ecosystem.

    Source
  • Focusrite Clarett 8pre and Presonus 1824 or Quantum are suggested for those seeking more I/O and expandability at lower price points.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The Gen 1 x16 can be found significantly cheaper than Gen 2, which is priced around 4200 euros compared to 2800 euros for Gen 1.

    Source
  • Refurbished Apollo x16 models can be found for around $1600 directly from Universal Audio on platforms like Reverb.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The Apollo x16 Gen 2 boasts improved driver stability, particularly noticeable for Windows users who have experienced BSODs with earlier versions.

    Source
  • It's possible to access many UA plugins through Plugin Alliance, though key UAD-exclusive plugins, like the Fairchild 660/670, remain unavailable there.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Universal Audio Apollo 16

soundonsound.com

The Universal Audio Apollo 16 shines as a versatile audio interface and DSP platform, offering 16 channels of high-quality analogue I/O and powerful DSP capabilities in a compact 1U package. Its standout feature is the integration of UA’s renowned plug-ins with near-zero latency, making it ideal for studios wanting a streamlined setup without unnecessary extras. However, its global plug-in switching in the Console utility is a limitation, and it lacks basic utility tools like phase metering. While it’s a strong contender for small to medium-sized studios, consider alternative setups if future-proofing and connectivity are priorities.

positive

Universal Audio: Apollo 16 Thunderbolt 2 audio interface | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The Universal Audio Apollo 16 Thunderbolt 2 impresses with expanded I/O and enhanced plug-in capacities, making it a strong choice for those seeking more from their audio interfaces. While the new converters show only slight improvements in A/D and a bit more noticeable in D/A clarity, the additional DSP power and advanced connectivity shine. However, the absence of an included Thunderbolt cable is a minor inconvenience. Overall, it's a compelling upgrade for those expanding their studio setup, though not a must-have for owners of the original model unless more I/O is needed.

positive

Review: UA Apollo 16 by Brian Bender — SonicScoop

sonicscoop.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 7 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Steve Aoki uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Steve Aoki

Music Producer, DJ

Rifoki

...
Verified via Audio Media International

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.

See how Ray Toro uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Ray Toro

Guitarist, Singer

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Twitter

Ray Toro tweeted that "he is excited to give it a go" about the Universal Audio Apollo 16.

See how The Glitch Mob uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

The Glitch Mob

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, on The Glitch Mob's Facebook, four Apollo 16s can be seen.

See how Pretty Lights uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Pretty Lights

Bassist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

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.

See how Imogen Heap uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Imogen Heap

Keyboardist, Composer

Frou Frou

...
Verified via Imogenheap

The Universal Audio Apollo 16 is cited in the Vocals credits to Imogen Heap's song Magic Me: http://www.imogenheap.com/magicme/

See how Bibio uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Bibio

Music Producer

...
Verified via Rupert Neve

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.

See how Andrew Bayer uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Andrew Bayer

Music Producer

Nimmo & Bayer

...
Verified via Instagram

Universal Audio Apollo 16 on the rack

See how Shpongle (Simon Posford) uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Shpongle (Simon Posford)

DJ

Shpongle

...
Verified via Photo

Simon Posford of Shpongle features the Universal Audio Apollo 16 in his live setup, as seen on his Instagram post.

See how Ian Kirkpatrick uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Ian Kirkpatrick

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

We can see this sweet Audio I/O in his 19-inch rack.

See how Chris Brown uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Chris Brown

Singer

...
Verified via YouTube

Throughout the video you can see Chris Brown using his Universal Apollo 16s

See how Enrico Sangiuliano uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Enrico Sangiuliano

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via Photo

Facebook post: "New studio setup in progress... #apollo16"

See how Michael Angelakos uses Universal Audio Apollo 16

Michael Angelakos

Music Producer

Passion Pit

...
Verified via Uaudio

In an article by Universal Audio, Michael Angelakos of Passion Pit discusses using the Universal Audio Apollo 16 for his recordings.

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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daveboulden

daveboulden

Gear IQ 79

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