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Average Price: $1,399
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$150
$501+
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Description
The Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2 is your gateway to professional-grade audio recording and production. Tailored for those who demand excellence, this Thunderbolt 2 powerhouse offers an expansive array of I/O options, perfect for capturing the full spectrum of your musical creativity. Whether you're navigating the complexities of a multi-instrumental setup or integrating into a high-end analog mixing environment, the Apollo 16 v2 stands ready to deliver pristine audio quality.
Designed to seamlessly accommodate a variety of studio configurations, this interface is ideal for musicians and producers who already boast a lineup of preamps. The Apollo 16 v2 doesn't just stop at connectivity; it brings the legendary Universal Audio touch with UAD-2 QUAD Core processing, allowing you to apply award-winning plugins in real-time. With the ability to track and mix with the same high-quality plugins used by top producers worldwide, your productions will achieve new heights of sonic clarity and depth.
Whether you're tracking live instruments or employing virtual instruments and effects, the Apollo 16 v2 ensures each element of your music is captured with the utmost fidelity. Dive into a world of unparalleled audio craftsmanship with this robust interface, and watch your studio evolve into a hub of musical innovation.
Key Features:
- Thunderbolt 2 connectivity for ultra-fast data transfer
- 16 x 16 simultaneous analog I/O
- UAD-2 QUAD Core processing for real-time plugin application
- Seamless integration with all major DAWs
- Supports up to 192kHz resolution for high-definition audio
- Comprehensive routing capabilities for flexible studio setups
Product specs
| Brand | Universal Audio |
| Model | Apollo 16 QUAD Thunderbolt 2 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Black |
| 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 v2?
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The Apollo 16 v2 connects to your computer via Thunderbolt, offering high-speed data transfer. It features 16 analog inputs and 18 analog outputs, as well as AES/EBU digital I/O, making it suitable for complex studio setups.
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Is the Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2 compatible with both Windows and macOS?
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Yes, the Apollo 16 v2 is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, providing flexibility for users across different operating systems.
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Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2 have built-in mic preamps?
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No, the Apollo 16 v2 does not include built-in mic preamps. It is designed for users who already have external preamps or other input devices.
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Can the Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2 handle high-resolution audio?
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Yes, the Apollo 16 v2 supports sample rates up to 192 kHz and 24-bit depth, ensuring high-resolution audio recording and playback.
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Does the Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2 require an external power source?
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Yes, the Apollo 16 v2 is not bus-powered and requires an external power source to operate. This ensures stable performance for professional studio use.
Videos
Universal Audio
How to Setup and Record with Apollo Interfaces and Console Software ft. Fab Dupont
Reviews
PROS
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16 line ins/outs ideal for large setups or external mixers
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Best-in-class UAD plug-ins included for versatile effects
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Easy integration with analog gear like series 500 Preamps
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Simplifies setup with no need for re-patching outboard gear
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Superior master volume response enhances studio control
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Works seamlessly with other Apollo units for a complete system
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Reliable performance with no major issues over long-term use
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Provides a cost-effective alternative to multiple pieces of equipment in a studio
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Highly regarded sound and conversion quality in professional settings
CONS
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2.
Use cases and applications
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In a live setting, DSP may be less valuable compared to using a Silicone Mac with Waves or Slate plugins, which offer no latency.
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Some owners prefer using UAD monitoring for providing latency-free plugin effects during recording, without committing them to the DAW.
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The Apollo 16 lacks preamps and non-DB25 connections, making it suitable primarily for studios with extensive outboard gear.
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Value and pricing
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With the rise of powerful native plugins and Apple Silicon, some users suggest investing in a newer Mac over Apollo's DSP hardware for cost-effectiveness.
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Used Apollo 16 MK2 units range from $1500-$2000, making them a cost-effective choice for those seeking high-quality signal cleanliness and extensive I/O.
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Comparisons
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The RME Babyface Pro FS is noted for superior sound quality and low-latency performance compared to UA Apollo interfaces, particularly when Unison technology isn't a priority.
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The Apollo x16 features newer converters, providing enhanced audio quality over the MK2, noticeable in professional studio settings.
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Some UAD plugins are so resource intensive that they occupy an entire DSP core, unlike others like certain EQs and compressors which are lighter.
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Build quality
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Some users report significant improvements in audio quality after Black Lion Audio Mods, which replace factory components with higher-quality converters and preamps.
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Software and compatibility
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Apollo interfaces can cause macOS kernel panics when waking from sleep; disabling sleep or turning off the interface nightly is advised.
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Console or Luna is recommended for hosting DSP plugins live due to minimal latency, and "Load lock" is useful for managing channel strips.
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While UAD plugins are highly regarded, alternatives are available through Plugin Alliance, though exclusive UAD plugins like the Fairchild and 1176 are not.
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Features and functionality
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The Apollo 16 allows daisy chaining of multiple interfaces via Thunderbolt, but this feature is not available for the Twin or Solo models.
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The Apollo "X" series reportedly introduces approximately 0.8 milliseconds more latency compared to older models, despite having better converters.
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The Apollo 16 is essentially a conversion unit with a volume knob, offering no built-in preamps.
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User experience
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
394
one of the best audio interfaces
I really like this interface, it has enough inputs and quite the horsepower
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Universal Audio Apollo 16 v2, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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