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Average Price: $999

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$150

$501+

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Description

Elevate your studio recording experience with the Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface. Designed for the discerning audiophile and dynamic producer, this sleek interface harmonizes high-quality preamps with robust processing power. It's not just about the specs; it's about transforming your music into a masterpiece with ease and precision. Whether you're tracking, mixing, or mastering, the Apollo 8 QUAD is your studio's sonic backbone, offering unparalleled audio fidelity and flexibility. Experience the fusion of advanced technology and musical creativity, where every note is captured with clarity and warmth.

Key Features:

  • Four high-quality onboard mic preamps ensure crystal-clear recording quality.
  • Equipped with four SHARC processors for powerful DSP, enabling real-time UAD processing.
  • Optional Thunderbolt connectivity for ultra-fast data transfer speeds, enhancing workflow efficiency.
  • Unrivaled audio conversion for pristine sound quality in every session.
  • Seamless integration with leading DAWs, providing flexibility across various recording environments.
  • Comprehensive control software for easy setup and configuration, putting essential settings at your fingertips.

Product specs

Brand Universal Audio
Model Apollo 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Finish Silver
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 ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Digital Output Format ADAT/Optical, S/PIDF
Electronics Analog, Digital, Solid State
Format 19-inch Rackmount
Number of Analog Inputs 8
Number of Analog Outputs 10
Number of Channels 54
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 4
Sample Rate 192 khz
Simultaneous I/O 18 x 20

FAQs

What are the main connectivity options for the Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD?

The Apollo 8 QUAD connects to your computer via Thunderbolt, offering high-speed data transfer. It features 8 analog inputs, 10 analog outputs, and digital I/O options including ADAT/Optical and S/PIDF.

Is the Apollo 8 QUAD compatible with both Windows and macOS?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems, making it versatile for different studio setups.

How many mic preamps does the Apollo 8 QUAD have?

The Apollo 8 QUAD is equipped with 4 high-quality mic preamps, allowing you to connect multiple microphones directly for recording.

What is the sample rate capability of the Apollo 8 QUAD?

The Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD supports a maximum sample rate of 192 kHz, ensuring high-resolution audio recording and playback.

Does the Apollo 8 QUAD require an external power source?

Yes, the Apollo 8 QUAD is not bus-powered and requires an external power source to operate, providing stable performance for professional use.

Production Expert

Production Expert

Real World Review Of Universal Audio Apollo 8 & 8P

Video thumbnail for Real World Review Of Universal Audio Apollo 8 & 8P by Production Expert

Real World Review Of Universal Audio Apollo 8 & 8P

Production Expert

Production Expert

Video thumbnail for Universal Audio Apollo 8 & The SUM Cable | Pro Audio LA by Pro Audio L.A.

Universal Audio Apollo 8 & The SUM Cable | Pro Audio LA

Pro Audio L.A.

Pro Audio L.A.

Video thumbnail for Universal Audio - Apollo 8 Thunderbolt Interface - Overview by MediaCast TV

Universal Audio - Apollo 8 Thunderbolt Interface - Overview

MediaCast TV

MediaCast TV

Reviews

PROS

  • Offloads plugin processing from computer, allowing extensive use of UA plugins

  • No need for a physical mixer with direct A/D bypass option for analog recording

  • Supports full drum kit and scratch track recording simultaneously

  • Customizable routing capabilities enhance recording and mixing flexibility

  • Direct recording through plugins without latency

  • Multiple headphone outputs facilitate easier monitoring

  • Enables creation of virtual cue mixes for better session control

  • Uses DSP-powered UAD2 plugins for high-quality effects

  • Durable build quality described as "bullet proof"

CONS

  • Adding plugins directly to tracks can slow down CPU on less powerful computers

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface.

Features and functionality

  • The Apollo 8's unison preamps and ability to use a wider range of plugins, especially AMS ones, are highly valued for recording and mixing.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Upgrading the Thunderbolt card to TB3 is preferred for compatibility with newer hardware, especially for PC users with TB4 ports.

    Source
  • Using the Apollo 8 with Windows can be challenging; avoid the latest Thunderbolt drivers and stick to those from the MSI website for better compatibility.

    Source
  • Configurations on MSI motherboards may require disabling "Thunderbolt Boot Support" for the Apollo 8 to function properly.

    Source
  • Users report that custom-built PCs with built-in Thunderbolt ports, like the Asus Proart motherboard, offer better compatibility with Apollo interfaces than add-on cards.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners enjoy tracking with EQ/Compression during recording, making the Apollo 8 a preferred choice for those seeking an analog feel.

    Source

Build quality

  • Concerns about input jack durability arise after extensive use, but those lasting 10 years are likely to continue performing well.

    Source

User experience

  • Multiple owners report the Apollo 8 as a reliable daily driver, even when used extensively or in setups that remain active all day.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • For €600, the Apollo 8 is seen as a great deal compared to newer models priced over €3,000, with only minor sonic differences.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Upgrading to a Thunderbolt 3 add-on card for the Apollo 8 is recommended for improved performance on modern MSI motherboards.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some users report needing specific BIOS changes on MSI motherboards to ensure smooth operation of Apollo interfaces.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Vulfpeck uses Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface

Vulfpeck

Bassist, Drummer

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen clearly at 1:53 of this video.

See how B-Front uses Universal Audio Apollo 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface

B-Front

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

0:30 you can see the rack on his desk.

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 8 QUAD Thunderbolt Audio Interface, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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