Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,742
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Universal Audio Apollo x4". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Meet the Universal Audio Apollo x4, the ultimate musical companion for both project studios and on-the-go recordists. This first-of-its-kind desktop interface from Universal Audio offers an impressive four preamp-equipped channels. Experience the finest AD/DA conversion, a low noise floor, and immediate access to the world-renowned analog-modeling UAD plugins. This isn't just a piece of equipment, it's a revolution in sound quality and convenience.
Key Features:
- First desktop interface from Universal Audio to offer four preamp-equipped channels
- Best-in-class AD/DA conversion for superior sound quality
- Low noise floor for clear, interference-free recordings
- Immediate access to Universal Audio's renowned analog-modeling UAD plugins
Product specs
| Brand | Universal Audio |
| Model | Apollo x4 QUAD Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Gray |
| Year | 2019 - 2025 |
| 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 |
| Digital Output Format | ADAT/Optical |
| Electronics | Analog, Digital, Solid State |
| Format | Desktop Standalone |
| Number of Analog Inputs | 6 |
| Number of Analog Outputs | 6 |
| Number of Channels | 28 |
| Number of Digital Inputs | 8 |
| Number of Digital Outputs | 8 |
| 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 | 12 x 18 |
FAQs
-
What are the main connectivity options for the Universal Audio Apollo x4?
-
The Apollo x4 connects to your computer via Thunderbolt 3, offering seamless integration with both Windows and macOS systems. It features 6 analog inputs and outputs, along with ADAT/Optical digital I/O for expanded connectivity.
-
How many mic preamps does the Apollo x4 have, and what is their quality?
-
The Apollo x4 includes 4 high-quality mic preamps, known for their clarity and warmth, suitable for professional recording applications. These preamps are enhanced by Universal Audio's Unison technology, providing authentic emulations of classic preamp tones.
-
Is the Universal Audio Apollo x4 compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?
-
Yes, the Apollo x4 is compatible with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, thanks to its robust driver support and Thunderbolt connectivity.
-
Does the Apollo x4 support high-resolution audio recording?
-
The Apollo x4 supports high-resolution audio recording with a sample rate of up to 192 kHz and a 24-bit depth, ensuring pristine audio quality for professional projects.
-
Can the Apollo x4 be used for mobile recording setups?
-
While the Apollo x4 is not bus-powered, it is compact and portable, making it suitable for mobile recording setups when paired with a power source, offering professional-grade audio quality on the go.
Videos
Sweetwater
Universal Audio Apollo x4 Set Up and Recording Demo
Reviews
PROS
-
Four XLR inputs reduce need for repatching
-
Quad processor handles UAD plug-ins more efficiently
-
Thunderbolt 3 offers faster connectivity
-
Unison preamps enhance recording quality
-
ADAT expandability provides additional I/O options
-
Noticeable improvement in AD conversion for clearer sound
-
Can operate without a mixer due to ample mic inputs and preamps
-
Heritage Edition includes valuable plug-ins
-
Optimized performance on Mac systems
CONS
-
Inefficient performance on Windows systems
-
Not ideal for tracking full live bands due to input limitations
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Apollo x4.
Features and functionality
-
The Apollo x4 Gen 2 has slightly improved converters and auto-gain compared to previous versions, but many users find the differences minimal.
Source -
The Apollo x4's two headphone outputs allow for independent mixes, beneficial for tracking multiple musicians simultaneously without needing extra gear.
Source -
Some users do not use the Unison preamps, preferring standard preamps for their recording needs, though others find Unison transformative for tone and character.
Source -
The Apollo x4 is considered superior to Tascam Model 24 in terms of converter and preamp quality, suggesting a potential upgrade for studio environments.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Some users suggest the Heritage Edition packages are mainly marketing tools, offering more plugins but not adding significant value compared to standard editions.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Users with a focus on real-time plugin use or requiring multiple mic inputs might prefer interfaces with higher DSP counts like the x6 HE over the x4.
Source -
The x4 is less portable due to size, making it less ideal for those needing a compact setup for travel compared to the Twin X Quad.
Source -
Users seeking high-quality ADAT preamps for the Apollo x4 suggest models like Audient ASP 880 and Focusrite Clarett+ OctoPre for expanded input options.
Source
Software and compatibility
-
UAD plugins can integrate with DAWs, but users running a cracked version of FL Studio may face compatibility issues when purchasing and registering their interface.
Source -
FireWire UAD-2 devices reportedly do not function on Apple Silicon Macs, pushing users towards Thunderbolt solutions for reliable plugin performance.
Source
Comparisons
-
The Apollo Twin Quad offers similar DSP power as the x4 but at a lower cost, making it a more budget-friendly option for those needing fewer preamps.
Source -
The x4 provides ADAT out, unlike the Twin X Quad, offering more digital output options and flexibility for expanded setups.
Source -
Users transitioning from Apollo x4 to RME Fireface 400 report satisfactory performance, indicating a viable alternative for those seeking different features or price points.
Source -
For those prioritizing plugin portability, combining an Apollo Twin with a Satellite Octo allows use of UAD plugins without dismantling studio setups.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 11 Ratings
Bad on windows, great on Mac.
Inefficient on windows. Optimized for Mac. On windows it's a random hit or miss.
Perfect Homestudio Interface
4 microphone preamps. Easy to install. Very good customer service by Universal Audio.Heritage Edition comes with great Plug-Ins.
Artist usage
Add artist
Kanye West is confirmed to have used the Universal Audio Apollo x4 during the recording of "Bully," as evidenced by an Instagram post from user theykilledryn, who shared insights into the studio setup employed for the track.
In an Instagram post by Alan Walker, the Universal Audio Apollo x4 audio interface is visible, hinting at its use in an upcoming project with ROG.
In this Instagram story shared by The Weeknd, you can see the Apollo X4 sitting next to the macbook on the desk.
In the Arte TRACKS interview titled "How PC Music defined a new kind of pop," A. G. Cook is seen using a Universal Audio Apollo x4 audio interface at the 0:06 mark.
fluff has a univeral audio x4. he mainly uses this as a monitor controllor in his home studio
At 0:14 in the video titled "How Ryan Tedder Builds a Dark Pop Track from Scratch," a Universal Audio Apollo x4 audio interface is visible on Ryan Tedder's desk, confirming its use by the artist. The video is provided by Studio on YouTube.
Album Usage
The Universal Audio Apollo x4 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 x4, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursMore Universal Audio Audio Interfaces
Accessories & Related Items
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Audio Interfaces
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
damoosicGear IQ 106
-