Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
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Price
Average Price: $2,300
High-end/Boutique
$150
$501+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Universal Audio Apollo x8". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Elevate your studio to the pinnacle of audio excellence with the Universal Audio Apollo x8 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface. This powerhouse interface combines elite-class A/D and D/A conversion with the unrivaled power of HEXA Core UAD plug-in processing, enabling music creators to achieve pristine sound quality and real-time audio processing without compromise. Whether you're tracking, overdubbing, or mixing, the Apollo x8 puts the analog tones of the world’s most legendary equipment at your fingertips, thanks to its four Unison-enabled mic preamps and comprehensive plug-in bundle.
The Apollo x8 isn't just about stellar sound quality; it's designed to seamlessly integrate into professional workflows with its +24dBu operation, dual crystal clocking for pure recordings, and extensive monitoring features including 7.1 surround sound. With its Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, expect ultra-low latency and the flexibility to expand your I/O capabilities as your studio grows. Included is UA's LUNA Recording System, offering deep integration and an analog-style recording environment that further enhances the Apollo x8’s powerful feature set.
Whether you're a seasoned engineer or a passionate musician, the Apollo x8 provides the tools you need to capture your creativity with unmatched fidelity and dynamic range. Experience the future of music production with an interface that sets new standards in audio excellence.
Key Features:
- Elite-class 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A conversion
- HEXA Core UAD plug-in processing for near-zero latency
- Four Unison-enabled mic preamps for tracking through precise emulations of classic preamps
- Integrated monitor controller with built-in talkback mic for seamless communication
- Dual crystal clocking for low-jitter, artifact-free recordings and stable stereo imaging
- 7.1 surround sound monitoring support, ideal for mixing for film, TV, and web
- Selectable +24dBu operation for compatibility with professional studio gear
- Thunderbolt 3 connectivity for ultra-fast, low-latency performance
- Realtime Analog Classics Plus UAD plug-in bundle included
- Compatible with UA’s LUNA Recording System for a tightly integrated recording environment
Product specs
| Brand | Universal Audio |
| Model | Apollo x8 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2018 - 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, 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 24 |
FAQs
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How many mic preamps does the Universal Audio Apollo x8 have?
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The Universal Audio Apollo x8 features four Unison-enabled mic preamps, allowing you to record with the sound of classic analog preamps and channel strips.
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What type of connectivity does the Apollo x8 offer?
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The Apollo x8 connects to your computer via Thunderbolt 3, ensuring high-speed data transfer and low-latency performance.
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Is the Universal Audio Apollo x8 compatible with both Windows and macOS?
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Yes, the Apollo x8 is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems, providing versatile integration for different studio setups.
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What are the digital input and output options on the Apollo x8?
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The Apollo x8 supports ADAT/Optical and S/PDIF digital input and output formats, offering flexible connectivity for various digital audio devices.
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Can the Apollo x8 handle high sample rates?
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Yes, the Apollo x8 supports sample rates up to 192 kHz, allowing for high-resolution audio recording and playback.
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Does the Apollo x8 require an external power supply?
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Yes, the Apollo x8 is not bus-powered and requires an external power supply for operation.
Videos
30KillaBeatz
Universal Audio Apollo x6 & x8 | BEST Audio Interface ?
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional A-D conversion quality and overall sound
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Compatible with Thunderbolt 3 for fast connections
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Easy expansion through ADAT optical ports for additional inputs
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Unison plugins enhance recording and production capabilities
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Increased stereo width and depth compared to previous models
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Simplified integration with analogue preamps
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Enhanced versatility with the expansion of Cues from 2 to 4
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High-quality digital conversion closely matches top competitors
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Supports a closed eco-system with exclusive plugins and features
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Allows for significant studio setup expansion
CONS
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High price point compared to some competitors
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Dependency on UA's closed plugin ecosystem could limit flexibility
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Some users prefer competitors like RME for specific features
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Apollo x8.
Comparisons
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Owners note that the Antelope preamp and converter combination may sound slightly more open compared to the Apollo X8, though differences are minimal.
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The Apollo 8 is noted as having inferior conversion compared to newer Scarlett Gen 3 interfaces, which are both newer and more affordable.
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The Audient iD48 is considered a more affordable alternative, potentially offering better converters and mic pres than the Apollo x8p.
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Features and functionality
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Some users appreciate the Apollo X8's ability to track through UAD plugins, offering real-time monitoring capabilities with latency adjusted via a "live" button.
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Unison preamps are available by default, but additional plugins must be purchased separately to utilize the full Unison experience.
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The Apollo x8p offers +24dB in/out for outboard gear, which is not common in many interfaces, allowing for full signal strength.
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Software and compatibility
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The UAD console is preferred for real-time monitoring with effects like reverb and delay, but UAD's native pivot may influence hardware investment decisions.
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Compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 is possible via an adapter, but Thunderbolt 4 support is not available for older Apollo models.
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User experience
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Users have highlighted that UA's support is commendable, and their units can be upgraded from Firewire to Thunderbolt, indicating some level of future-proofing.
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Owners appreciate the flexibility to upgrade connection options from Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 via an option card, aiding in future-proofing.
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Owners note that the difference between Unison preamps and native plugins is minimal, suggesting alternatives may offer better value.
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Use cases and applications
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The Apollo X8 is considered a solid choice for users needing low latency monitoring and the ability to work seamlessly with the UA Sphere mic.
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A studio setup with Apollo 8 and 16 connected to a patch bay allows seamless integration with different consoles for quick setup in various studios.
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The Apollo's ability to combine multiple units into one system is highlighted as a key advantage for expanding studio setups.
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Value and pricing
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Buying a used Apollo 8 for $1500 CAD is considered overpriced, with suggestions to look for more updated models like the Apollo X series for similar pricing.
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The price of $2200 for an almost new x8p Gen 1 is seen as high, with suggestions to find it $200 cheaper on platforms like Reverb.
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Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
121
HUGE STEP UP FROM MY OLD SILVERFACE APOLLO
I've been using the Silverface Apollo for the last several years and was pretty disappointed in the quality, especially comparing it to my business partner's Apogee Symphony (first version). I was about to sell my silver face to get the Symphony myself, but I also had an opportunity to trade the Silverface in towards the new X8. I opted to try the X8 after the rep swore to me that they completely upgraded the converters and gave more headroom. I gave it a try and I'm glad I did! the conversion is WAY closer to the Apogee Symphony than the old version. It was literally like pulling a blanket from over my speakers!!! I couldn't believe the difference. More natural, 3d and more "space" for lack of a better term. You can't go wrong with this new Apollo X line up! for even more headroom look in to the Apollo X16
Artist usage
Add artist
Paul McCartney is mentioned in the Hog Hill Mill Blog as using the Universal Audio Apollo x8 audio interface in his studio setup.
In a Twitter post by Kygo, a Universal Audio Apollo x8 Audio Interface is visible on his studio table, hinting at its use in his music production setup.
In this photo of J. Cole in the studio, to his right a Universal Audio Apollo x8 interface can be seen, stacked on top of the blue TUBE-TECH CL-1B compressor.
In the YouTube video "Plugged In: Kenny Beats (S02 E02) | American Professional II Series | Fender," at the 2:41 mark, music producer Kenny Beats confirms his use of the Universal Audio Apollo x8.
In the YouTube video "Making of 'LET'S PRAY,'" DJ Khaled is seen using a Universal Audio Apollo x8 audio interface at the 2:30 mark in his studio.
At 1:50 he pans the camera to the rack and says: "This is my guy, this guy goes everywhere with me..." In the context of the rack it would make more sense to have an x8 rather than an x8p but due to the low video quality i can not confirm that 100%.
In this TikTok at 0:05, keshi shows his outboard gear, which includes the Universal Audio Apollo x8p.
Album Usage
The Universal Audio Apollo x8 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 x8, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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