Universal Audio Apollo x8p

This Thunderbolt audio interface offers exceptional recording capabilities with its 16 x 22 Thunderbolt 3 interface and class-leading 24-bit/192 KHz conversion, making it backward compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 on Mac. With UAD HEXA Core Processing, the interface allows tracking through UAD plug-ins with virtually zero latency, regardless of audio buffer size. The device also features 8 Unison-enabled mic preamps that deliver authentic preamp emulations from renowned brands like Neve, API, SSL, Manley, and Universal Audio.

In addition to its exceptional recording capabilities, this interface comes with a surround monitor controller that can handle up to 7.1 formats. It includes a “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle, which comprises of a UA 610-B Tube Preamp, Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A, and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more. The onboard UAD HEXA Core processing also provides additional mixing horsepower for major DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Ableton, and others.

The interface can be combined with up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 total UAD devices, offering greater flexibility. Additionally, the interface allows selectable +24 dBu operation, making it easy to connect with professional mixing consoles and tape machines. The front panel comes with monitoring functions like Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and assignable Dim or Mono.

This Thunderbolt audio interface features a range of inputs, including 8 x balanced 6,3 mm jack/XLR combo Mic/Line Inputs, 8 balanced via 25-pin D-sub DB25 line inputs, and 2 x unbalanced 6,3 mm jack Instrument (Hi-Z) inputs. The interface also has digital inputs (Optical TOSLINK) with ADAT: 8 channels @ 44.1 – 96 kHz, ADAT: 4 channels @ 176.4 – 192 kHz, and S/PDIF: 2 channels @ 44.1 to 96 kHz (Switchable ADAT or S/PDIF). The A to D conversion provides exceptional dynamic range, THD+N, and frequency response for mic preamps and line inputs.

The interface also has a range of outputs, including 2 x balanced 6,3 mm jack Monitor outputs, 2 stereo 6,3 mm jack Headphone outputs, and digital outputs (Optical TOSLINK) with ADAT: 8 channels @ 44.1 – 96 kHz, ADAT: 4 channels @ 176.4 – 192 kHz, and S/PDIF: 2 channels @ 44.1 to 96 kHz (Switchable ADAT or S/PDIF). The D to A conversion offers exceptional dynamic range, THD+N, and frequency response for line outputs, monitor outputs, and headphone outputs.

To use this interface, you'll need a Thunderbolt 3 cable, an internet connection to download software and authorize UAD plug-ins, and a computer with a Quad Core i7 or better processor. Mac users will require a Thunderbolt 1, 2, or 3 port, and Thunderbolt 1 and 2 connections will require an Apple Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter (not included). The interface is compatible with MacOS 10.12 Sierra or 10.13 High Sierra and Windows 10 Fall Creators Update (64-Bit Edition).