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Apollo X8 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface
Elite, class-leading audio conversion
The Apollo x8 is one of the latest additions to Universal Audio’s revered Apollo series. The Apollo interface series is renowned for its exceptional audio fidelity and class-leading audio conversion. The Apollo x8 builds on this by incorporating new real-time UAD HEXA core processing. It delivers elite-class audio conversion as well as the ability to record with near-zero latency through the included preamp emulations.
The custom A/D and D/a converters provide high-end 24-bit/192kHz audio fidelity. The all-new analog circuitry delivers exceptional sound reproduction providing pristine sound. The interface provides a 129 dB dynamic range and -118 dB THD+N, making it perfect for a wide range of sound sources. The 18 x 24 interface includes two Unison-enabled mic preamps as well as switchable headroom settings for pro-level studio gear.
Four unison microphone preamps provide pristine sound
Universal Audio’s Unison microphone preamp technology delivers exceptional sound reproduction with strict attention to detail. The Unison technology allows you to use your Unison-enabled mic preamp simulations with your microphone. The custom technology allows you to faithfully recreate the sweet tones of classic studio gear and preamps.
Realtime UAD HEXA core processing
The Apollo x8 features all-new HEX Core processing. This unique technology utilises six DSP chips , giving you the ability to run more UAD plugins simultaneously.
The UAD plugins available provide real-time processing of your sound sources. They span from classic recreations of Pultec EQs to cutting-edge preamp emulations. This takes your recording capabilities to the next level allowing you to achieve rich, three-dimensions analog sound.
Analog classic plus UAD plug-in bundle
The Apollo x8 comes complete with the Realtime Analog Classic Plus plug-in bundle. This bundle includes faithful recreations of classic outboard gear including authentic emulations of the Teletronix LA-2A, 1176LN and Fairchild compressors. It also boasts guitar and bass amp emulations form Marshall and Ampeg for classic-sounding instrument tones. The bundle provides you with definitive emulations of the most iconic analog signal processors in recording history.
Additional UAD plugins are available from a versatile library of exclusive emulations. The emulations span some of the most iconic outboard gear and signal processors. The meticulously crafted emulations are designed to sound and react like the hardware they are based on. It virtually gives you a studio full of iconic analog gear in a single rack space.
Surround sound monitoring and +24dBu operation
The interface also provides comprehensive support for 7.1 surround sound, ideal for audio/visual work. This is ideal for sound engineers and producers working on audio and music for TV, video games and more. It also includes selectable +24 dBu operation for compatibility with mixing consoles and high-end pro audio equipment. It also features integrated talkback and built-in cues for communicating with artists.
Build A networked studio system
One of the most unique features of the interface, is the ability to combine up to four Apollo and six UAD-2 devices. This opens up a whole new world of possibilities when it comes to high-end studio projects. The interface features two integrated Thunderbolt 3 ports, which are backwards-compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 macs**. This can grow your processing power, adding fast high-bandwidth I/O and DSP as your setup grows.
Ergonomic design, versatile connectivity
The robust and rack-mountable design only takes up a single rack space within your setup. This powerful interface works great as a centrepiece for any professional studio, with illuminated controls for low-light studio sessions. The front of the interface features two Hi-Z instrument inputs located next to the large Preamp volume control.
The front panel also features built-in buttons for enabling/disabling features and parameters. The buttons included allowing you to turn on the Phantom Power, Pad, enable the high-pass filter and switch between inputs. There is also a crisp, detailed monitoring panel on the front which displays all the information about your volume levels, inputs and sample rate.
The rear of the Apollo x8 features six outputs for surround sound as well as dual main monitor outputs. Eight line inputs are also included as well as four XLR microphone inputs. In addition to the two Thunderbolt 3 connections, the rear features S/PDIF connectivity, Word Clock and the ADAT S/MUX connectivity.
Townsend Labs Sphere L22
Limitless recording
The Sphere L22 has a stock library of 34 microphones, allowing you to recreate classic recording pickup from mics famous for their unique and sought-after qualities. The included plugin allows you to select the microphone emulation both before and after the recording has taken place. Use the Sphere plug-in to precisely edit polar patterns and other off-axis characteristics with a visually informative polar meter that displays the level and directions of sound being picked up. If you're recording via a Universal Audio interface, you can also monitor in real-time with zero latency.
Utility and Prescision
The Sphere enables you to mix and match microphones to create unique tonal blends. The level of manipulation on offer is unparalleled compared to other modelling microphones. You'll be able to adjust the proximity, change the polar pattern, switch the axis and filter, and change microphones. Twist the capsule on its side to engage stereo mode. This picks up signals from both sides of the capsule for perfectly consistent phase coherent recordings.
More info here:Townsend Sphere L22 Condenser Mic
Features
Apollo X8 Thunderbolt 3 Audio Interface
- 18 x 24 Thunderbolt 3 premium-grade audio interface
- Four Unison-enabled microphone preamps
- Experience elite-class A/D and D/A conversion nearing the widest dynamic range and lowest signal-to-noise ratio available — at any price
- Track and mix with powerful HEXA Core processing, featuring 6 UAD DSP chips for running more award-winning UAD Powered Plug-Ins in real time
- Record with near-zero latency through preamp emulations from Neve, API, Manley, Fender, and more using Unison™ technology*
- Easily connect to pro-level studio gear with switchable +24 / +20 dBu headroom settings
- Work in surround formats up to 7.1*, complete with speaker calibration and fold-down
- Integrated talkback and built-in cues for easy communication and slating takes
- Includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle featuring UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A, and 1176 compressors; Marshall Plexi Classic; Ampeg SVT-VR Classic and more
- Combine up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 total UAD devices; backward-compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 via optional adapter
- Selectable +24 dBu operation for easy compatibility with professional mixing consoles and tape machines
- Convenient front panel monitoring functions including Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and assignable Dim or Mono
- Uncompromising UA analog design, superior components, and premium build quality
- Free, industry-leading technical support — on the phone and online — from knowledgeable audio engineers
Townsend Labs Sphere L22
- Change mic type, polar pattern, and other microphone characteristics before and after recording
- Cutting-edge microphone modeling technology
- Three-dimensional modeling (3D polar response, transient response, proximity effect)
- Re-mic recorded tracks (select mic type, polar pattern, and all other DSP settings even after tracking)
- Adjustable proximity effect (leave the mic in place while adjusting bass response due to proximity effect)
- Simultaneous mic models (lets you mix multiple virtual mic models from the same physical mic before or after tracking)
- Stereo recordings with one mic (even use different mic models on left and right channels)
- Off-axis correction (create more accurate polar patterns that can be used to reduce bleed, room colouration and feedback)
- Axis shift (virtually rotate the axis of the mic)
- Wide range of plug-in formats (AAX Native, VST2, VST3, UAD (Mac and Windows), Audio Units (Mac only)
- Flat frequency response (possible to create a virtual mic with an extremely flat response)
- Polar meter (the plug-in features a unique, visually informative polar pattern meter that displays the direction and level of sound arriving at the mic
- Low noise (self-noise level of 9dB-A SPL
- Uses standard 48 V phantom power
