Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 – Analog Classics Pro is a rackmount 16-in / 22-out Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed for bands, producers and recording engineers who need extensive microphone connectivity, real-time UAD processing and a comprehensive collection of studio software. Featuring eight Unison-enabled microphone preamps, two front-panel instrument inputs and onboard HEXA Core DSP, it supports multi-microphone sessions with compatible preamp, compressor and amplifier emulations available during recording. Gen 2 audio conversion, optical digital expansion and integrated stereo and surround monitor control provide a flexible foundation for tracking and mixing. The Analog Classics Pro bundle adds more than 80 plug-ins covering recording, mixing, mastering and sound design.

Key features

• 16-in / 22-out Thunderbolt 3 audio interface
• Gen 2 audio conversion at up to 24-bit / 192 kHz
• 8 Unison-enabled microphone preamps
• 8 balanced line inputs via DB-25 connection
• 2 front-panel Hi-Z inputs for guitars or basses
• HEXA Core DSP for real-time UAD plug-in processing
• Optical digital I/O supporting ADAT S/MUX or S/PDIF
• Dedicated stereo monitor outputs and 8 line outputs via DB-25
• 2 stereo headphone outputs with independent level controls
• Built-in talkback microphone and alternate speaker switching
• Monitor control supporting configurations up to 7.1 surround
• Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes and flexible routing through UAD Console
• Apollo Monitor Correction support powered by Sonarworks
• Analog Classics Pro bundle with more than 80 included plug-ins

Overview

Included Content

• Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 audio interface
• External power supply
• UAD Analog Classics Pro software bundle, available through registration
• UAD Console and supporting software available to download
• Preamp and channel-strip highlights: Neve 1073, API Vision, Avalon VT-737sp, Manley VOXBOX, SSL E Series and UA 610-A/B
• Dynamics highlights: Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor, Fairchild compressors, Teletronix LA-2A models, 1176 limiters and SSL G Series Bus Compressor
• Effects highlights: Pultec EQs, Studer A800, Ampex ATR-102, Lexicon 224, Galaxy Tape Echo and Pure Plate Reverb
• Additional instruments, guitar amplifiers, vocal tools and LUNA extensions included within the Pro bundle

Creative Tools

• Record up to eight microphones simultaneously through the Unison-enabled preamps, making the Apollo x8p suitable for drum kits, ensembles, group vocals and live band sessions.
• Explore the included Unison-compatible preamps and channel strips to shape input impedance, gain behaviour and tonal character during recording.
• Connect external microphone preamps, synthesizers and other line-level equipment through the DB-25 line input connection using a suitable breakout cable.
• Plug guitars or basses into the two front-panel Hi-Z inputs and create recording tones with the Pro bundle’s compatible amplifier and pedal emulations.
• Build real-time recording and monitoring chains using six onboard DSP cores. Available processing capacity depends on the selected UAD plug-ins, channel count and sample rate.
• Develop vocal and instrument chains with the included channel strips, compressors and equalisers, then add depth with room, plate and digital reverbs.
• Add tape character with Studer A800 or Ampex ATR-102, control dynamics with the Distressor and classic levelling amplifiers, or shape a mix with bus compression and mastering processors.
• Configure cue mixes in UAD Console and use the two headphone outputs to support performers during overdubs and collaborative recording.
• Expand the recording setup with compatible optical ADAT equipment, and use word clock I/O to synchronise connected digital devices.
• Connect the DB-25 line outputs to outboard processors, a patchbay or a multichannel monitoring system using appropriate cables.
• Configure stereo or surround monitoring up to 7.1, compare alternate speakers and communicate with performers through the integrated talkback microphone.
• Refine monitor or headphone playback with Apollo Monitor Correction when paired with the required Sonarworks SoundID Reference software and compatible calibration equipment.

Ideal For

• Bands and ensembles
• Drum recording
• Recording and mixing engineers
• Music producers
• Multi-microphone recording sessions
• Project and professional studios
• Producers working with LUNA
• Studios integrating patchbays and outboard equipment
• Stereo and surround production
• Anyone seeking a rackmount Apollo interface with eight Unison preamps, HEXA Core DSP and an extensive collection of studio plug-ins