Universal Audio Apollo X4 Gen2 Essentials+

Record hits with the world’s most powerful desktop audio interface.
Produce larger sessions with our most powerful desktop Apollo. With audio conversion in the highest resolution, four Unison™ microphone preamps and real-time UAD processing – allowing you to record via plugins from Neve, API, Manley, Auto-Tune and hundreds of others – the Apollo x4 takes your studio to the next level with legendary UA sound, built to inspire your next collaboration.

• Produce music with top-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters and hear every detail with unprecedented dynamic range
• Use four Unison preamps for the tone and feel of iconic analog gear from Neve, API, Manley, Fender and more
• Record via UAD plug-ins in real time with onboard QUAD Core DSP
• Work faster with new UAD Console features such as Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, Monitor Controller, Immersive Audio and more

The most powerful desktop Apollo ever

They built Apollo x4 to further extend the gold standard Apollo Twin, the audio interface that single-handedly revolutionized home studio recording. With expanded I/O, elite-class 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion and the largest dynamic range to date, Apollo x4 puts the sound of the stars at your fingertips for your next collaboration.

Hear the details like never before

Apollo x4 now has its Gen 2 design and features our highest-resolution D/A converters ever. This enhanced monitoring – combined with features like Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks* – means you’ll hear the most accurate reproduction of your recordings when you mix through monitors or headphones.

*Next November 2024

Specifications

• 12 x 18 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with QUAD Core DSP plug-in processing
• Four Unison™ mic preamps, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, optical Toslink I/O (ADAT or S/PDIF)
• Two 1/4″ monitor outs, four 1/4″ line outs (ALT 1 / 2), two 1/4″ TRS headphone outs
• Elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 converters with 24-bit / 192 kHz resolution
• Enhanced D/A for critical monitoring and playback with 129 dB dynamic range
• Calibrate your main monitor and headphone outputs with Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks®*.
• Fully-featured monitor controller with alternate speaker switching and integrated talkback for easy communication with talent
• Updated UAD Console app featuring Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, subwoofer integration with Bass Management, immersive audio support, and more
• Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins via VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats in all major DAWs
• Includes up to 50+ UAD plug-ins with Essentials+ or Studio+ Editions
• Compatible with LUNA, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and more**
• Expandable with Thunderbolt Apollo interfaces or select models over Dante
• Free industry-leading technical support from knowledgeable audio engineers

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) – Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen2 Essentials+

General & Hardware

1. What are the main improvements of the Apollo x4 Gen2 over the previous generation?

The Gen2 brings hefty upgrades to your studio. Key innovations include the very best-in-class D/A converters for even greater dynamic range and lower distortion. It also features the handy Auto-Gain function for instant perfect volume settings, and the UAD Console app has been completely redesigned for a faster, more intuitive workflow.

2. How much computing power does the Apollo x4 Gen2 have on board?

The Apollo x4 is equipped with QUAD Core DSP processing (four chips). This allows you to run large amounts of legendary UAD plug-ins (such as EQs, compressors and guitar amps) in real time while recording and mixing. This is done completely latency-free and without taxing your computer’s processor.

3. What does the ‘Essentials+’ software bundle include?

The Essentials+ edition is a carefully curated software package that goes beyond standard plug-ins. It gives you instant access to a rich selection of indispensable, professional UAD plug-ins and virtual instruments (such as the legendary Teletronix compressors and Fairchild tube-limiters) to give your productions instant studio quality.

Inputs and Outputs (I/O) & Connectivity

4. How many microphones and instruments can I connect to the Apollo x4 at the same time?

The interface features 4 high-quality Unison™ microphone preamps (XLR/Jack combination) on the rear and 2 Hi-Z guitar inputs on the front. It also has two independent headphone outputs, which is ideal for recording sessions with multiple musicians simultaneously.

5. Can I expand the number of inputs and outputs of the Apollo x4 in the future?

Yes, absolutely. Thanks to the optical ADAT/SPDIF inputs and outputs, you can digitally expand the interface with, for example, an external 8-channel microphone preamp. This allows you to expand the studio to as many as 12 input channels that you can record simultaneously.

6. With which computers and DAW software is the interface compatible?

The Apollo x4 Gen2 works seamlessly on both macOS and Windows via a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 port. The interface supports all major DAWs (such as Cubase, Pro Tools, Logic Pro and Ableton Live). You also get free access to LUNA, Universal Audio’s own complete recording system. (Note: A Thunderbolt cable is not included as standard).

Studio Workflow

7. What makes the Unison™ technology on the Apollo x4 so special?

Unison™ provides a unique integration between the hardware and software. When you load a Unison plug-in (such as a preamp from Neve, SSL or API), the Apollo’s physical impedance and analog circuitry changes with it. As a result, your microphone responds exactly as if it were connected to the actual, legendary hardware table. This provides an unparalleled warm, analog sound during recording.

8. Can I also use this interface to control multiple sets of studio monitors?

Yes, the Apollo x4 has built-in monitor-control features. With the additional line outputs on the back, you can easily connect a second set of monitors to compare your mixes on different systems (A/B testing), or use the interface for a surround setup.

Looking down a slightly larger model check out the apollo x6