Universal Audio Apollo x8 Gen 2 Essentials+: Where High-End Digital Meets Analog Magic
The Apollo x8 Gen 2 is designed to be the centerpiece of any serious recording and mixing room. This 18×24 Thunderbolt 3 interface builds on the tremendous success of its predecessor, but pushes the boundaries with enhanced audio specifications and intelligent new monitoring and workflow features.
Elite Gen 2 Conversion: The highest resolution and widest dynamic range ever in an Apollo.
4 Unison™ Preamps: Record through the exact circuit emulations of Neve, API and Manley.
HEXA Core Processing: 6 SHARC processors for real-time recording and mixing without latency.
Essentials+ Bundle: Includes a powerful set of industry-standard UAD plug-ins.
The Most Pure Conversion in its Class
With the introduction of the second-generation Apollo X, UA has taken converters to an even higher level. The x8 Gen 2 delivers amazing transparency and a dynamic range of a whopping 129 dB. This means your recordings breathe more, your reverb tails sound more natural, and you can make your mixing decisions faster and more accurately.
Unison™ Preamps and HEXA Core Power
The Apollo x8 features four Unison™ microphone preamplifiers. This technology not only mimics the sound, but also adjusts the hardware’s physical impedance and gain behavior to match the exact response of iconic analog gear. Thanks to the built-in HEXA Core DSP you can use these heavy emulations (and dozens of other plug-ins) while recording with virtually zero delay.
Essentials+ Edition: Your Digital Toolbox
With the Essentials+ Edition, you get instant access to the must-have UAD plug-ins that can be heard on almost every hit. Think about:
Teletronix LA-2A & 1176: The legendary compressors for vocals and drums.
Pultec Passive EQs: For the famous wide, musical sound corrections.
Auto-Tune Realtime Access: For that perfect, modern vocal pitch.
Oxide Tape Recorder: For that essential analog warmth and saturation.
Ready for Surround and Atmos
The Apollo x8 Gen 2 is not just a stereo interface; it is fully equipped for Immersive Audio. With support for monitor configurations up to 7.1.4, including monitor correction and bass management, this is the ideal interface for producers looking to make the move to Dolby Atmos.
Technical specifications
Conversion: Gen 2 A/D and D/A (24-bit / 192 kHz).
DSP: HEXA Core (6 SHARC processors).
I/O: 18 inputs, 24 outputs.
Inputs: 4 x XLR/Jack combo (Unison™), 8 x Line (DB25), 2 x Hi-Z, Word Clock, S/PDIF, ADAT.
Outputs: 8 x Line (DB25), 2 x Monitor Out (Jack), 2 x Headphones, Word Clock, S/PDIF, ADAT.
Connectivity: Thunderbolt 3 (compatible with Thunderbolt 4).
Dynamic Range: 129 dB.


