Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 ESS+ (Desktop/TB3/MAC/WIN)
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Product Overview
Double the DSP Horsepower Meets Elite Gen 2 Conversion
Built for producers, engineers, and tracking artists who demand deep plugin processing stacks without system limitations, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 stands at the apex of Universal Audio's desktop lineup. The defining upgrade of the QUAD model is its internal processing core. Packing four dedicated SHARC DSP chips, this interface handles extensive multi-mic tracking sessions and heavy mixing workloads completely onboard, shielding your host computer's CPU from latency spikes and buffer bottlenecks.
Operating over high-bandwidth Thunderbolt 3 connectivity on both macOS and Windows, the Gen 2 platform wraps its massive processing power in a refined industrial design. Featuring UA's highest-fidelity monitoring DAC array to date, it acts as both a premium recording front-end and an uncompromising, mastering-grade desktop studio monitor controller.
Product Description
Four-Chip QUAD Core DSP Processing:
The core advantage of the QUAD configuration is freedom of workflow. While running vintage preamp modeling, heavy tape machine emulations, and complex plate reverbs simultaneously can max out smaller DSP units, the QUAD Core processing engine gives you the freedom to build large tracking chains on multiple inputs. You can seamlessly run full channel strips, vintage limiters, and vocal tuners across your vocals, guitars, and digital instruments at the same time, maintaining a responsive, hardware-like workflow with near-zero round-trip latency.
Elite Gen 2 Audio Conversion & Smart Calibration:
The sonic foundation of the Apollo Twin X Gen 2 is its upgraded Gen 2 Elite-Class conversion. With a revised Monitor DAC delivering a sprawling 129 dB dynamic range and ultra-low distortion (-120 dB THD+N), this desktop unit rivals multi-channel rackmount mastering converters.
To ensure absolute mix translation, Gen 2 introduces Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks®. By running the industry-standard SoundID Reference calibration filters directly on the Apollo’s internal DSP hardware, you can accurately flatten the frequency response of your studio monitors or headphones. This system correction happens with zero added latency, meaning your listening environment stays accurate regardless of your room acoustics.
Dual Unison Preamps with Assistive Auto-Gain:
The interface features two Unison-enabled microphone/line preamps and a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input. Unison technology bridges physical analog circuitry with virtual modeling software by physically changing the interface's actual input impedance, front-end gain staging, and analog circuit behavior to match vintage gear.
New to Gen 2 is the Assistive Auto-Gain function. Available inside the updated UAD Console app, Auto-Gain automatically adjusts and sets perfect recording levels across your inputs in seconds, ensuring you never clip a take or miss a sudden creative moment while tracking vocals or acoustic instruments through premium channel strips.
Advanced UAD Console App and Studio Workflow:
The redesigned UAD Console App acts as the command center for your tracking room. It introduces sophisticated studio monitor controls, including dedicated Bass Management for smooth subwoofer integration and crossover alignment, as well as Plug-In Scenes to instantly recall routing layouts. The physical desktop form factor also functions as an advanced desktop monitor controller, featuring a built-in Talkback Microphone, assignable function keys for Alternate speaker switching, Mono summing, and Dimming controls.
Essentials+ Edition Premium Plugin Suite:
Out of the box, the Essentials+ Edition gives you an instant, world-class processing catalog. It includes up to 50+ UAD plug-ins featuring the iconic Teletronix LA-2A Leveler Collection, Pultec Passive EQ Collection, 1176 Classic Limiter Collection, and specialized guitar amps from Marshall and Ampeg. It also unlocks modern performance tools like Auto-Tune, giving you everything needed to produce, mix, and deliver professional, radio-ready masters.
Key Features
QUAD CORE SHARC DSP ENGINE: Four dedicated internal processing chips deliver double the UAD plugin power of DUO models for massive mix sessions.
GEN 2 ELITE-CLASS AD/DA CONVERSION: Completely revised digital conversion path delivers an unprecedented 129 dB monitoring dynamic range.
DUAL UNISON MIC PREAMPS: Record in real time through authentic, variable-impedance emulations of Neve, API, Avalon, and Manley preamps.
ASSISTIVE AUTO-GAIN CONTROL: Automatically calculates and dials in optimal input levels in seconds to maximize clean headroom.
APOLLO MONITOR CORRECTION: Run Sonarworks® SoundID Reference room and headphone calibration curves directly on internal DSP with zero latency.
ESSENTIALS+ PLUG-IN BUNDLE: Includes a massive library of up to 50+ award-winning UAD plugins, including Teletronix, Pultec, and Auto-Tune.
HARDWARE BASS MANAGEMENT: Integrated subwoofer routing and crossover controls inside the UAD Console app for precise low-end balancing.
THUNDERBOLT 3 CONNECTIVITY: Blazing-fast PCIe audio drivers ensure ultra-low round-trip latency on modern Mac and Windows operating systems.
