Universal Audio Launches Next-Level Apollo 16 Interface

Apollo 16 has launched.

The new flagship audio interface from Universal Audio – Apollo 16 – debuts at Musikmesse today, a 24-bit/192 kHz, FireWire/Thunderbolt-ready interface delivering “world-class conversion,” with 16×16 analog I/O. That’s twice the analog connectivity of the original Apollo model.

Apollo 16

With its sound quality, onboard UAD-2 QUAD processing, DB-25 connectivity and multi unit cascading for up to 32×32 analog I/O, Apollo 16 is a serious new option for professional recording facilities.

It will sell for $2,995 and will be available in the second quarter of 2013.

Article Update, June 6, 2013: Universal Audio announced today that Apollo 16, equipped with the new UAD Software 7.0, has officially begun shipping.

Here’s how Universal Audio describes the new Apollo 16:

Building upon decades of UA hardware expertise, Apollo 16 features meticulous analog circuit design, top-end converters, and DC-coupled outputs — providing the lowest THD and highest dynamic range of any converter in its class. Apollo 16’s deep, wide soundstage and exceptionally open and transparent sound makes it the ideal centerpiece for professional recording facilities.

With its standard UAD-2 QUAD processing onboard, Apollo 16 allows real time processing with UAD Powered Plug-Ins — with as low as sub-2ms latency — so recordists can monitor, audition, and “print” audio through stunning analog emulations from Ampex, Lexicon, Manley, Neve, Roland, SSL, Studer, and more. Apollo 16’s onboard UAD processing is also available during mixing and mastering, so that music producers can employ UAD plug-ins (VST, RTAS, AU) throughout the creative process.

Expandable 16 x 16 Analog Connectivity with Advanced Routing 

Apollo 16 boasts straightforward 16×16 analog I/O via convenient DB-25 connections. Two Apollo 16 units can be cascaded over MADI for an expanded system with eight UAD processors and 32×32 simultaneous analog I/O, capable of handling large professional mixes. Dedicated XLR monitor outputs and stereo AES-EBU digital I/O round out the Apollo 16’s rear-panel audio connections. 
Apollo 16’s routing capabilities include four stereo cue mixes with individually assignable outputs, and a new “Virtual I/O” feature that allows for Realtime UAD Processing of DAW tracks and virtual instruments.

Stacked Apollos

Apollo 16 also offers compatibility with Intel’s high-bandwidth Thunderbolt technology on Macs via a user-installable dual-port Thunderbolt Option Card (sold separately, $499). Thunderbolt provides greater UAD plug-in instances, improved performance at high sample rates, and reduced UAD plug-in latency in the DAW versus Apollo’s standard FireWire connection.

Click through to Universal Audio for more details!

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