The Universal Audio Apollo x8p HE Audio Interface with Heritage Plug-Ins is a professional-grade audio interface designed for musicians, engineers, and producers who demand the best possible sound quality. At the heart of the Apollo x8p is its elite-class A/D and D/A conversion, ensuring pristine recordings that capture every sonic nuance. This meticulous attention to detail is further enhanced by HEXA Core UAD processing, providing a massive 50% increase in DSP compared to previous Apollo models. With this level of power, you can run UAD plug-ins in real-time without sacrificing audio quality, a game-changer for any recording session.

The Apollo x8p doesn't stop at pristine conversion and powerful processing. It also boasts eight Unison-enabled mic preamps that act as sonic time machines, faithfully capturing the warmth and character of legendary analog preamps from Neve, API, Manley, and Avalon. These preamps not only sound incredible, but they also eliminate the need for expensive outboard equipment, streamlining your workflow and saving valuable studio time.

Furthermore, the Apollo x8p boasts Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, providing high-speed performance and expandability for both Mac and Windows computers. This allows you to connect multiple Apollos together to create a massive I/O configuration, perfect for large recording sessions or complex post-production projects.

For a truly integrated recording experience, the Apollo x8p comes bundled with LUNA, a powerful recording application designed specifically for Apollo interfaces. LUNA seamlessly integrates with the Apollo x8p, offering features like built-in analog console modeling, Neve summing, and Studer tape emulation (Mac only). This allows you to create recordings with the depth and warmth of classic analog consoles, without the need for bulky and expensive hardware.

Even if you prefer using your own DAW, the Apollo x8p integrates effortlessly. It's compatible with all major DAWs via VST, Audio Units, and AAX formats, so you can leverage the power of UAD plugins within your existing workflow. Additionally, the Apollo x8p features selectable +24 dBu operation, ensuring seamless integration with professional audio equipment for a cohesive studio environment.

The Universal Audio Apollo x8p HE Audio Interface with Heritage Plug-Ins isn't just about technical specifications; it's also designed to optimize your workflow. The comprehensive front-panel monitoring system provides easy control over your mix, with features like Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and assignable Dim or Mono functionality. Finally, the Apollo x8p is backed by industry-leading technical support from Universal Audio, guaranteeing that you'll always have the resources you need to get the most out of your investment.

Key Features

• 16 x 22 Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with top-tier 24-bit/192 KHz conversion
  
• Realtime UAD HEXA Core Processing for tracking with UAD plug-ins at ultra-low latency
  
• 8 Unison-enabled mic preamps with real-time emulations from top brands like Neve, API, SSL, and more
  
• Surround monitor controller supporting up to 7.1 format
  
• Includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus” UAD plug-in bundle with iconic gear like UA 610-B Tube Preamp, Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A, and 1176 compressors
  
• UAD HEXA Core processing onboard for enhanced mixing power in major DAWs
  
• Ability to link up to 4 Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and 6 UAD devices; compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 with adapter
  
• Selectable +24 dBu operation for seamless integration with professional gear
  
• Front panel monitoring features include Alt Speakers, Talkback mic, and Dim or Mono options
  
• Unmatched UA analog design, premium components, and superior build quality
  
• Access to top-notch technical support from experienced audio engineers via phone and online

Technical Specifications

SYSTEM

I/O Complement
Microphone Inputs
Eight
High Impedance (Hi-Z) Instrument Inputs
Two
Analog Line Inputs
Eight
Analog Line Outputs (DC coupled)
Eight (ten including Monitor outputs)
Analog Monitor Outputs (DC coupled)
Two (one stereo pair)
Headphone Outputs
Two stereo
Digital Input Ports (TOSLINK optical)
Two (ADAT or S/PDIF, selectable)
Digital Output Ports (TOSLINK optical)
Two (ADAT or S/PDIF, selectable)
Thunderbolt 3 Ports
Two
Word Clock
One input, one output

A/D – D/A Conversion
Simultaneous A/D Conversion
Eight channels
Simultaneous D/A Conversion
14 channels
Supported Sample Rates (kHz)
44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
Bit Depth Per Sample
24
Analog Round-Trip Latency
1.1 milliseconds @ 96 kHz sample rate
Analog Round-Trip Latency through four UAD legacy plug-ins (included) via Console software
1.1 milliseconds @ 96 kHz sample rate (no additional latency via Realtime UAD Processing)

ANALOG I/O
Microphone Inputs 1 – 2
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.05 dB
Dynamic Range
122 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ 4.9 dBu)
-114 dB (0.00020%)
Maximum Input Level (PAD on)
26 dBu
Default Input Impedance
5.4K Ohms (variable via Unison plug-ins)
Gain Range
+10 dB to +65 dB
Pad Attenuation (switchable per input)
20 dB (variable via Unison plug-ins)
Phantom Power
+48V (switchable per mic input)
Connector Type
XLR Female, pin 2 positive (Combo XLR/TRS)

Hi-Z Inputs 1 – 2
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.04 dB
Dynamic Range
121 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ 11.2 dBu)
-111 dB (0.00028%)
Maximum Input Level
12.4 dBu
Default Input Impedance
1M Ohms (variable via Unison plug-ins)
Gain Range
+10 dB to +65 dB
Connector Type
¼” Female TS Unbalanced

Line Inputs 1 – 8
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.05 dB
Dynamic Range
123 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ 23 dBu)
-113 dB (0.00022%)
Maximum Input Level
24 dBu
Input Impedance
10k Ohms
Gain Range
+10 dB to +65 dB
Connector Type
(8) ¼” Female TRS Balanced (Combo XLR/TRS)
(1) Female DB25 (Tascam wiring), Normalled

Line Outputs 1 – 8
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.07 dB
Dynamic Range
127 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ -1 dBFS)
-119 dB (0.00011%)
Maximum Output Level
24 dBu
Output Impedance
100 Ohms
Connector Type
Female DB25 (Tascam wiring)

Monitor Outputs 1 – 2
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.06 dB
Dynamic Range
129 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ -1 dBFS)
-118 dB (0.00012%)
Maximum Output Level
24 dBu
Output Impedance
100 Ohms
Connector Type
¼” Female TRS Balanced

Stereo Headphone Outputs 1 – 2
Frequency Response
20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.05 dB
Dynamic Range
125 dB (A–weighted)
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Ratio (1 kHz @ -1 dBFS)
-102 dB (0.00080%)
Maximum Output Power (into 300 ohm load)
150 mW RMS
Connector Type
¼” Female TRS Stereo

DIGITAL I/O
S/PDIF
Connector Type (shared with ADAT)
Optical TOSLINK JIS F05
Format
IEC 958
Supported Sample Rates (kHz)
44.1, 48, 88.2, 96

ADAT
Connector Type
Optical TOSLINK JIS F05
Format
ADAT Digital Lightpipe with S/MUX
Supported Sample Rates (kHz)
44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
Channel Assignments @ 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz
Port 1 = Channels 1 – 8, Port 2 = 1 – 8 (mirrored)
Channel Assignments @ 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz
Port 1 = Channels 1 – 4, Port 2 = Channels 5 – 8
Channel Assignments @ 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz
Port 1 = Channels 1 – 2, Port 2 = Channels 3 – 4

Word Clock
Connector Type
BNC
Lock Range
±4% of any supported sample rate
Word Clock Input Termination
75 Ohms, switchable

Synchronization Sources
Internal, Word Clock, ADAT, S/PDIF

ELECTRICAL
Power Supply
External AC-to-DC Power Supply, Level VI compliant
AC Input Connector
Type IEC Male
AC Requirements
100V – 240V AC, 50 – 60 Hz
DC Connector Type
XLR 4-Pin Locking Male (Neutrik P/N NC4MDM3-H)
DC Requirements
12 VDC, 6A
Maximum Power Consumption
72W (30W typical)

ENVIRONMENTAL
Ambient Temperature Range
32º to 104º F (0º to 40º C)

MECHANICAL
Dimensions
Width
19 in (48,26 cm)
Height (1U rack space)
1.75 in (4,45 cm)
Depth, Chassis Only
12.125 in (30,80 cm)
Depth, Including Knob & Jack Protrusions
13.5 in (34,29 cm)
Shipping Box (Width x Depth x Height)
23.5 in x 17 in x 7.5 in
(59,69 cm x 43,18 cm x 19,05 cm)
Weight
Shipping Weight (with box & accessories)
USA: 16.6 lbs (7.52 kg)
EU & UK: 16.9 lbs (7.64 kg)
Weight (bare unit)
9 lbs (4.08 kg)

Package Contents
Apollo x8 Audio Interface Unit
External Power Supply
AC Power Cable (IEC), Region Specific
Set of (4) Rack-Mount Screws
Getting Started URL Card
UA 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
Teletronix® LA-2A Classic Leveler Collection
Pultec® Passive EQ Collection
Fairchild® Tube Limiter Collection
UA 610 Tube Preamp & EQ Collection
Teletronix LA-3A Audio Leveler
Helios® Type 69 Preamp & EQ Collection
V76 Preamplifier
UA Oxide Tape Recorder
UA Pure Plate Reverb