The Universal Audio Apollo X16 Essentials+ Gen2 is a rackmount Thunderbolt audio interface designed for professional studios and demanding sound engineers. With 18 inputs and 20 outputs, it offers cutting-edge 24-bit/192 kHz digital audio conversion, ideal for high-resolution mixing and recording. Its HEXA Core DSP enables a wide range of UAD plug-ins to be used in real time, optimizing music production in the studio or home studio. The Apollo Monitor Correction feature ensures precise monitoring, even in immersive configurations up to 9.1.6, for optimal control of surround or stereo sound.
| Connection type | Thunderbolt |
|---|---|
| Number of inputs | 18 (16 analog via DB-25, 1 stereo AES, 1 Word Clock input) |
| Number of outputs | 20 (16 analog via DB-25, 2 XLR speaker outputs, 1 stereo AES output, 1 Word Clock output) |
| Converters | 2nd-generation Apollo X, 24 bits / 192 kHz |
| DSP | Integrated HEXA Core |
| Dynamic range | 133 dB |
| Harmonic distortion | -129 dB |
| Gain reserve | +24 dBu switchable |
| Monitoring | Apollo Monitor Correction with Sonarworks® (coming in 2024) |
| Supported audio formats | 24-bit / 192 kHz PCM |
| DAW compatibility | LUNA, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, etc. |
| Plug-in formats | UAD DSP, VST, AU, 64-bit AAX |
| Dimensions | 19" rackmount, 2U |
| Word Clock input/output | BNC |
| AES input/output | Stereo XLR |
| Speaker outputs | 2 x XLR |
| Number of surround channels | Support up to 9.1.6 |
Guides & advice
Comparison chart
The EFNOTE 3 Style A, Style B, and 3X share a common sound and technological foundation, but their cymbal configurations, size, and playing capabilities are not exactly suited to the same needs.
Read the guide
Tip →
Choosing a guitar amp for playing at home isn’t just about looking at the wattage.
Read the guide
Guide →
Compare Dreadnought, Auditorium, and Jumbo models from under €300 to €900.
Read the guide
Guide →
Our recommendations under €300, from €300 to €800, and from €800 to €1,200.
Read the guide
Comparison →
Strat, Telecaster, single-cut, double-cut, modern… Electric guitar shapes are not just a matter of aesthetics. They affect comfort, tone, attack, sustain, and the musical styles for which the instrument will feel most natural.
Read the guide
