If you get contacted telling you that you won something, it's a scam. Lots of people have been getting a notice from Telegram, it's a scam. I had to stop doing give-aways because of this nonsense. Sorry, but nothing I can do about it.
Apple has recruited one of Universal Audio's top executives, leading to excitable talk about the impact that this could have on Logic Pro in 2023. Dave Tremblay has been appointed Senior Manager of Apple's Audio Systems division. th-cam.com/video/9TyzrAtEK4U/w-d-xo.html
I just bought the X8 2 weeks ago as the deal was it came with a free Townsend L22. The free mic is what did it for me. I went from an Apollo twin (single core) that I had for 6 years so I'm totally happy with the upgrade. Im a noob in the studio and this channel has helped me out soooo much. thank you
@@snoopywalker1881 they purchased Townsend 18 months ago and they’re trying to get rid of those mics so their new mics are the only ones available. Also yes, you can assume that which I also did.
@@willieelliott352 it’s all about budget. What can you afford without regretting the purchase. Also what do you need? I went with x8 because I had the cash. I didn’t need that much but I also have plans in the next few years to grow my studio so it was a good choice. The x8p is also a great machine (2 more preamps).
Benny thanks so much for the reply Ihave a Digi 03 With a X mod, it sounds great, I was just thinking of when I do switch over because it's A Firewire Interface and I want to up grade to a Thunderbolt, I Have the Octo, was just thinking of get the x6 or x8, especially when you said the Mic deal,have a great day, thanks again
The Apollo is giving me Adobe vibes at this point. I am locked into a deal that seems very hard to get out of, without saying goodbye to a whole lot of money, energy and time I've spent. After the large amount of money I've invested in an x4, and all the plugins I've amassed, I would love to start over with a non-DSP based solution. But I feel like it's too late already to get a reasonable percentage of that money back. When I'm honest with myself, the I/O on the Apollo is not great, and I only have an emotional attachment to a maximum of 3 or 4 UA plugins. But, honestly, I'm a little tired of this constant change, and this setup is what I'll use for the foreseeable future. In every aspect of tech (cameras, computers, audio stuff), I long for the old days where an investment wasn't considered obsolete a few short years after making it.
It’s not obsolete. There’s just always new technologies and options for you. I totally agree though how UA has got us sucked into their ecosystem and invested too far to back out.
Did you get money back from your work with the device? Once you get a certain return on investment you can just move on and sell it. I know engineers on frozen systems from 2012 that put out incredible albums.
I have only been watching your videos for a few days now, but I appreciate your candid and educated responses to this field Barry. I also appreciate how you are passionate about helping out those in at all levels with the questions and challenges they face in the Pro Audio world. I am hobbyist myself in London who works a career in the IT Security. And lately I have been asking myself the same questions, why do I buy this and that etc. Finding your channel has been a breath of fresh air, now I know I need to focus on 'needed' tools and also just building experience in using what I have and learning purposes for different tools too (compressors, eq, reverb, advanced mixing processes etc.) So thanks for the humility and the heart to share all this with people
Thanks for the video Barry. In case anyone is on the fence, I was an Apollo x8p user for the last 4 years. Loved the machine. But...with the new Mac computers out there, I realized what Barry has been saying for several months now (see his previous videos on how many tracks it takes to crash one of the new M1 chips) that DSP is beginning to show its age. So, I put it up for sale at Christmas time, sold it, and grabbed the RME Baby Face Pro. Most of that decision was based on the need to have a more portable unit (I work at multiple studios and to take the whole rack unit around was a pain). I'm blown away by the RME. I've never really considered myself an audiophile. Most of the TH-cam videos that go back and forth between how great a plugin sounds, don't really sound that different to my ears. But with this unit, I can tell a major difference in the clarity of the audio. Feels like night and day. The RME is perfect for portability too. I actually have a lot of projects I've tracked and mixed in LUNA (which I really love) so wanted to stay in the UAD world too. Got a Twin Quad first to try and meet the portability need, but it felt so bulky compared to the RME and the sound quality was just not the same. Just like some of the other users here, I saw the deal with the free Townsend mic, so actually got a heavily discounted Apollo x6 with a free Townsend also so that I keep some of my LUNA functionality. At the end of the day, I'm having to move away from LUNA for new projects, but having an M1 macbook pro paired with the RME, I have had 0 issues. Even with my x8p, I'd "run out of resources" with a heavy mix. So far, I've not had any issues with the new setup. Thanks for the videos to encourage me to take the jump Barry.
Andrew, I'm now in your use case camp. after seeing Barry's vid on DSP. I just looked up the Baby face and it's similarly priced to an Apollo Twin X DUO. (I have a Mac Studio M1 Max). The only downside I see to not buy a pre or post NAMM Apollo, is I can't use the Console software to track in my LX mic signals. What's the fix for that - anyone? Thanks so much. Lost in gear acquisition land, and I can even make a track yet, lol (trying to future proof).
@@Subjective_JoshNelson I am able to record my Sphere through my Baby Face. I use the native plugin from Townsend (the original maker of the mic) and it will work in any DAW. So, I put it on the channel strip as a regular plugin and it works great. Honestly I feel like it sounds better this way. I can hear a more pronounced difference in the mic models. The mic doesn't HAVE to run through Console. Of course any of the Putnam or OceanWay collections are UAD only and they will not work this way. Good thing is, the Townsend was free (or at least was when I got it). RME uses a console like program called TotalMix. I was scared of it because I had read how complicated it was. For me, it was easy to set up (at least to get an initial recording done). The hard stuff comes when you start exploring the vast capabilities the program offers you. The functionality of it is unbelievable. I can't wait to dive into that more (probably after Barry does the tutorial video he promised us on it 😀). Honestly, the only think I've missed is LUNA. I really loved tracking and mixing in that. My first two studios were analogue, and I just feel more comfortable with that "process". LUNA gave me that feel, and I got a ton of complements on my mixes in that versus any of the other DAWs I've tried. Hopefully they will come out with a non apollo required version (yeah right 😀)
I just found out about that a Super Thanks even existed, so I'm sorry its take long to respond, I had no idea you had done this. Thank you so much, I truly appreciate the support!
Cool thing about this is that if a person does not have a lot of money, the aging technology is getting better. May be a good idea to compare new price points and features of hardware with used. You might find that used Apollo gear could be better than new low-end gear, particularly if you have a less powerful computer and no funds to update.
Using an Apollo twin with a Mac Studio M1 Max. I wonder if I can replace all my DSP chains with the M1. A new ARM apollo I'd buy in a heartbeat. Still waiting to upgarde my whole setup
I can't imagine UA, or anybody, coming out with an interface that will cause me to abandon my Apollos. They give me everything I could possibly hope for -- including easy I/O for mixing with outboard gear!
I think the biggest advice I can give anybody, if the gear you’re using does what you needed it to do, and you should not consider upgrading to anything else until it can no longer do what you needed to do.
Seems like the tascam model 12 seems like it covers way more. I know it's not an audio interface alone but it seems like that and much more. Am I wrong?
True, Adeles, Last single "Hello" was recorded in the box using the Apollo twin 2and generation. It was mixed in the box, mastered outside.The original DIGI 002 costed 1200.00. The d/a coverters were not near as good a U/A or even focusrite mid level pres. The Killers 1st album that got them on the radio was recorded on a digi 001, even worse D to A Converters, poor sounding mic pres. Great art will supersede any equipment.
@@BarryJohns Why are you always so bitter about UA? Its absurd. They make amazing products. Period. You have definitely fallen far in my estimation with 1. these ridiculously biased misinformation videos that you publish about UA and 2. your need to pretend like you are the Nostrodamus of audio, which nobody wants or needs. Hang it up, its just sad.
@@alexanderstuartpetty485 Didn't watch this video or any of the others, you are judging by a thumbnail. This video is actually supportive of UA. Go figure......
have new M3 Max MacBook Pro, loaded. If the advice now is instead of the aging Apollo's - to let the horsepower of the computer do the real work of DSP thats fine, but what non DSP interface do you recommend? Any comments much appreciated...
My setup currently is an Audient id14 with an audio technica. for my 3-4 years of production i always thought these were enough although I have Peers that tell me i should upgrade to an Apollo and get a new mic. I know this isn't the topic of the video but what would you guys say would be best to do. get an Apollo or try out a shure microphone?
As much as I loved my plug-in set brought by my UAD-2 Quad PCIe, I honestly feel burned at the same time since UA refused to support it properly on systems with Ryzen processors. So upon upgrading my system, immediately half of my kit suddenly became unusable! It was at that point I realized that I couldn't rely on UA (or any one proprietary platform) anymore since none of their stuff was native (thank God for Plug-in Alliance). Honestly I should have diversified sooner. The practice in redoing my kit gives my plugin choice more focus. I'm actually in the process of removing bloat plug-ins and sorting everything that makes things useful and meaningful to me. That said, still, it's still a nice knife in the stomach whenever I think I no longer have access to $1400 worth of plug-ins. I hope that UA in the future does add native access to their legacy packages/plug-ins, but until that happens, I'm staying away. ... Also HEY from a guy also rocking with RME!
This is a huge stretch, but a control surface version of the Apollo with full control of console and LUNA, 16 unison enabled preamps, great A/D D/A converters, automation (motorized faders) and parameters, and also a ton of SHARC processors for even more DSP along with the ability to use UAD plugins without LUNA or DSP would definitely be game changing. Still I'm happy with my Apollo X8P and Octo-Satilite and probably wouldn't sell it even if I did jump on any new Apollo, especially if they continue to work together in the same ecosystem as they do now.
which audio interface can you recommend me? the Focusrite Clarett+ 8pre or the Apollo X8 I'm mainly concerned with low latency and low noise with good sound.
I just bought the clarett 8 pre I’m packing it back up today. For mic input I had to turn the gain up almost 90% times get usable signal I thought something was wrong after hours of searching I found multiple people saying this.
I've been using a Tascam US1800 on a Windows 8 ten year old computer for the last decade. Surprisingly it still works great with very little latency, but I have been looking into a complete upgrade (New computer, new interface) for a while mainly because the tech has improved so much from when I started out and I would like something with a superior AD/DA converter and modern DSP plugin system. I've been hesitant because getting into something new with the ability to record 16 or more tracks at once would cost thousands of dollars. If and when I do get a new setup I want it to allow me to use my collection of outboard preamps and something that will last me for years. I've been looking at the Apollo x8, the older Apollo quad 8, Steinberg AXR4T or a Motu interface. What would you recommend?
Not exactly sure what more we we can expect from the current crop of DAWS and interfaces...if there's something you can't do in this day and age it's most likely user error. At this point people should focus on upgrading their singing, rapping, songwriting, instrumentation or production skills...which all seem to take a dive whenever the next "essential" DAW feature or plugin fixes your mistakes with one click and eliminates the need/opportunity to learn how, and more importantly, why and when to do something.
just switched to a X4 and V8 Apollo setup. Mainly got it for tracking and overall workflow. Both were purchased used and the transfer was simple and fast. this setup should last me a very long time.
I'm already with apollo for years. Got the x8 and x16 for my desktop in the studio and they've been amazing. Thinking of buying an x4 now, more for "on the road" purposes. I travel a lot and it would give me the possibility to use my usual apollo setup in a more portable way with my laptop. But this video kind of gave me some doubts if that's the right way to go, or if it would be better to wait for their new machines. What do you think?
i cant solve the pops and distortion form the UAD amps... they take all CPU. And its not a computer problem cause its the only plugin that does it. i have 32 gb of RAM . and an i7
Barry this is a good video and makes sense but you said you "stake your reputation" on a new Apollo for NAMM which has been and gone ... and UA are silent. How about a follow up?
it'll probably take more than this to shatter @@BarryJohns! To maybe add to your argument the Apollo x4 is the lowest price it has ever been while the rest of the Apollo's aren't which may suggest that is the targeted replacement they are running out. My interest in Apollo is definitely driven by Unison preamps and not DSP capability. I don't have external preamps and I'm replacing a 10 year old Focusrite Saffire Liquid 56 for my project studio. The 56 has a basic version of Unison with Liquid selectable preamps. That's why the Apollo was of more interest than an alternative audio interface like an Audient where I get a great - but non-variable - preamp. As per one of your videos I need great preamps for vocals and acoustic guitar and I like that Unison provides Neumann and API preamps amongst others. Now I'm unsure as to how to replace my aged Focusrite audio interface ....
I've had my Apollo for almost 8 years now and was thinking of getting a new Apollo to add I/O to my system. Now that they will probably release new versions, I am waiting to see what the new ones are and whether they can be linked to my current Apollo. I would be disappointed if UA didn't update their hardware periodically.
Barry I got my first uad product 3yr or so ago i got a apollo twin and have added on plugins also i think i can run max around 10-15 depending on witch ones Im running. The spark plugins are great but if u have no internet your shit out of luck (no cool). Im on the fence where Im headed in the future. I built a offline setup and Now all these companies are making it where u need internet to run there products.
@@ScantlessBeatz It’s very trendy to bash the iLok dongle, I personally have zero problems with it. I have a desktop so I’m not moving around with the dongle so no worries that I might lose the dongle. It’s plugged in and stays that way. It’s super convenient when upgrading from one macOS to another or moving to a fresh installation. You don’t have to manually authorize all your plugins, as long as the dongle is plugged in you’re good to go. Sometimes I wish ALL my third party plugins were authorized to my iLok dongle.
@@drvoodoo3073 Ya I never had a problem with a phyiscal ilok I just did not want to pay for one when I had a digital ilock but did not realize some plugins need internet to verify. I own other plugins on my ilock and i dont need internet for them the Uad spark plugins surprised me when my internet was accidentally unplugged one day and they didn't work. I have a laptop protable set up cus I dj & do remote recording session like people will pay me to go to their house and record them. A laptop,mic,apollo is basically all I need to remotely record and Im not using a $200 mic I have a Neumann mic.
Know I have more studio gear then that Im just saying a mic laptop and apollo interface is the best option for me cus myself and my clients can hear the processing in real time from autotune,reverb or anything put on the vocal chain. Thats why I got a apollo in the first place cause it gives me basically no latency and I can print in real time what ever is on my vocal chain. Now I do need to get a apollo 8x in the future maybe.
Barry, what is your take on the just announced Native bundled plug-in sale promo? Should one jump on it now, due to the heavy discounting going on. Or, will one regret buying, say the Diamond bundle at $699 because post NAMM they will have updated them. (Just looking for your speculative opinion; nothing I would hold you too : ) ) Also, I'm not clear if I buy the Native bundle do I get the DSP versions, too. - at no extra charge?
RME really is the GOAT. They were among the first to have updated driver for the RME 800 with the M1max. That interface is like 16+ years old, and it’s still GREAT.
Mr barry which interface do you recommend of a professional interface im new starting and i dont want to buy another one and another one. I just want one can grow with me sir. If you have choice please let me no sir. Im new to you and building a home studio sir. Have a great day sir
UAD is running a massive sale right now on all hardware products.. until March 31st.. which might also be a sign of things to come. I’m thinking that the old interfaces might still be compatible with whatever they’re planning.. if they allow connectivity to the older interfaces from the next generation.. people would be fine. Also they could just make an option of using DSP or RAM. Because i got like 64G of RAM on my Mac UAD setup.. if apollo could properly access that additional memory i’m game.
The alternative to DSP is more like CPU than RAM. Having a lot of memory isn’t gonna make your computer process the plugins any faster. The CPU processes the audio. We have no clue what UA’s gonna do though. I think whatchu meant to say was that they should give you the option to run their plugins either DSP or native. They just started rolling out the native versions of their plugins. But a setting or switch to change between native and DSP would make more sense imo.
I have a video on my channel regarding how I process my voice for the channel as well as talk about the mic I use. How I Process My Voice for Videos th-cam.com/video/1v7Ealv9Jzs/w-d-xo.html
I am an RME user and it was the best decision I have made studio wise. I like UAD for outboard analog gear, but their desktop approach is antiquated and a walled garden hence I never got into their ecosystem. With other plugin companies out in the game, if that is your flavor, it is no reason to invest that kind of money for virtually the same outcome. Since I use a hybrid setup plugins do not matter that much to me.
I use Metric Halo 2882 and LIO 8. I have had the 2882 for 20 years. The company has had some upgrades and both units sound amazing / amazing features / amazing quality / great support. I would love you to do a review on Metric Halo. Very underrated.
Hi Barry, love your videos. I bought a UA X8P a little over a year ago despite your advice and it works quite wel,l although it was overpriced. The deciding factor for me was that it allows you to track with plugins….Im not tracking with compression or EQ but being able to take advantage of mic pre modules when tracking is a real plus. Having 8 channels of Telefunken V76 or similar is unheard of for me. Am I missing something? Is there a way to do that with RME for example? And, do you know if UAD Console is compatible with Reaper? Thanks for all you do!
RME still have a different focus, decent card, not better than UAD but not worse. For tracking, preamps and UAD plugins in that price range is inevitable, except you have eg. 8x 1073/1084/88RLB/etc outboard pre connected to eg. a Merging card.
I just wanna write and record music. I’m a one man band aka keyboard player. I just bought a Mac Studio and love Logic Pro X. I have used a mbox m2 mini for over a decade and other than the hissing it gives you if you turn your gain up any, it does everything I need which is…MIDI, usb to computer, mic inputs,…. What would you recommend me get to up grade away from the hissing while keeping everything else? Thanks for all you do!
Hi Barry I realise this question is on the bottom end of the spectrum but I’m urgently looking for an audio interface that gives me professional or at least semi professional recordings. Will the Apollo Solo do the job or do I have to get the Twin. Would appreciate any insight. Thanks.
I use studio one and reaper on my five year old pc with a cheap ssl interface and everything just runs super smooth. Never ever had any problems. All the uad native plugins run fine. I was on the fence to buy an Apollo quad or x6 as I plan to get a little bit of analog stuff in the future, but now I may be better looking into other interfaces.. the new uad interfaces you told us all were around the corner are still not available.. so what to go for? RME?
I was getting ready to fight with the title of your video lol. But I agree with all of what you say. I did just pull the trigger on a an Apollo x8p Heritage interface and can't wait to dig in to it. I got some extra plugs like the Capitol Mastering compressor, tape delay, Lexicon 224 reverb, rotary speaker and a couple of others. My last interface was the Tascam US1800, so you can just imagine a whole new world that opens up to me with this new interface. I've read great things about the Behringer ADA8200, which would give you an extra 8 mic inputs that can be routed out via ADAT light pipe to the x8p. The converters are great and the unit is $229 street price. Not a bad investment for a modest home studio. Thanks for this video. We're about the same age and have seen a ton of change in the DAW interface recording world.
I got an x8p about 2 years ago. It was a much needed upgrade at the time and did transform my recordings by tracking through their dsp powered plugins. Super curious about the new interfaces coming out, though it'll be a long time before I get something new as I bought the Apollo for the long haul. I'll upgrade my computer long before that.
hey Barry, question(s) 1, is there an alternative to the tube tech plugin? new to the system and my 14 day trail is coming up, when first got it I got the 6 for 400 deal and I didn't know about the tube tech, is there even away to exchange one of my plugins for it? purchased middle of jan... and from what I hear the deals only come out twice a year, and im recording hip hop daily, non of that drake singing crap like nwa, ice t, dr Dre sound if that gives you an idea... thanks
I’ve gotten rid of most of my outboard gear. Recently added a 2nd X8P that came with the Sphere L22. I love the versatility of the unison Pres. Bang for the buck $3300 pull out the $1500 for the included L22 and I added 8 mic Pres for under $250 each. I understand tech always move forward but I’m super happy having 20 unison mic Pres, enough DSP to run a 1073 and Fairchild on every channel or an API and 1176 for tracking. UADX allows me spreed out my mix across the Apollos and M1 Mac mini. Using Luna. I’m very happy where I am and if UA puts something out that completely blows away my current system. That would be great for everyone as I really don’t have any technical reasons I can’t make a great album.
I was late on the x8 l22 sale :( i am very new and only learned about the l22 about 2 weeks ago. I quickly got myself an l22 because I know when theyre sold out, only the new ones are available
I have Apollo Twin Thunderbolt and I love it. The sound with my EVE SC305 monitors and Adam Sub8 is amazing, and at this point I don't need anything else. There are UAD plugins I cannot work without, and there are plugins that I basically lost money and don't use them. I don't like the subscription model but, I am very curious what UAD will come up with next.
I am digging Luna with the API and Tape extensions. The workflow is really well thought out making it more of a console than a DAW workflow. I am looking at upgrading to the Antelope Orion Studio from my Discrete 8 Synergy core. As far as Antelope goes, when I have had issues, they have been fixed quickly with their support team. I guess I am wondering if there is an appreciable difference between Unison and just a good quality AD interface. Not that I have a budget for the Apollo channel count I would need...
Hi Barry, great video, 1 question: I have a Fireface UCX and I barely record audio here, and when it happens (vocal or guitar) is only 1 channel at a time. My main recording is VSTs synths via USB midi keyboard (House/Techno) music producer here. My projects are always 24bit/48khz sample rate / 256 buffer size. Round Trip Latency on RME are one of the best in terms of those values bit/sample/buffer I get arround 13ms and if I go 128buffer size I get arround 7ms. I saw some tests that shows Apollo Round Trip Latency 13.4ms at 128 buffer size, meaning poor performance (almost half of the performance of RME). But I didnt test my self. The whole point here is that a friend of mine, wants to buy my RME cuz he needs more I/Os and he wants to exchange his apollo twin mkii Quad + old mac mini 2012 + Behringer Xenyx 2442. I would keep his Apollo with me and sell the mac and the mixer. Im afraid that maybe is not a good deal. Could you give your opinion?
i never bought an apollo but i dreamed of buying one, i have an audient id4 just to work remotely but now im building a studio with a friend and i was gonna buy the latest apollo if i had the money so thank you, ill wait and see what happens this year
I went from the big studio Neve and studio console to a 8 channel Apollo and couldn't be happier. Scaled way down and make better music. It's an old Apollo 8p but the best piece of musical gear I've ever purchased for the fact it helps me make better music.
Thats awesome, I know many producers that work w major to bigger indy artists that have recorded full bands to just using the twin w electronics etc. or or they have an 8 channel or even a 16 and an 8....I say to each his or her own. Pro Tools gets a lot of flack, I get much of it, however, its what I've been on for 23 years, sometimes I use logic, ableton, but I personally love pro tools and its the reason I've been able to make a living..
I think we're looking at 1) new ARM-based Apollo's, and 2) a new Ox Box (apparently rumors of a pedal version). I think there are a few clues as to why the new Apollo's will be ARM-based, namely, Apple silicon support already existing for the UADx plugins and also the UAFX pedals running on ARM-processors. That also means that the UAFX may eventually get ported to this new UAD-ARM/UADx platform. I also fully expect the ability to toggle the UADx plugins between the DSP and native On-Demand.
Yeah I've been looking into a new interface. I been a beginner bought my studio equipment and stuff this last year around May and I bought a Scarlet Focusrite 2i2 and it been working good but my mentor that taught me to make beats and produce told me in time get you a better interface..Ive been looking into the Apollo. Looks like something he has but should I wait to get the Apollo like you said because you say they will come out with something new. Give me some feed back. Thankyou
I'd hold onto your 2i2 for now. If improving your mixes is the main priority, get some good open back headphones. If you already have good headphones and monitors, invest in some decent acoustic treatment (not foam) for your room.
1st, we appreciate you sir! I couldn't agree more, UA interface's have been on sale for at least 6 months now, which means they are wanting to get rid of overstock.
Thanks man, I’m going to wait to buy anything at this point. When I grabbed the Antelope Audio Discrete 4, no more than 31 days later they came out with the synergy core processing. They would not let me exchange or upgrade at all. I even had series issues with connectivity to my computer. It left a mark with me where I vouched to never buy another Antelope Audio interface again. But either way, almost 4 years later, I’m on the look again. Uggggggg
Agree! I own the first GEN, at the time external DSP was the path to take. Now, if UAD doesn't upgrade the internal processors to be above current processor then they will be forced to move to all native.
Why? Buy a Sattellite if you need more dsp. Or find a better interface with better dsp's (if you can). I have 26 dsp's and use a lot of hungry uad plugins. Never had lack of processing power...
You are right. This stuff changing so fast. And there are so many cheaper options on the market. I just purchased the Apolo X4, in a bundle with a Sphere LX microphone. Then they added tons of plugins also. So I’m waiting to see if what you say happens- but it would be nice to see new hardware Apollos at a cheaper price.
In my opinion, I’m pretty sure they are marking down the Apollo line due to the success of the UAD Volt line. People buy the Volt because of the price and just use the Spark subscription for the essential plugins.
@@virajpande3923 what specifically isn’t good about it? I think I’ll probably make the purchase of the Diamond bundle on all the native UAD plugs and not have to worry about the subscription.
@@PaulIsbell Thing costs 250 ish and the 20/month will eventually add up to the price of something way better, the plugins are great but they're super cpu intensive, apollo lets you use the plugins on the input as well, figure its easier on the cpu
I'm very new here, but I just wanted to say I hope you have a podcast. I could really keep your video playing and work in the background without any distractions. Your voice is just amazing for podcasts!
I don't know if you are right about your predictions, but I do hope so, but I also have the feeling UA will make it so the older Apollos will be still integrated in this new ecosystem, so people will rush to get the new interface, while keeping the old ones as input and output expansions.
Why do you think UA would release a new Apollo based around being able to use plugins natively? Like we couldn't already do that with the existing Apollo now
You could only be able to do that in the last few months since Spark was released. Im suggesting we will see a new type of DSP that allows seamless switching between native and DSP. Who knows if I’m right, I’ve been half right so far, but we will have to see what happens at NAMM. They are defiantly trying to get rid of existing Apollo units as they keep continuing the sale. This hasn’t happened to this degree before.
@BarryJohns I live in Fort Wayne next to the sweetwater HQ and last week i bought an open box apollo X8 for $2,275 out the door. If they release a new one right after my 30days is up I'll be so upset lol
I bought an appollo twin x 8 couldn't use it fully with my iMac computer being dated so I bought a Mac book and it cannot recognize appollo , tried to use advice from support nothing what should I do with this user unfriendly appollo?$1000 bucks wasted.
Barry ayuda! Estoy por elegir entre un RME ufx+ en $2300 o por una apollo quad x8p EN $2200 tengo un PROPHET 6 y un TR-8S. Quiero poder sacar el provecho. mi primer placa seria y es entre esta dos. Es todo mi dinero ayuda. Cual opinas ?
I've been with UAD since 2011, in fact they we hugely responsible for me going in the box and selling most of my analog gear. I hope they upgrade the shark chips. The plugins outside UAD are also amazing and chewing up more and more cpu power. UAD DSP allows me the cpu relief and real time near zero latency tracking. I'm satisfied with how thing are currently. I have no limitations. The only way it could get better is more DSP at a better price.
I need help hooking my apollo twinx back up its saying driver not installed correctly and so I tried to download it and its saying it doesn't appear to be a download file do I need to unistall and reinstall
I believe they should launch an interface that simulates the physical equipment, that would be revolutionary in the world of audio, which would be very similar to the UAD.
Nothing wrong with UAD and their Apollo units, all interfaces have their ups and downs, i for one like using their DSP power to take a load of my computer, plus their plugins are pretty good
A few years ago I started investing in hardware, currently I have 3 full racks of equipment and I lack space for more devices that have already been bought. DSP uad lies in the garage because I didn't even want to connect to a new computer, I never buy equipment from manufacturers who abandon support. That's why I have and use RME and MYTEK adda. I heard that UA has abandoned to support Apollo with Firewire.....is it true ?
I want to buy a Apollo I'm on windows.I was just wondering why The Apollo twin USB interface..... Why they didn't upgrade the USB version and all the other versions are thunderbolt.
If you get contacted telling you that you won something, it's a scam. Lots of people have been getting a notice from Telegram, it's a scam. I had to stop doing give-aways because of this nonsense. Sorry, but nothing I can do about it.
Hi Barry! Do you think the new interfaces from UA will come with improved converters?
Np sir
There really are some piece of shit humans out there.
in my opinion, at this point Apple should buy Universal Audio, and put a M2 Max inside their Apollo line up. Now that would be a Monster.
Great idea, & change Luna Daw to a more ‘Luna Pro’….
Apple has recruited one of Universal Audio's top executives, leading to excitable talk about the impact that this could have on Logic Pro in 2023. Dave Tremblay has been appointed Senior Manager of Apple's Audio Systems division.
th-cam.com/video/9TyzrAtEK4U/w-d-xo.html
Yes, and prohibit the cards to be used on Windows.
As long as Apple avoids any subscription service I’m good w that lol
Holy shit that would be crazy
I couldn't remember the name of your channel so I just typed in Universal Audio sucks and you were the first search result. 🤣🤣🤣
I just bought the X8 2 weeks ago as the deal was it came with a free Townsend L22. The free mic is what did it for me. I went from an Apollo twin (single core) that I had for 6 years so I'm totally happy with the upgrade. Im a noob in the studio and this channel has helped me out soooo much. thank you
Isnt that the fact that UA is offering a Free Townsend mL22 w an X8 more proof a big product announcement is coming?
Whats up Benny man I thinking of get an x6 or x8 I would love to know where you got tyour deal, that Mic is over a grand itself, would appreciate it
@@snoopywalker1881 they purchased Townsend 18 months ago and they’re trying to get rid of those mics so their new mics are the only ones available. Also yes, you can assume that which I also did.
@@willieelliott352 it’s all about budget. What can you afford without regretting the purchase. Also what do you need? I went with x8 because I had the cash. I didn’t need that much but I also have plans in the next few years to grow my studio so it was a good choice. The x8p is also a great machine (2 more preamps).
Benny thanks so much for the reply Ihave a Digi 03 With a X mod, it sounds great, I was just thinking of when I do switch over because it's A Firewire Interface and I want to up grade to a Thunderbolt, I Have the Octo, was just thinking of get the x6 or x8, especially when you said the Mic deal,have a great day, thanks again
The Apollo is giving me Adobe vibes at this point. I am locked into a deal that seems very hard to get out of, without saying goodbye to a whole lot of money, energy and time I've spent. After the large amount of money I've invested in an x4, and all the plugins I've amassed, I would love to start over with a non-DSP based solution. But I feel like it's too late already to get a reasonable percentage of that money back. When I'm honest with myself, the I/O on the Apollo is not great, and I only have an emotional attachment to a maximum of 3 or 4 UA plugins. But, honestly, I'm a little tired of this constant change, and this setup is what I'll use for the foreseeable future. In every aspect of tech (cameras, computers, audio stuff), I long for the old days where an investment wasn't considered obsolete a few short years after making it.
It’s not obsolete. There’s just always new technologies and options for you. I totally agree though how UA has got us sucked into their ecosystem and invested too far to back out.
Mac Vibes, I would say....
Did you get money back from your work with the device? Once you get a certain return on investment you can just move on and sell it. I know engineers on frozen systems from 2012 that put out incredible albums.
Aren’t the majority of UAD2 plugins also native? You can still use your plugins without the interface now
@@Morpholigical Probably only 30% of them are uad2
I have only been watching your videos for a few days now, but I appreciate your candid and educated responses to this field Barry. I also appreciate how you are passionate about helping out those in at all levels with the questions and challenges they face in the Pro Audio world. I am hobbyist myself in London who works a career in the IT Security. And lately I have been asking myself the same questions, why do I buy this and that etc. Finding your channel has been a breath of fresh air, now I know I need to focus on 'needed' tools and also just building experience in using what I have and learning purposes for different tools too (compressors, eq, reverb, advanced mixing processes etc.) So thanks for the humility and the heart to share all this with people
Thanks for the video Barry. In case anyone is on the fence, I was an Apollo x8p user for the last 4 years. Loved the machine. But...with the new Mac computers out there, I realized what Barry has been saying for several months now (see his previous videos on how many tracks it takes to crash one of the new M1 chips) that DSP is beginning to show its age. So, I put it up for sale at Christmas time, sold it, and grabbed the RME Baby Face Pro. Most of that decision was based on the need to have a more portable unit (I work at multiple studios and to take the whole rack unit around was a pain). I'm blown away by the RME. I've never really considered myself an audiophile. Most of the TH-cam videos that go back and forth between how great a plugin sounds, don't really sound that different to my ears. But with this unit, I can tell a major difference in the clarity of the audio. Feels like night and day. The RME is perfect for portability too. I actually have a lot of projects I've tracked and mixed in LUNA (which I really love) so wanted to stay in the UAD world too. Got a Twin Quad first to try and meet the portability need, but it felt so bulky compared to the RME and the sound quality was just not the same. Just like some of the other users here, I saw the deal with the free Townsend mic, so actually got a heavily discounted Apollo x6 with a free Townsend also so that I keep some of my LUNA functionality. At the end of the day, I'm having to move away from LUNA for new projects, but having an M1 macbook pro paired with the RME, I have had 0 issues. Even with my x8p, I'd "run out of resources" with a heavy mix. So far, I've not had any issues with the new setup. Thanks for the videos to encourage me to take the jump Barry.
Andrew, I'm now in your use case camp. after seeing Barry's vid on DSP. I just looked up the Baby face and it's similarly priced to an Apollo Twin X DUO. (I have a Mac Studio M1 Max). The only downside I see to not buy a pre or post NAMM Apollo, is I can't use the Console software to track in my LX mic signals. What's the fix for that - anyone? Thanks so much.
Lost in gear acquisition land, and I can even make a track yet, lol (trying to future proof).
@@Subjective_JoshNelson I am able to record my Sphere through my Baby Face. I use the native plugin from Townsend (the original maker of the mic) and it will work in any DAW. So, I put it on the channel strip as a regular plugin and it works great. Honestly I feel like it sounds better this way. I can hear a more pronounced difference in the mic models. The mic doesn't HAVE to run through Console. Of course any of the Putnam or OceanWay collections are UAD only and they will not work this way. Good thing is, the Townsend was free (or at least was when I got it).
RME uses a console like program called TotalMix. I was scared of it because I had read how complicated it was. For me, it was easy to set up (at least to get an initial recording done). The hard stuff comes when you start exploring the vast capabilities the program offers you. The functionality of it is unbelievable. I can't wait to dive into that more (probably after Barry does the tutorial video he promised us on it 😀).
Honestly, the only think I've missed is LUNA. I really loved tracking and mixing in that. My first two studios were analogue, and I just feel more comfortable with that "process". LUNA gave me that feel, and I got a ton of complements on my mixes in that versus any of the other DAWs I've tried. Hopefully they will come out with a non apollo required version (yeah right 😀)
Thanks!
I just found out about that a Super Thanks even existed, so I'm sorry its take long to respond, I had no idea you had done this. Thank you so much, I truly appreciate the support!
How's that new Universal Audio Interface?
It's been 19 month since this video, and UA haven't released anything.
So, should I buy an Apollo today?
haha i guess his reputation sucks
They released next gen APOLLO Series in Oct 2024
@@Hardik_Pdefinitely did I'm just starting out which one would you recommend
@@Hardik_Pwhat gen is that?
Cool thing about this is that if a person does not have a lot of money, the aging technology is getting better. May be a good idea to compare new price points and features of hardware with used. You might find that used Apollo gear could be better than new low-end gear, particularly if you have a less powerful computer and no funds to update.
@BarryJohns Well. Here we go. What do you think of V2 hardware?
Using an Apollo twin with a Mac Studio M1 Max. I wonder if I can replace all my DSP chains with the M1. A new ARM apollo I'd buy in a heartbeat.
Still waiting to upgarde my whole setup
I can't imagine UA, or anybody, coming out with an interface that will cause me to abandon my Apollos. They give me everything I could possibly hope for -- including easy I/O for mixing with outboard gear!
I think the biggest advice I can give anybody, if the gear you’re using does what you needed it to do, and you should not consider upgrading to anything else until it can no longer do what you needed to do.
Seems like the tascam model 12 seems like it covers way more. I know it's not an audio interface alone but it seems like that and much more. Am I wrong?
True, Adeles, Last single "Hello" was recorded in the box using the Apollo twin 2and generation. It was mixed in the box, mastered outside.The original DIGI 002 costed 1200.00. The d/a coverters were not near as good a U/A or even focusrite mid level pres. The Killers 1st album that got them on the radio was recorded on a digi 001, even worse D to A Converters, poor sounding mic pres. Great art will supersede any equipment.
@@BarryJohns Why are you always so bitter about UA? Its absurd. They make amazing products. Period. You have definitely fallen far in my estimation with 1. these ridiculously biased misinformation videos that you publish about UA and 2. your need to pretend like you are the Nostrodamus of audio, which nobody wants or needs. Hang it up, its just sad.
@@alexanderstuartpetty485 Didn't watch this video or any of the others, you are judging by a thumbnail. This video is actually supportive of UA. Go figure......
Is UAD still better than Modern Waves products? What do you think about the Waves Abbey Roads Mastering Plugin?
Yes
have new M3 Max MacBook Pro, loaded. If the advice now is instead of the aging Apollo's - to let the horsepower of the computer do the real work of DSP thats fine, but what non DSP interface do you recommend? Any comments much appreciated...
I had one and can purely back you here , I had to swap it to a SSL 2+
Works like I need it to 🙏
Is working good for me, no need to upgrade. If it ain't broke????
Speaking of AVID what is your thoughts on the new MBOX Studio interface?
What mic are you using? Sounds great
My next video will be how I process my dialog.
@@BarryJohns 🙃
My setup currently is an Audient id14 with an audio technica. for my 3-4 years of production i always thought these were enough although I have Peers that tell me i should upgrade to an Apollo and get a new mic.
I know this isn't the topic of the video but what would you guys say would be best to do. get an Apollo or try out a shure microphone?
As much as I loved my plug-in set brought by my UAD-2 Quad PCIe, I honestly feel burned at the same time since UA refused to support it properly on systems with Ryzen processors. So upon upgrading my system, immediately half of my kit suddenly became unusable!
It was at that point I realized that I couldn't rely on UA (or any one proprietary platform) anymore since none of their stuff was native (thank God for Plug-in Alliance).
Honestly I should have diversified sooner. The practice in redoing my kit gives my plugin choice more focus. I'm actually in the process of removing bloat plug-ins and sorting everything that makes things useful and meaningful to me.
That said, still, it's still a nice knife in the stomach whenever I think I no longer have access to $1400 worth of plug-ins. I hope that UA in the future does add native access to their legacy packages/plug-ins, but until that happens, I'm staying away.
...
Also HEY from a guy also rocking with RME!
UA's customer support is some of the worst I've ever experienced. It's like they train their support staff to gaslight customers. 🤣
I think diversification is completely overlooked and an underrated comment . Spot on
So anything new 6 month later ?
They just released a new usb (windows only) audio interface....would be interesting to get a review!
That's nothing new, RME is still king
UAD still has a decent ADC/DAC, best plugins, few cards (the same as before) are better and RME is not one of them
So no new products were announced, now what ? :(
What exactly do you think they will do? Some hybrid between DSP and native?
I’m beginning to think I was wrong, it’s a mystery to me. Their best bet would be to design something around ARM processors. Only time will tell.
This is a huge stretch, but a control surface version of the Apollo with full control of console and LUNA, 16 unison enabled preamps, great A/D D/A converters, automation (motorized faders) and parameters, and also a ton of SHARC processors for even more DSP along with the ability to use UAD plugins without LUNA or DSP would definitely be game changing. Still I'm happy with my Apollo X8P and Octo-Satilite and probably wouldn't sell it even if I did jump on any new Apollo, especially if they continue to work together in the same ecosystem as they do now.
that would be insane, but would most defo come at a huge price
This dude should’ve nvr made this video
Well put sir. Keep being honest. It's refreshing and welcomed by this man! CHEERS!
I reallu want to try their Oxide Tape Recorder, but 15.4% cpu power per instance is not acceptable for a native plugin.
which audio interface can you recommend me?
the Focusrite Clarett+ 8pre or the Apollo X8
I'm mainly concerned with low latency and low noise with good sound.
I just bought the clarett 8 pre I’m packing it back up today. For mic input I had to turn the gain up almost 90% times get usable signal I thought something was wrong after hours of searching I found multiple people saying this.
@@tsoghostly Which microphone did you use?
@@samadam4774 I tried it on 2 condenser mics Mojave ma 300 & the avatone bv1 . I ended up with an apogee interface happy with the sound I got now !!
@@samadam4774 mojave ma 300
I've been using a Tascam US1800 on a Windows 8 ten year old computer for the last decade. Surprisingly it still works great with very little latency, but I have been looking into a complete upgrade (New computer, new interface) for a while mainly because the tech has improved so much from when I started out and I would like something with a superior AD/DA converter and modern DSP plugin system. I've been hesitant because getting into something new with the ability to record 16 or more tracks at once would cost thousands of dollars. If and when I do get a new setup I want it to allow me to use my collection of outboard preamps and something that will last me for years. I've been looking at the Apollo x8, the older Apollo quad 8, Steinberg AXR4T or a Motu interface. What would you recommend?
Hey what do you think about the model 12?
Not exactly sure what more we we can expect from the current crop of DAWS and interfaces...if there's something you can't do in this day and age it's most likely user error. At this point people should focus on upgrading their singing, rapping, songwriting, instrumentation or production skills...which all seem to take a dive whenever the next "essential" DAW feature or plugin fixes your mistakes with one click and eliminates the need/opportunity to learn how, and more importantly, why and when to do something.
what would be the best rival of the apollo twin x? taking in mind quality and price point.
RME Babyface Pro
@@BarryJohns thanks
Do you think they are going to also make a better OXBOX ?
just switched to a X4 and V8 Apollo setup. Mainly got it for tracking and overall workflow. Both were purchased used and the transfer was simple and fast. this setup should last me a very long time.
Your set up is fine.
What interface is an upgrade after it?
I'm already with apollo for years. Got the x8 and x16 for my desktop in the studio and they've been amazing. Thinking of buying an x4 now, more for "on the road" purposes. I travel a lot and it would give me the possibility to use my usual apollo setup in a more portable way with my laptop. But this video kind of gave me some doubts if that's the right way to go, or if it would be better to wait for their new machines. What do you think?
i cant solve the pops and distortion form the UAD amps... they take all CPU. And its not a computer problem cause its the only plugin that does it. i have 32 gb of RAM . and an i7
Barry this is a good video and makes sense but you said you "stake your reputation" on a new Apollo for NAMM which has been and gone ... and UA are silent. How about a follow up?
Well it looks like my reputation is in shatters, can’t get all of them right🤦♂️
it'll probably take more than this to shatter @@BarryJohns! To maybe add to your argument the Apollo x4 is the lowest price it has ever been while the rest of the Apollo's aren't which may suggest that is the targeted replacement they are running out. My interest in Apollo is definitely driven by Unison preamps and not DSP capability. I don't have external preamps and I'm replacing a 10 year old Focusrite Saffire Liquid 56 for my project studio. The 56 has a basic version of Unison with Liquid selectable preamps. That's why the Apollo was of more interest than an alternative audio interface like an Audient where I get a great - but non-variable - preamp. As per one of your videos I need great preamps for vocals and acoustic guitar and I like that Unison provides Neumann and API preamps amongst others. Now I'm unsure as to how to replace my aged Focusrite audio interface ....
do you think Apple is going to buy UA like they buy Emagic and Camel Audio?
I've had my Apollo for almost 8 years now and was thinking of getting a new Apollo to add I/O to my system. Now that they will probably release new versions, I am waiting to see what the new ones are and whether they can be linked to my current Apollo. I would be disappointed if UA didn't update their hardware periodically.
so it's been 4 months, when do we buy the Apollo? Do we just wait?
Barry I got my first uad product 3yr or so ago i got a apollo twin and have added on plugins also i think i can run max around 10-15 depending on witch ones Im running. The spark plugins are great but if u have no internet your shit out of luck (no cool).
Im on the fence where Im headed in the future. I built a offline setup and Now all these companies are making it where u need internet to run there products.
Just buy a physical iLok key and all your problems will be fixed
@@hlgrf8876 you know I didnt even think of that cus i been using a digital ilock that is a good idea. I never owned a phyiscal ilock
@@ScantlessBeatz It’s very trendy to bash the iLok dongle, I personally have zero problems with it. I have a desktop so I’m not moving around with the dongle so no worries that I might lose the dongle. It’s plugged in and stays that way. It’s super convenient when upgrading from one macOS to another or moving to a fresh installation. You don’t have to manually authorize all your plugins, as long as the dongle is plugged in you’re good to go. Sometimes I wish ALL my third party plugins were authorized to my iLok dongle.
@@drvoodoo3073 Ya I never had a problem with a phyiscal ilok I just did not want to pay for one when I had a digital ilock but did not realize some plugins need internet to verify. I own other plugins on my ilock and i dont need internet for them the Uad spark plugins surprised me when my internet was accidentally unplugged one day and they didn't work. I have a laptop protable set up cus I dj & do remote recording session like people will pay me to go to their house and record them. A laptop,mic,apollo is basically all I need to remotely record and Im not using a $200 mic I have a Neumann mic.
Know I have more studio gear then that Im just saying a mic laptop and apollo interface is the best option for me cus myself and my clients can hear the processing in real time from autotune,reverb or anything put on the vocal chain. Thats why I got a apollo in the first place cause it gives me basically no latency and I can print in real time what ever is on my vocal chain. Now I do need to get a apollo 8x in the future maybe.
NAMM 2023 is here, and UAD isn't in the lineup... you still believe they are gonna release a new Apollo this year?
Barry, what is your take on the just announced Native bundled plug-in sale promo? Should one jump on it now, due to the heavy discounting going on. Or, will one regret buying, say the Diamond bundle at $699 because post NAMM they will have updated them. (Just looking for your speculative opinion; nothing I would hold you too : ) ) Also, I'm not clear if I buy the Native bundle do I get the DSP versions, too. - at no extra charge?
RME really is the GOAT. They were among the first to have updated driver for the RME 800 with the M1max. That interface is like 16+ years old, and it’s still GREAT.
Mr barry which interface do you recommend of a professional interface im new starting and i dont want to buy another one and another one. I just want one can grow with me sir. If you have choice please let me no sir. Im new to you and building a home studio sir. Have a great day sir
UAD is running a massive sale right now on all hardware products.. until March 31st.. which might also be a sign of things to come.
I’m thinking that the old interfaces might still be compatible with whatever they’re planning.. if they allow connectivity to the older interfaces from the next generation.. people would be fine. Also they could just make an option of using DSP or RAM. Because i got like 64G of RAM on my Mac UAD setup.. if apollo could properly access that additional memory i’m game.
Same setup as me i have a new max 2 macbook pro w 64gb of ram. Its way more than enough
The alternative to DSP is more like CPU than RAM. Having a lot of memory isn’t gonna make your computer process the plugins any faster. The CPU processes the audio. We have no clue what UA’s gonna do though. I think whatchu meant to say was that they should give you the option to run their plugins either DSP or native. They just started rolling out the native versions of their plugins. But a setting or switch to change between native and DSP would make more sense imo.
barry what a bout luna record sistem is release for uad spark ?
Hello, your audio is always really clear. What microphone and interface do you use to record your speaking portions? Do you do any processing?
I have a video on my channel regarding how I process my voice for the channel as well as talk about the mic I use.
How I Process My Voice for Videos
th-cam.com/video/1v7Ealv9Jzs/w-d-xo.html
I am an RME user and it was the best decision I have made studio wise. I like UAD for outboard analog gear, but their desktop approach is antiquated and a walled garden hence I never got into their ecosystem. With other plugin companies out in the game, if that is your flavor, it is no reason to invest that kind of money for virtually the same outcome. Since I use a hybrid setup plugins do not matter that much to me.
I use Metric Halo 2882 and LIO 8. I have had the 2882 for 20 years. The company has had some upgrades and both units sound amazing / amazing features / amazing quality / great support. I would love you to do a review on Metric Halo. Very underrated.
yes but no dante card
My Apollo twin x is recording a buzz rn would you happen to know why
I'm looking to invest in a new interface. Does anyone know any release dates?
Hi Barry, love your videos.
I bought a UA X8P a little over a year ago despite your advice and it works quite wel,l although it was overpriced. The deciding factor for me was that it allows you to track with plugins….Im not tracking with compression or EQ but being able to take advantage of mic pre modules when tracking is a real plus. Having 8 channels of Telefunken V76 or similar is unheard of for me. Am I missing something? Is there a way to do that with RME for example?
And, do you know if UAD Console is compatible with Reaper?
Thanks for all you do!
UAD works great with REAPER!
RME still have a different focus, decent card, not better than UAD but not worse. For tracking, preamps and UAD plugins in that price range is inevitable, except you have eg. 8x 1073/1084/88RLB/etc outboard pre connected to eg. a Merging card.
I just wanna write and record music. I’m a one man band aka keyboard player. I just bought a Mac Studio and love Logic Pro X. I have used a mbox m2 mini for over a decade and other than the hissing it gives you if you turn your gain up any, it does everything I need which is…MIDI, usb to computer, mic inputs,….
What would you recommend me get to up grade away from the hissing while keeping everything else?
Thanks for all you do!
Hi Barry I realise this question is on the bottom end of the spectrum but I’m urgently looking for an audio interface that gives me professional or at least semi professional recordings. Will the Apollo Solo do the job or do I have to get the Twin. Would appreciate any insight. Thanks.
I use studio one and reaper on my five year old pc with a cheap ssl interface and everything just runs super smooth. Never ever had any problems. All the uad native plugins run fine. I was on the fence to buy an Apollo quad or x6 as I plan to get a little bit of analog stuff in the future, but now I may be better looking into other interfaces.. the new uad interfaces you told us all were around the corner are still not available.. so what to go for? RME?
I was getting ready to fight with the title of your video lol. But I agree with all of what you say. I did just pull the trigger on a an Apollo x8p Heritage interface and can't wait to dig in to it. I got some extra plugs like the Capitol Mastering compressor, tape delay, Lexicon 224 reverb, rotary speaker and a couple of others. My last interface was the Tascam US1800, so you can just imagine a whole new world that opens up to me with this new interface. I've read great things about the Behringer ADA8200, which would give you an extra 8 mic inputs that can be routed out via ADAT light pipe to the x8p. The converters are great and the unit is $229 street price. Not a bad investment for a modest home studio. Thanks for this video. We're about the same age and have seen a ton of change in the DAW interface recording world.
I got an x8p about 2 years ago. It was a much needed upgrade at the time and did transform my recordings by tracking through their dsp powered plugins. Super curious about the new interfaces coming out, though it'll be a long time before I get something new as I bought the Apollo for the long haul. I'll upgrade my computer long before that.
hey Barry, question(s) 1, is there an alternative to the tube tech plugin? new to the system and my 14 day trail is coming up, when first got it I got the 6 for 400 deal and I didn't know about the tube tech, is there even away to exchange one of my plugins for it? purchased middle of jan... and from what I hear the deals only come out twice a year, and im recording hip hop daily, non of that drake singing crap like nwa, ice t, dr Dre sound if that gives you an idea... thanks
Tube Tech plugins are actually by Softube. Just get the native versions.
I’ve gotten rid of most of my outboard gear. Recently added a 2nd X8P that came with the Sphere L22. I love the versatility of the unison Pres. Bang for the buck $3300 pull out the $1500 for the included L22 and I added 8 mic Pres for under $250 each.
I understand tech always move forward but I’m super happy having 20 unison mic Pres, enough DSP to run a 1073 and Fairchild on every channel or an API and 1176 for tracking. UADX allows me spreed out my mix across the Apollos and M1 Mac mini. Using Luna.
I’m very happy where I am and if UA puts something out that completely blows away my current system. That would be great for everyone as I really don’t have any technical reasons I can’t make a great album.
I was late on the x8 l22 sale :( i am very new and only learned about the l22 about 2 weeks ago. I quickly got myself an l22 because I know when theyre sold out, only the new ones are available
@@ducngo3077 Welcome!
I have Apollo Twin Thunderbolt and I love it. The sound with my EVE SC305 monitors and Adam Sub8 is amazing, and at this point I don't need anything else. There are UAD plugins I cannot work without, and there are plugins that I basically lost money and don't use them. I don't like the subscription model but, I am very curious what UAD will come up with next.
I am digging Luna with the API and Tape extensions. The workflow is really well thought out making it more of a console than a DAW workflow. I am looking at upgrading to the Antelope Orion Studio from my Discrete 8 Synergy core. As far as Antelope goes, when I have had issues, they have been fixed quickly with their support team. I guess I am wondering if there is an appreciable difference between Unison and just a good quality AD interface. Not that I have a budget for the Apollo channel count I would need...
Think it's worth waiting until winter naam to see if there's something similar to the volt 2 from them?
Hi Barry, great video, 1 question: I have a Fireface UCX and I barely record audio here, and when it happens (vocal or guitar) is only 1 channel at a time. My main recording is VSTs synths via USB midi keyboard (House/Techno) music producer here. My projects are always 24bit/48khz sample rate / 256 buffer size. Round Trip Latency on RME are one of the best in terms of those values bit/sample/buffer I get arround 13ms and if I go 128buffer size I get arround 7ms. I saw some tests that shows Apollo Round Trip Latency 13.4ms at 128 buffer size, meaning poor performance (almost half of the performance of RME). But I didnt test my self. The whole point here is that a friend of mine, wants to buy my RME cuz he needs more I/Os and he wants to exchange his apollo twin mkii Quad + old mac mini 2012 + Behringer Xenyx 2442. I would keep his Apollo with me and sell the mac and the mixer. Im afraid that maybe is not a good deal. Could you give your opinion?
The computer and behringer are not worth anything at all. I would not make that trade.
i never bought an apollo but i dreamed of buying one, i have an audient id4 just to work remotely but now im building a studio with a friend and i was gonna buy the latest apollo if i had the money so thank you, ill wait and see what happens this year
I went from the big studio Neve and studio console to a 8 channel Apollo and couldn't be happier. Scaled way down and make better music. It's an old Apollo 8p but the best piece of musical gear I've ever purchased for the fact it helps me make better music.
Thats awesome, I know many producers that work w major to bigger indy artists that have recorded full bands to just using the twin w electronics etc. or or they have an 8 channel or even a 16 and an 8....I say to each his or her own. Pro Tools gets a lot of flack, I get much of it, however, its what I've been on for 23 years, sometimes I use logic, ableton, but I personally love pro tools and its the reason I've been able to make a living..
I think we're looking at 1) new ARM-based Apollo's, and 2) a new Ox Box (apparently rumors of a pedal version). I think there are a few clues as to why the new Apollo's will be ARM-based, namely, Apple silicon support already existing for the UADx plugins and also the UAFX pedals running on ARM-processors. That also means that the UAFX may eventually get ported to this new UAD-ARM/UADx platform. I also fully expect the ability to toggle the UADx plugins between the DSP and native On-Demand.
@Barry Johns Studio Talk - I didn’t think there would be new Apollos at NAMM and there wasn't.
Yeah I've been looking into a new interface. I been a beginner bought my studio equipment and stuff this last year around May and I bought a Scarlet Focusrite 2i2 and it been working good but my mentor that taught me to make beats and produce told me in time get you a better interface..Ive been looking into the Apollo. Looks like something he has but should I wait to get the Apollo like you said because you say they will come out with something new. Give me some feed back. Thankyou
I'd hold onto your 2i2 for now. If improving your mixes is the main priority, get some good open back headphones. If you already have good headphones and monitors, invest in some decent acoustic treatment (not foam) for your room.
1st, we appreciate you sir! I couldn't agree more, UA interface's have been on sale for at least 6 months now, which means they are wanting to get rid of overstock.
Use an Apollo with external outboard it is a bad thing?
No, exactly the opposite, thats the recommended recording workflow.
Thanks man, I’m going to wait to buy anything at this point. When I grabbed the Antelope Audio Discrete 4, no more than 31 days later they came out with the synergy core processing. They would not let me exchange or upgrade at all. I even had series issues with connectivity to my computer. It left a mark with me where I vouched to never buy another Antelope Audio interface again. But either way, almost 4 years later, I’m on the look again. Uggggggg
Agree! I own the first GEN, at the time external DSP was the path to take. Now, if UAD doesn't upgrade the internal processors to be above current processor then they will be forced to move to all native.
Why? Buy a Sattellite if you need more dsp. Or find a better interface with better dsp's (if you can). I have 26 dsp's and use a lot of hungry uad plugins. Never had lack of processing power...
You are right. This stuff changing so fast. And there are so many cheaper options on the market. I just purchased the Apolo X4, in a bundle with a Sphere LX microphone. Then they added tons of plugins also. So I’m waiting to see if what you say happens- but it would be nice to see new hardware Apollos at a cheaper price.
I need help reconnecting my apollo twin x will pay money to get it up and running again
In my opinion, I’m pretty sure they are marking down the Apollo line due to the success of the UAD Volt line.
People buy the Volt because of the price and just use the Spark subscription for the essential plugins.
yup that's exactly what I did kind of impulsively, now I'm reconsidering my decision- not a good long term setup...
@@virajpande3923 what specifically isn’t good about it? I think I’ll probably make the purchase of the Diamond bundle on all the native UAD plugs and not have to worry about the subscription.
@@PaulIsbell Thing costs 250 ish and the 20/month will eventually add up to the price of something way better, the plugins are great but they're super cpu intensive, apollo lets you use the plugins on the input as well, figure its easier on the cpu
Apple has recruited one of Universal Audio's top executives, leading to excitable talk about the impact that this could have on Logic Pro in 2023.
I need a small box DSP. What else than UA?
Wanted ur opinion if u think apogee symphony mk3 will be there in namm2023
Apogee are lagging
@@christopherpederson1021 what do u mean by lagging
I noticed like a month and a half ago, a lot of vendors are giving discounts on UA interfaces, they're giving a lot of plugins with purchase too.
There was NO major Apollo announcement at Winter NAMM by Universal Audio.
❤Hi Barry it’s taken me 50 years to get here,UAD AND APOLLO GIVE ME THE QUALITY I LOVE
I'm very new here, but I just wanted to say I hope you have a podcast. I could really keep your video playing and work in the background without any distractions. Your voice is just amazing for podcasts!
I agree with you all the way, but they just released a new twin usb 3. Did you get to check it out?
Looking forward to your thoughts on it 🙌🏻
I couldn't even if I wanted to. They're pricey as hell!
I don't know if you are right about your predictions, but I do hope so, but I also have the feeling UA will make it so the older Apollos will be still integrated in this new ecosystem, so people will rush to get the new interface, while keeping the old ones as input and output expansions.
Why do you think UA would release a new Apollo based around being able to use plugins natively? Like we couldn't already do that with the existing Apollo now
You could only be able to do that in the last few months since Spark was released. Im suggesting we will see a new type of DSP that allows seamless switching between native and DSP. Who knows if I’m right, I’ve been half right so far, but we will have to see what happens at NAMM. They are defiantly trying to get rid of existing Apollo units as they keep continuing the sale. This hasn’t happened to this degree before.
@BarryJohns I live in Fort Wayne next to the sweetwater HQ and last week i bought an open box apollo X8 for $2,275 out the door. If they release a new one right after my 30days is up I'll be so upset lol
What’s the latest on this??
ï use an apollo solo everyday and ï love it
I would just be happy with more comprehensive I/O and better conversion
I bought an appollo twin x 8 couldn't use it fully with my iMac computer being dated so I bought a Mac book and it cannot recognize appollo , tried to use advice from support nothing what should I do with this user unfriendly appollo?$1000 bucks wasted.
Barry ayuda! Estoy por elegir entre un RME ufx+ en $2300 o por una apollo quad x8p EN $2200 tengo un PROPHET 6 y un TR-8S. Quiero poder sacar el provecho. mi primer placa seria y es entre esta dos. Es todo mi dinero ayuda. Cual opinas ?
I could have bought any interface and I bought the UFX+.
Prophet Barry Johns 😅 you always have good future insight and advice that can help us from making a move too soon. Thanks for your videos 💯
How About UAD Satelite , Anyone ??
I've been with UAD since 2011, in fact they we hugely responsible for me going in the box and selling most of my analog gear. I hope they upgrade the shark chips. The plugins outside UAD are also amazing and chewing up more and more cpu power. UAD DSP allows me the cpu relief and real time near zero latency tracking. I'm satisfied with how thing are currently. I have no limitations. The only way it could get better is more DSP at a better price.
I need help hooking my apollo twinx back up its saying driver not installed correctly
and so I tried to download it and its saying it doesn't appear to be a download file do I need to unistall and reinstall
I believe they should launch an interface that simulates the physical equipment, that would be revolutionary in the world of audio, which would be very similar to the UAD.
Who’s they?
@@ChaceBonannothe other guy
So glad I went with the Babyface Pro FS! Its absolutely amazing. Zero latency
*has latency
Nothing wrong with UAD and their Apollo units, all interfaces have their ups and downs, i for one like using their DSP power to take a load of my computer, plus their plugins are pretty good
A few years ago I started investing in hardware, currently I have 3 full racks of equipment and I lack space for more devices that have already been bought. DSP uad lies in the garage because I didn't even want to connect to a new computer, I never buy equipment from manufacturers who abandon support. That's why I have and use RME and MYTEK adda. I heard that UA has abandoned to support Apollo with Firewire.....is it true ?
I want to buy a Apollo I'm on windows.I was just wondering why The Apollo twin USB interface..... Why they didn't upgrade the USB version and all the other versions are thunderbolt.