Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition Review

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is the latest flagship audio interface from Universal Audio. Building on the success of the popular Apollo Twin line, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition takes things to the next level with improved audio conversion, four Unison mic preamps, and more processing power than ever before.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the features, specs, performance, and usability of the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your home studio or take your mixing and recording skills to new heights, keep reading to see if the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is the right audio interface for you.

Overview and Features

The Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is a 4-in/10-out Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed for professional studio recording, mixing, and production. Here are some of the key features that make this interface stand out:

• Four Unison mic preamps – UA’s signature preamp technology provides ultra-transparent gain staging for exceptional audio quality. The preamps offer 65dB of clean gain for condenser mics and up to 75dB for dynamic mics.
• Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion – with 127dB dynamic range, the Apollo Twin X offers audio conversion that rivals dedicated high-end AD/DA converters. This translates to pristine audio quality whether you’re tracking or mixing.
• HEXA Core UAD-2 processing – six SHARC DSP chips provide plenty of real-time UAD plugin processing power, letting you track and monitor with UAD plug-ins without latency. Up to 14 UAD and UA plugins can run simultaneously.
• 10 x 20 monitoring – the built-in monitor controller allows you to create up to four unique monitor mixes. This makes tracking sessions with artists on headphones easier than ever. You also get dedicated alt speaker outputs.
• Console 2.0 software – the redesigned Console 2.0 software provides quick access to all monitoring, routing, and processing features. It’s engineered to provide an efficient, uncluttered workflow.
• Thunderbolt 3 connectivity – with blazing fast Thunderbolt 3, you get ultra low-latency performance perfect for tracking and monitoring. Transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps support high channel counts at high sample rates.
• Compatible with Apollo X rack units – you can expand the I/O and processing of the Apollo Twin X by connecting up to 4 Apollo X rack units via Thunderbolt in a multi-unit cascading workflow.

With these features and specs, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is arguably the most powerful desktop audio interface Universal Audio has ever made. It’s designed to provide everything you need for professional-level home studio recording in one compact unit.

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition

• A special edition of UA's acclaimed Apollo Twin X interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value
• Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion derived from Apollo X rackmount interfaces paired with 2 Unison mic preamps deliver stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
• 2 Unison mic preamps offer stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
• UAD QUAD Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
• Produce with LUNA Recording System — a fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only)

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Hardware Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition features a compact, all-metal construction that feels sturdy and road-ready. The front panel offers quick access to mic/line inputs, headphone outputs, and monitor mix controls.

The top panel is where you’ll find the touch-sensitive HEXA Core indicator as well as a large watchglass knob for gain control and pressing to engage +48v phantom power. Despite the dense feature set, the layout feels intuitive and clean.

Around back is where you’ll plug in your monitor speakers, headphones, Thunderbolt 3 cables, external pres, talkback mic, and more. Overall, the build quality lives up to UA’s reputation for making robust, reliable interfaces. Even if you take it on the road regularly, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is designed to hold up.

Audio Quality and Conversion

So how does the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition actually sound? In a word – fantastic. Universal Audio has always been known for making interfaces and preamps that sound “musical” while retaining accuracy and transparency. That tradition continues here with immaculate audio conversion and preamp tones.

Starting with the A/D and D/A conversion, the specs here outperform nearly any other desktop interface on the market. You get 127dB of dynamic range and a conversion bit depth of 24-bit/192kHz. What does this mean? You can push signal levels without introducing noise or harshness. The accuracy is good enough for the most discerning ears in professional recording and mixing scenarios.

Four Class A Unison mic preamps provide that sought-after warmth and sheen on vocals and acoustic instruments without sacrificing detail. The ultra-transparent gain staging lets you drive signals hard without the risk of harshness or distortion. Having four Unison pres in a desktop unit like this is a huge benefit for recording drums, guitars, and vocal ensembles.

Overall, you’d be hard-pressed to find an interface in this class that rivals the Apollo Twin X QUAD for pure audio fidelity. If pristine conversion and microphone preamps are your top priority, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition delivers stellar results.

Latency Performance

One of the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition’s biggest assets is its extremely low-latency performance. Thanks to its Thunderbolt 3 connectivity and UAD-2 HEXA Core processing, you can run up to 14 UAD and UA plugins in real time with negligible latency.

This benefit can’t be overstated for recording and mixing workflows. Being able to track and monitor with UAD plugins like compressors, EQs, and channel strips without latency allows you to make better artistic decisions faster. You won’t need to guess how a comp, delay, or reverb sounds – you’ll hear it with your performance.

For mixing, the ability to run analog modeled plugins like Studer tape machines and Fairchild compressors in real time opens up creative options. You can print effects and commit to creative choices confidently. The workflow speed and flexibility provided by the Apollo’s low-latency performance is a tremendous asset in the studio.

Ease of Use and Workflow

Despite its powerful feature set, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is designed to integrate smoothly into any studio workflow. The front panel controls offer quick access to monitor and headphone mixes, so you can easily set up musicians during tracking sessions.

The redesigned Console 2.0 software provides quick access to low-latency monitoring, Unison plug-ins, and flexible routing options. It’s optimized to help you record, mix, and monitor with speed and efficiency. Streaming tools like the VU meter bridge, tape machine control, and keyboard/synth allow you to control outboard gear right from Console 2.0

Add in the ability to run up to four Apollo X rack units via Thunderbolt in a cascading setup, and you have room to grow. For producers low on space, being able to expand I/O and processing using external racks is invaluable. Overall, the Apollo Twin X QUAD delivers robust studio functionality without complexity getting in the way.

Value Proposition

With an MSRP of $1499, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition sits at the higher end of desktop audio interfaces. However, when you consider the quality of components, high-end conversion, and UAD plugin bundle, it represents a solid value compared to the competition.

An equivalent interface from companies like RME or Apogee would likely cost even more when you factor in the cost of converters, preamps, and I/O separately. Not to mention with over $1000 worth of UAD plugins and Softube amp modeling included, the Apollo Twin X QUAD provides immense value.

If you’re looking for boutique-level sound and tons of recording and mixing flexibility in a portable unit, few interfaces can compete with the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition at this price point. It’s built to provide professional results for years, making it a wise long term investment.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the biggest pros and cons of the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition based on our testing:

Pros

• Pristine audio conversion and crystal clear preamps
• Ultra low-latency performance
• Great build quality and durability
• Tons of I/O and connectivity
• Bundled UAD plugins provide immense value

Cons

• Expensive compared to other desktop interfaces
• Connectivity can get complex in larger setups
• Console software takes some adjusting coming from other DAWs

Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons, making the Apollo Twin X QUAD a top choice for home studios to professional recording facilities.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition represents a top-tier desktop recording solution for producers, musicians, and engineers who demand the very best. With superb components, copper chassis build quality, and UAD’s flagship UAD-2 processing, it’s in a class of its own.

If your budget allows, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition is easy to recommend. Nothing else combines boutique-quality sound, versatile mixing workflows, and abundant I/O into such a portable form factor. For home studios to commercial facilities, it’s a versatile interface that can handle any session with clarity and musicality.

FAQs

Does the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition require hardware authorization?

Yes, you must connect the interface and activate it with your UA account to enable the bundled UAD plugins and Unison technology. An iLok is not required.

Can I use the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition with Windows?

Yes, it’s fully compatible with Windows 10 via the Thunderbolt 3 port. Download the latest UAD software to get up and running.

How many inputs and outputs does the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition have?

You get 4 combo mic/line/Hi-Z instrument inputs, 8 line outputs, 2 monitor outputs, S/PDIF I/O, and two headphone outputs. So 10 total outputs and 4 hardware inputs.

Is the Apollo Twin X QUAD multitrack recording capable?

Absolutely – it can record all four hardware inputs simultaneously at up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution over Thunderbolt 3. You can track an entire band or drum kit with no compromises in audio quality.

Can I add more I/O via ADAT?

Unfortunately no – the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition does not include ADAT I/O. To add more mic pres and I/O, you’ll need to use a multi-unit setup with up to four Apollo X rackmount units.

How does the copper chassis compare to the standard aluminum model?

The copper chassis provides maximum noise isolation and rejection for the cleanest recordings. It’s ideal for stringent studio environments where noise control is critical.

What UAD plugins come included with the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition?

You get the UAD Ultimate 7 bundle (over $1000 value) which includes Neve EQs and preamp emulations, classic compressors like 1176AE and LA-2A, Ampex tape emulators, Lexicon reverbs, and more.

Conclusion

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition offers seamless integration of high-end audio conversion and Unison preamp technology in one convenient desktop unit. For any studio where professional recording and production is the goal, the Apollo Twin X QUAD deserves serious consideration. The superior sound, abundant flexibility, and UAD platform make it the new standard for desktop interfaces. Overall, the Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition easily earns our highest recommendation.

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Heritage Edition

• A special edition of UA's acclaimed Apollo Twin X interface — with a premium suite of 5 award-winning plug-in titles from Teletronix, Pultec, and UA — a $1,300 value
• Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion derived from Apollo X rackmount interfaces paired with 2 Unison mic preamps deliver stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
• 2 Unison mic preamps offer stunning models of classic tube and transformer-based mic preamps and guitar amps
• UAD QUAD Core Processing for tracking through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps, and guitar amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
• Produce with LUNA Recording System — a fully-integrated recording application made for Apollo (Mac only)

Check Price on Amazon