ReviewFinder Audio Recording Interfaces

Apogee Element 46

TLDR: The Apogee Element 46 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with world-class mic preamps, low latency, and minimal round-trip latency, making it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and other content creators who need to monitor their recordings in real-time.
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  • Lowest price: $29
  • Median price: $219
  • Highest price: $3439
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Expert consensus

The Apogee Element 46 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with world-class mic preamps, low latency, and minimal round-trip latency, making it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and other content creators who need to monitor their recordings in real-time.

The Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality audio interface that offers a range of input and output options for musicians and producers on the go. It has four world-class mic preamps that offer very low noise levels and can handle up to 75dB of gain, making it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sources that require high-quality preamps.

The interface also has low latency and minimal round-trip latency when recording or sending to external equipment, making it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and other content creators who need to monitor their recordings in real-time. The Apogee Element 46 is a reliable and versatile audio interface that is suitable for a wide range of recording needs, including professional audio production and mixing.

It is a complete solution for producers on the go, with minimal external requirements and plenty of routing options. The interface is compatible with Mac and iOS devices and can be used with any Mac-based digital audio workstation that supports Core Audio, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, and GarageBand.

Overall, the Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality device that offers premium AD/DA conversion and mic preamp technology, making it an excellent choice for professional audio recording needs.

Input/output options

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface offers a range of input and output options for high-resolution recording, with minimal latency and a rugged design.

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface offers a range of input and output options for musicians and producers on the go. It has 4 analog inputs (XLR/1/4” combo jacks) that can handle mic, line, or instrument level signals, and 6 outputs (2 XLR and 2 balanced 1/4" TRS for main monitoring, and an additional 2 balanced 1/4" TRS outputs).

The interface also has optical I/O with ADAT, SMUX, and S/PDIF support, and word clock I/O via BNC connections. This allows for recording up to 192kHz, 24-bit audio via the four analog inputs, making it a great option for high-resolution recording. The lack of knobs and pots make it rugged and roadworthy, with not much to break off in the case of a fall or drop.

The Apogee Element 46 can be used for recording and playback simultaneously with minimal latency, making it a versatile option for musicians and producers who need a reliable and high-quality audio interface.

What are the input and output options for the Apogee Element 46 audio interface?

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface has 4 analog inputs and 6 analog outputs. The front panel provides four combination inputs for mic and instruments in the middle, and a pair of stereo 1/4" headphone outputs to the right-hand side. Round the back, there are two XLR outputs for main monitoring, optical in/out, word clock in/out, power supply input, and Thunderbolt connection port.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Apogee Element 46?

The Apogee Element 46 has 4 analog inputs (XLR/1/4” combo jacks) and 6 outputs (2 XLR and 2 balanced 1/4" TRS for main monitoring, and an additional 2 balanced 1/4" TRS outputs). It also has optical I/O with ADAT, SMUX, and S/PDIF support, and word clock I/O via BNC connections.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the specifications and capabilities of the inputs and outputs on the Apogee Element 46 audio interface?

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface has 4 analog inputs and 6 analog outputs. The inputs include four Neutrik combo XLR/1/4” jack inputs that can handle mic, line, or instrument level signals. The interface also has two XLR outputs for main monitoring, optical in/out, and word clock in/out. With this interface, you can record up to 192kHz, 24-bit audio via the four analog inputs, making it a great option for musicians or producers on the go. Additionally, it has ADAT, SMUX, and S/PDIF connections available via the optical I/O, and word clock I/O via BNC connections, which keeps your digital audio setup concise, clear, and integrated.
Based on 11 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Apogee Element 46 be used for recording and playback simultaneously?

Yes, the Apogee Element 46 can be used for recording and playback simultaneously with minimal latency. According to Mixdown, the unit can handle even the highest resolution audio, up to 192kHz @ 24-bit, with little latency and minimal round-trip latency when recording or sending to external equipment. Additionally, the lack of knobs and pots make it rugged and roadworthy, with not much to break off in the case of a fall or drop.
Based on 10 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Latency

The Apogee Element 46 offers low latency and excellent performance for real-time monitoring during recording, making it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and other content creators.

The Apogee Element 46 has been reviewed by experts who have found that it has low latency and minimal round-trip latency when recording or sending to external equipment. The Thunderbolt connection keeps the latency ultra-low, making it ideal for real-time monitoring during recording.

This is important for performers who need to hear themselves in real-time without any noticeable delay, which can help with timing and overall performance. The low latency of the Apogee Element 46 makes it a great choice for musicians, podcasters, and other content creators who need to monitor their recordings in real-time.

Overall, the Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality audio interface that offers low latency and excellent performance for a variety of recording and monitoring needs.

What is the latency of the Apogee Element 46 when recording and monitoring?

According to Mixdown, the Apogee Element 46 has little latency and minimal round-trip latency when recording or sending to external equipment. The Thunderbolt connection keeps the latency ultra-low. However, the exact latency measurements are not specified.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the latency levels of the Apogee Element 46 and how do they affect the recording and monitoring process?

According to Mixdown, the Apogee Element 46 has low latency and minimal round-trip latency when recording or sending to external equipment. Thunderbolt connectivity keeps the latency ultra-low, making it ideal for real-time monitoring during recording. Low latency is important because it allows the performer to hear themselves in real-time without any noticeable delay. This can help with timing and overall performance.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Preamp quality

The Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality audio interface with four world-class mic preamps that offer very low noise levels and can handle up to 75dB of gain, making it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sources that require high-quality preamps.

The Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality audio interface with four world-class mic preamps that offer very low noise levels and can handle up to 75dB of gain. The preamps are known for their warm and clear sound quality, which is a hallmark of Apogee's audio gear.

The Element 46 provides 48v phantom power, making it suitable for powering condenser microphones. The product does not have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps such as analog modeling or digital processing. The preamps are among the best-sounding available, according to soundtech.co.uk, and Music Critic's review states that they are "the best mic preamps." The Apogee Element 46 is ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and other sources that require high-quality preamps.

It is also suitable for professional audio production and mixing.

What is the frequency response range of the preamps in the Apogee Element 46?

Unfortunately, I do not have the exact frequency response range of the preamps in the Apogee Element 46. However, according to soundtech.co.uk, the preamps are among the best-sounding available.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many preamps are included in the Apogee Element 46, and what are their gain and noise levels?

The Apogee Element 46 has four world-class mic preamps that can handle up to 75dB of gain and offer very low noise levels. Unfortunately, I don't have exact noise level specifications for the preamps. According to soundtech.co.uk, Apogee's reputation is staked on its warm, clear preamps and AD/DA conversion, and the Element 46 lives up to that reputation with glorious audio quality.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Apogee Element 46 provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Apogee Element 46 provides 48v phantom power, which is suitable for powering condenser microphones. This allows you to connect and use condenser mics, which require phantom power to operate.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the level of distortion and harmonic distortion in the preamps of the Apogee Element 46?

I'm sorry, I don't have that information available in my database. However, according to Music Critic's review, the Apogee Element 46 has "the best mic preamps."

Does the Apogee Element 46 have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps, such as analog modeling or digital processing?

The Apogee Element 46 doesn't have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps such as analog modeling or digital processing. However, the preamps themselves are known for their warm and clear sound quality, which is a hallmark of Apogee's audio gear. According to soundtech.co.uk, "Apogee's name is staked on its warm, clear preamps and AD/DA conversion and this reputation is more than upheld here; Element 46 sounds glorious, taking the best of the protocols offered by its top-of-the range Symphony interface."
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

DSP processing

The Apogee Element 46 is a professional audio recording device with powerful and flexible DSP processing, premium AD/DA conversion, and mic preamp technology, making it an excellent choice for professional audio recording needs.

The Apogee Element 46 is a professional audio recording device that features powerful and flexible DSP processing through its Element Control software. The DSP processing includes a range of EQ, compression, and reverb plugins that can be easily accessed and adjusted through the user-friendly interface.

While there are no specific limitations or restrictions on DSP processing, the device is primarily designed for professional audio recording and may not be the optimal choice for heavy DSP workloads. The Apogee FX Rack software provides a suite of plugins that are easy to use and sound great, making it a fantastic option for processing audio recordings.

Overall, the Apogee Element 46 is a high-quality device that offers premium AD/DA conversion and mic preamp technology, making it an excellent choice for professional audio recording needs.

What types of DSP processing are available in the Apogee Element 46?

The Apogee Element 46 includes a DSP feature called "Element Control," which provides software control over hardware and offers an essential front end to Apogee's preamps and A/D conversion. This feature allows you to control the input gain, phantom power, and more, while also providing access to a range of EQ, compression, and reverb plugins. According to soundtech.co.uk, this DSP processing is of the standard which has become known and admired.
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the quality of DSP processing in the Apogee Element 46?

The Apogee Element 46 features Apogee's latest AD/DA conversion and mic preamp technology, with 4 high-quality mic preamps and 8 analog inputs. It also includes Apogee's DSP processing, which offers a range of EQ, compression, and reverb effects. According to soundtech.co.uk, the DSP processing in the Element 46 is "powerful and flexible," providing users with a range of options for processing their audio.
Based on 4 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Apogee Element 46 have any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing?

According to our sources, there are no specific limitations or restrictions on DSP processing mentioned for the Apogee Element 46. However, it is important to note that this device is primarily designed for professional audio recording and not for DSP-heavy applications such as virtual instrument plugins or complex effects processing. So, while it may be able to handle some level of DSP processing, it may not be the optimal choice for heavy DSP workloads.

How user-friendly is the DSP processing interface in the Apogee Element 46?

The DSP processing interface in the Apogee Element 46 is user-friendly and intuitive to use, according to Music Radar. The Element Control software offers a range of template starting points to help you configure how you want its GUI to look. With the full range of options on display, System and Device settings are on the left, controlling Clock Source, Sample Rate, and other global preferences. Additionally, if you want hardware control over your Element interface, Apogee Control is available (separately). This compact desktop remote is powered via USB, and its controls can be set up via the Element software. Eight buttons (1-4 and A-D) can control functions such as Input Levels, phantom power, talkback, and many others, while the three buttons around the rotary at the bottom let you toggle between inputs, headphone setups, and speaker controls.
Based on 9 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Apogee Element 46 have customizable or adjustable DSP processing?

The Apogee Element 46 does not have onboard DSP processing, but it does offer Apogee's premium AD/DA conversion, which is designed to provide high-quality audio recordings. However, if you want to use DSP processing, you can use the Apogee FX Rack software, which comes with the Element Control software. The FX Rack software provides a range of plugins, including EQ, compression, and reverb, that can be used to process your audio recordings. According to a review on Music Radar, "the FX Rack is a fantastic suite of plugins that are easy to use and sound great."
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Apogee Element 46 is a Thunderbolt audio interface that is compatible with Mac and iOS devices, offering reliable and versatile performance for music production and recording.

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface is a Thunderbolt interface that is only compatible with Mac and iOS devices. It can be used with any Mac-based digital audio workstation that supports Core Audio, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, and GarageBand. The interface can also work with any Audio Units (AU) compatible application on Mac, and any AU plugins.

The Apogee interfaces have their software and plugins, such as the Apogee FX Rack, which is specifically designed to be used with their interfaces. There are no known compatibility issues with the Apogee Element 46 when used with any software or plugins. Setting up the interface is straightforward, and the Element Control software offers a range of template starting points to help configure how the GUI looks.

The software is available for Mac and iOS platforms, but it is not compatible with Windows operating systems. Overall, the Apogee Element 46 is a reliable and versatile audio interface for Mac-based music production and recording.

What operating systems are compatible with the Apogee Element 46 audio interface?

The Apogee Element 46 audio interface is only compatible with Mac and iOS devices.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) are compatible with the Apogee Element 46?

The Apogee Element 46 is compatible with any Mac-based digital audio workstation that supports Core Audio, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Cubase, and GarageBand.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What third-party plugins are compatible with the Apogee Element 46 interface?

The Apogee Element 46 can be used with any Audio Units (AU) compatible application on Mac such as Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, GarageBand, MainStage, and others. As for third-party plugins compatibility, the interface can work with any AU plugins. However, it's worth noting that the Apogee interfaces have their software and plugins, such as the Apogee FX Rack, which is specifically designed to be used with their interfaces.

Are there any known compatibility issues with Apogee Element 46 when used with certain software or plugins?

According to the sources available in ReviewFinder's database, there are no known compatibility issues with the Apogee Element 46 when used with any software or plugins. It is a Thunderbolt interface designed to work with Mac computers and is compatible with a range of DAWs, including Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and more. However, it's always a good idea to check with the software or plugin manufacturer to ensure compatibility before making a purchase.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to set up and configure the Apogee Element 46 with different software and operating systems?

According to Music Radar, setting up the Apogee Element 46 is straightforward. You simply plug in the hardware and register it via the Apogee website. The Element Control software offers a range of template starting points to help you configure how you want its GUI to look. The software is available for Mac and iOS platforms. As for different software and operating systems, the Element Control software should work with any DAW that supports Core Audio on a Mac, while the Apogee website states that it is compatible with Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, Ableton Live, and GarageBand. However, it's worth noting that the software is not compatible with Windows operating systems.
Based on 8 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Brand reputation

The Apogee Element 46 is a highly regarded audio interface with strong preamps and AD/DA conversion, versatile routing options, and consistent performance for a wide range of recording needs.

The Apogee Element 46 has a strong brand reputation in the audio recording industry for its high-quality preamps and AD/DA conversion. It is considered a complete solution for producers on the go, with minimal external requirements and plenty of routing options. The Element 46 is known for its high specs, consistent performance, and ability to handle even the highest resolution audio with little latency.

Experts have noted that the Element 46 is easily integrated into an existing rig or used as the heart of a recording studio, and never produces an issue, always enhancing creativity and never getting in the way or holding users back. Overall, the Apogee Element 46 is a reliable and versatile audio interface that is suitable for a wide range of recording needs.

What is the reputation of Apogee Element 46 in the audio recording industry?

According to various sources in the ReviewFinder database, the Apogee Element 46 has a strong reputation in the audio recording industry for its warm and clear preamps and AD/DA conversion. It is considered a complete solution for producers on the go, with minimal external requirements, plenty of routing options, and maximum invisibility once integrated. The Element 46 is known for its high specs, consistent performance, and ability to handle even the highest resolution audio, up to 192kHz @ 24-bit, with little latency. Experts have noted that the Element 46 is easily integrated into an existing rig or used as the heart of a recording studio, and never produces an issue, always enhances creativity and never gets in the way or holds you back.
Based on 11 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

How do customers perceive the customer support provided by Apogee Element 46?

I'm sorry, I do not have information on customer perception of the customer support provided by Apogee Element 46.

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 3 expert reviews of Apogee Element 46.

Expert reviews [3]

90
Total expert reviews: 3
  • with a score: 1
  • without a score: 2

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

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Position in ranking

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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals.
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Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII
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Apogee Element 46 did not receive any endorsements this month.

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ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. audio recording interfaces below are at the top of our ranking this March.

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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 rank #2 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII rank #3 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface is a versatile and reliable device with low latency levels, upgraded preamp design, and a new Air mode that enhances high-end detail, making it a great choice for solo artists and mobile recording. The PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 is a versatile and reliable audio interface with low latency, high-quality mic preamps, and compatibility with almost all recording software, making it an excellent choice for musicians, podcasters, and other audio professionals. The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality, offering a range of input and output options for recording and playback, extremely low latency levels, and powerful DSP processing capabilities. The Behringer UMC22 audio interface is a versatile and affordable device suitable for home recording, podcasting, and other similar applications, offering a range of input and output options, low latency playback, and Midas-designed preamps.
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ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.