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Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII

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12 Verified Hands-On Reviews

To combat fake reviews we only accept video reviews from verified channels. Each review must show the product and the face of the reviewer.

Expert reviews [12]

99
Total expert reviews: 12
  • with a score: 3
  • without a score: 9
Highest score by Music Radar
100
Average score based on 12 reviews
99
Lowest score by PremierGuitar
96

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20
ReviewFinder: authentic product reviews summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

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 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. It offers a range of input and output options for recording and playback, including two premium mic/line preamps, a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, and a headphone output, as well as two line outputs and up to eight channels of digital input via Optical TOSLINK connection.

The interface also features extremely low latency levels, making it ideal for recording and monitoring, and powerful DSP processing capabilities with three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations. The Apollo Twin MKII is highly compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, as well as all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Cubase, and Live.

Its strong brand reputation in the audio recording industry and positive customer support make it a reliable choice for those who may encounter initial setup roadblocks. Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a powerful and customizable tool for recording and mixing, offering a range of DSP processing options to suit different needs.

Input/output options

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface offers a range of input and output options for recording and playback, making it a versatile and high-quality choice for musicians and producers.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface offers a range of input and output options for recording and playback. It has two premium mic/line preamps, a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, and a headphone output, as well as two line outputs and up to eight channels of digital input via Optical TOSLINK connection.

The interface also features two digitally controlled analog monitor outputs and can be used for both recording and playback simultaneously. This makes it an ideal choice for musicians and producers who want to monitor their recordings in real-time while also having access to a range of input and output options for their audio needs.

Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface that can meet the needs of a wide range of users.

What are the input and output options for the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface has two mic/line preamps, two line outputs, a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, and a headphone output. It also has up to eight channels of digital input available via Optical TOSLINK connection. The interface has a total of 10 inputs and 6 outputs. Additionally, there are two digitally controlled analog monitor outputs and eight channels of digital input via Optical connection.
Based on 6 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII has two mic/line inputs, one Hi-Z instrument input, two line outputs, two digitally controlled monitor outputs, and up to eight channels of digital input via Optical connection. It also has stereo monitor and headphone outputs, and eight digital outputs via ADAT cable.
Based on 10 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the specifications and capabilities of the inputs and outputs on the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface has 2 premium mic/line preamps, 2 line outputs, a front-panel Hi-Z instrument input, and headphone output. It also has 2 digitally controlled analog monitor outputs and up to 8 channels of digital input via Optical connection. The total I/O tally of the Apollo Twin MkII is 10×6, which includes 2 Unison mic/line preamps, 2 line outputs, 2 monitor outputs (at full resolution), a front panel Hi-Z instrument input, and a headphone output. Additionally, it has 8 channels of digital input available via Optical TOSLINK connection. The unit communicates with your computer via Thunderbolt cable.
Based on 9 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII be used for recording and playback simultaneously?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII can be used for both recording and playback simultaneously. The interface has two digitally controlled monitor outputs, so you can monitor your recording while it's happening in real-time. This feature is helpful for musicians and producers who want to hear their recordings as they're being made.
Based on 5 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Latency

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface is praised for its extremely low latency levels, making it ideal for recording and monitoring with virtually no noticeable delay.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface has been praised by experts for its extremely low latency levels, making it ideal for recording and monitoring. The input latency is as low as 1. 1ms, and the output latency is as low as 1.

2ms, which means that there is virtually no noticeable delay when using the UAD plug-ins in real-time. This makes it easier to play virtual instruments in real-time, as the delay is barely noticeable. The built-in DSP also provides even better latency when monitoring. Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a great choice for musicians and producers who require low latency levels for their recording and monitoring needs.

What is the latency of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII when recording and monitoring?

According to audiouniversityonline.com, the roundtrip latency of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface is nearly non-existent. The latency when monitoring through the built-in DSP is even better.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the latency levels of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII and how do they affect the recording and monitoring process?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII has extremely low latency levels, especially when using Realtime UAD Processing. According to musictech.com, the input latency is as low as 1.1ms, and the output latency is as low as 1.2ms. This means that when using the UAD plug-ins in real-time, there is virtually no noticeable delay, making it ideal for recording and monitoring. The low latency levels also make it easier to play virtual instruments in real-time, as the delay is barely noticeable.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Preamp quality

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a high-quality audio interface with Unison-equipped mic/line preamps, Realtime UAD Processing, and a bundle of UAD plug-ins for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a high-quality audio interface that features two Unison-equipped mic/line preamps with a gain range of +10 dB to +65 dB, switchable phantom power, and an equivalent input noise rating of -129 dBu. The preamps are designed to have a classic analog sound with high headroom and improved noise performance.

The unit also includes Unison technology, which allows the preamp to mimic the impedance and gain staging of analog gear, resulting in a more authentic and natural sound. The Realtime UAD Processing allows for the use of the UAD family of plug-in processors in real-time for the input recording path, including virtual solid-state preamps, guitar amps, and stomp boxes with near-zero latency.

The Apollo Twin MKII comes with Universal Audio's Realtime Analog Classics UAD plug-in bundle, which includes legacy versions of the LA-2A Classic Audio Leveler, 1176LN Limiting Amplifier, and Pultec EQP-1A Program Equalizer, among others. Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a versatile and high-quality audio interface that is suitable for professional recording studios, home studios, and musicians who demand the best in preamp quality.

What is the frequency response range of the preamps in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The frequency response range of the preamps in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is not explicitly stated in the sources available in ReviewFinder's database. However, according to the product description on Universal Audio's website, the Apollo Twin MKII's preamps are designed to have a classic analog sound, with high headroom and improved noise performance.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

How many preamps are included in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII, and what are their gain and noise levels?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII includes two Unison-equipped mic/line preamps, which are designed to mimic the impedance and gain staging of classic analog preamps. According to sonicscoop.com, these preamps have a gain range of +10 dB to +65 dB, with a maximum input level of +20 dBu and an equivalent input noise (EIN) rating of -129 dBu. The preamps also have switchable phantom power (+48V) for use with condenser microphones.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII provides phantom power for condenser microphones. According to Music Radar, the unit's dual mic preamps can supply +48V phantom power for use with condenser microphones.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the level of distortion and harmonic distortion in the preamps of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

According to the manufacturer's website, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII features "uncompromising analog design" and "superior components" for high-quality audio conversion. However, I couldn't find specific information about the level of distortion or harmonic distortion in the preamps.

Does the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII have any additional features or technologies that affect the quality of the preamps, such as analog modeling or digital processing?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII has Unison™ technology that allows the preamp to mimic the impedance and gain staging of analog gear, resulting in a more authentic and natural sound. The Realtime UAD Processing also allows for the use of the UAD family of plug-in processors in real-time for the input recording path, which includes virtual solid-state preamps, guitar amps, and stomp boxes with near-zero latency. Additionally, the Apollo Twin MKII comes with Universal Audio's Realtime Analog Classics UAD plug-in bundle, which includes legacy versions of the LA-2A Classic Audio Leveler, 1176LN Limiting Amplifier, and Pultec EQP-1A Program Equalizer, among others.
Based on 9 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

DSP processing

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII offers powerful DSP processing capabilities with three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations, making it a highly valuable tool for recording and mixing.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII offers powerful DSP processing capabilities with three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations: SOLO, DUO, or QUAD (four SHARC chips) models. The new UAD-2 QUAD Core processing available in the Apollo Twin MkII enables users to offload even more CPU duties to the interface itself, making it a highly valuable tool for recording and mixing.

The real-time processing capabilities of the interface make it easy to monitor and adjust effects in real-time during recording. The DSP processing interface is user-friendly and intuitive, allowing for easy access to the interface's DSP processing capabilities, and users can quickly navigate and adjust settings for their effects plugins.

However, there may still be limitations or restrictions on DSP processing depending on the number and complexity of the plug-ins being used. Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a powerful and customizable tool for recording and mixing, offering a range of DSP processing options to suit different needs.

What types of DSP processing are available in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is available in three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations: SOLO, DUO, or QUAD (four SHARC chips) models, according to Music Connection and sonicscoop.com.
Based on 8 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the quality of DSP processing in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII comes with your choice of three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations, namely SOLO, DUO, or the new QUAD (four SHARC chips) models. According to Music Connection, the new UAD-2 QUAD Core processing available in the Apollo Twin MkII enables you to take what the Apollo offers even further than before, offloading even more CPU duties to the interface itself. Reviewers have praised the real-time processing capabilities of the Apollo Twin MkII, making it a highly valuable tool for recording and mixing.
Based on 4 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII have any limitations or restrictions on DSP processing?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII comes in three different levels of UAD-2 processing: SOLO, DUO, or QUAD. The QUAD model has four SHARC chips, which allows for more processing power. However, even with the QUAD model, there may still be limitations or restrictions on DSP processing depending on the number and complexity of the plug-ins being used. It's important to keep in mind that while the Apollo Twin MKII offers powerful processing capabilities, it's always a good idea to monitor the CPU usage to avoid overloading the system.
Based on 4 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

How user-friendly is the DSP processing interface in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The DSP processing interface in the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is generally considered to be user-friendly and intuitive, according to various expert reviews. The Console application allows for easy access to the interface's DSP processing capabilities, and users can quickly navigate and adjust settings for their effects plugins. Additionally, the real-time processing capabilities of the interface make it easy to monitor and adjust effects in real-time during recording.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII have customizable or adjustable DSP processing?

Yes, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII comes with your choice of three different levels of UAD-2 processing via different SHARC DSP chip set configurations: SOLO, DUO, or QUAD (four SHARC chips) models. This allows for customizable and adjustable DSP processing according to your needs.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface is highly compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems and all major DAWs, and runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, RTAS, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface is highly compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, as well as all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Cubase, and Live. It runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, RTAS, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs and is designed to work seamlessly with the UAD-2 plugins via the UAD software.

The interface is also compatible with VST, AU, RTAS, and AAX 64-bit plugins in all major recording software. While initial setup may require some troubleshooting, once the interface is up and running, it should work with a variety of software and operating systems. There may be some roadblocks during the initial setup, which may be exclusive to a particular setup, computer, operating system, or version of Pro Tools.

In such cases, UA customer support can be helpful in resolving the issues. Overall, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a highly compatible audio interface that is suitable for a wide range of recording needs.

What operating systems are compatible with the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII audio interface is compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems.
Based on 6 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) are compatible with the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is compatible with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Cubase, Live, and more. It runs UAD Powered Plug-Ins via VST, RTAS, and AAX 64 in all major DAWs.
Based on 14 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]

What third-party plugins are compatible with the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII interface?

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII interface is compatible with VST, AU, RTAS, and AAX 64-bit plugins in all major recording software. Additionally, it is designed to work seamlessly with the UAD-2 plugins via the UAD software. There are hundreds of third-party plugins available in the UAD store, ranging in price from £75 to £299. However, it's important to note that UA plug-ins only run on UA hardware, so the Apollo Twin MKII is required to use these plugins.
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any known compatibility issues with Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII when used with certain software or plugins?

According to the sources available in ReviewFinder's database, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is compatible with all major DAWs and runs UAD-2 plugins via VST, AU, RTAS, and AAX 64-bit. However, there may be some roadblocks during the initial setup, which may be exclusive to a particular setup, computer, operating system, or version of Pro Tools. In such cases, UA customer support can be helpful in resolving the issues.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How easy is it to set up and configure the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII with different software and operating systems?

According to a review from sonicscoop.com, the initial setup of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin MkII can be a bit tricky and may require troubleshooting steps such as a full PRAM/NVRAM/SMC reset and a full Pro Tools preferences reset. However, the reviewer notes that these issues may have been exclusive to their particular setup, and that UA customer support was helpful in resolving any problems. It's also worth noting that the reviewer was running an older operating system (OS X 10.9.5) with Pro Tools 11, which may have contributed to the setup difficulties. Overall, while initial setup may require some troubleshooting, once the interface is up and running, it should work with a variety of software and operating systems.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Brand reputation

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is a highly recommended audio recording interface with superb audio quality, reliable build, and positive customer support, making it a popular choice among professionals in the industry.

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII has a strong brand reputation in the audio recording industry, with experts praising its quality and reliability. The product has received high recommendations from experts, with PremierGuitar noting its superb audio quality and studio and stage-worthy build.

Customers generally perceive the product and its customer support positively, with a Consumer score (CS) of 8. 7, higher than the median Audio Recording Interfaces consumer score of 8. 6. The Apollo Twin MkII is suitable for professional audio recording and production, with its high-quality audio and reliable build making it a popular choice among musicians, producers, and engineers.

Its customer support has also been praised by some users, making it a reliable choice for those who may encounter initial setup roadblocks.

What is the reputation of Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII in the audio recording industry?

According to sonicscoop.com, the legacy of the Putnam family has cemented Universal Audio as one of the most reputable and trusted brands the audio industry has ever seen. The Apollo Twin MkII is no exception and continues to deliver on Universal Audio's reputation for quality. Furthermore, PremierGuitar says that the audio quality of the Apollo Twin MkII is superb and the build is not only studio-worthy but also stage-worthy. In general, the Apollo Twin MkII has received high praises and recommendations from experts in the audio recording industry.
Based on 12 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]

How do customers perceive the customer support provided by Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII?

According to a verified product expert on sonicscoop.com, the customer support provided by Universal Audio for the Apollo Twin MkII more than made up for any initial setup roadblocks encountered. However, this is only one individual's experience and may not reflect the experiences of all customers. The Consumer score (CS) of Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII is 8.7, which is higher than the median Audio Recording Interfaces consumer score of 8.6, suggesting that customers generally perceive the product and its customer support positively.
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

Best Alternatives

3 best audio recording interfaces in the same price range as Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII

Scroll to see all options. Click on the audio interface for more details.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Behringer UMC22
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 rank #1 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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9.1
Great
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PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 rank #2 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.3
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Behringer UMC22 rank #4 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
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8.7
Great
Price
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 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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Audio Recording Interfaces above are offered because they are in the same price range as Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII. To browse more budget and premium audio recording interfaces go to our audio interface ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all audio recording interfaces.

Rank Change Price Audio Interface
hollyland.com
bandpioneer.com
ElectronicsHub
Musician on a Mission
Sweetwater
Consordini
Your Guitar Brain
EDM Sauce
Wirecutter
Music Radar
1
- $199
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
1
-
-
2
-
2
1
-
1
-
2
- $88
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96
3
3
-
1
15
-
-
4
-
-
3
- Check price
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII
2
-
-
8
-
1
-
-
-
-
4
- $62
Behringer UMC22
-
-
2
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
Show all rows
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII ranks #3 out of 14 in this month's ranking:
Recommended for Solo Artists
22 Jan 2020 (4 years ago)
Read article
The ultimate best audio interface in 2024
30 Jun 2023 (10 months ago)
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Highest recommended audio recording interfaces this month

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 April.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the audio interface for more details.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII (this item) Behringer UMC22
Reviews
In comparison:
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 rank #1 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.1
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 rank #2 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.3
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII rank #3 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.7
Great
Reviews
In comparison:
Behringer UMC22 rank #4 out of 125. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.7
Great
Price
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.
More product details More product details More product details More product details