Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Studio + Edition User Manual

Introduction

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Studio + Edition is a high-resolution Thunderbolt 3 audio interface designed for professional studio recording. It features next-generation audio conversion, dual Unison mic preamps, and QUAD Core DSP processing, enabling real-time recording through a vast library of UAD plug-ins. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Apollo Twin X interface.

Key Features

Next-generation audio conversion with wide dynamic range and low distortion.
Unison preamps for authentic emulations of classic analog hardware from Neve, API, Avalon, Manley, Fender, and more.
Access to over 200 UAD DSP and Native plug-ins, including award-winning titles.
Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks for confident mixing in any environment.
Use Auto-Gain to set your levels across multiple inputs in seconds and never miss the take.

Setup Guide

Follow these steps to set up your Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD Gen 2 Studio + Edition:

Unpack the Device: Carefully remove the Apollo Twin X from its packaging. Ensure all components, including the power supply and any included documentation, are present.
Connect Power: Connect the included 12V DC power adapter to the Apollo Twin X and then to a power outlet.
Connect to Computer: Use a Thunderbolt 3 cable (not included) to connect the Apollo Twin X to your computer's Thunderbolt 3 port. Ensure your computer meets the system requirements for Thunderbolt connectivity.
Install Software: Visit the Universal Audio website to download and install the latest UAD software and drivers for your operating system (Windows or macOS). Follow the on-screen instructions for installation and registration.
Connect Audio Devices: Connect your microphones, instruments, and studio monitors to the appropriate inputs and outputs on the Apollo Twin X. Refer to the 'Product Overview' section for port identification.
Configure Software: Launch the UAD Console application. This software allows you to control the Apollo Twin X's settings, route audio, and manage UAD plug-ins.

Front view of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface with illuminated meters and controls.

Image: Front view of the Apollo Twin X, showing the main control knob, input/monitor meters, and function buttons.

Operating Your Apollo Twin X

The Apollo Twin X offers advanced features for professional audio production. Understanding its core functionalities will enhance your workflow.

Unison Preamps

The Unison technology allows the Apollo Twin X's mic preamps to emulate the impedance, gain stage 'sweet spots,' and component-level circuit behaviors of classic analog preamps. When you insert a Unison-enabled UAD plug-in into a mic input, the hardware preamp physically reconfigures itself to match the chosen emulation.

Studio setup with various UAD hardware and software plugins displayed on a computer monitor, labeled 'UNISON ENABLED'.

Image: A studio environment showcasing the Unison Enabled feature, with various virtual preamps and effects on screen.

UAD Plug-ins

The Apollo Twin X leverages its onboard QUAD Core DSP to run UAD Powered Plug-Ins with near-zero latency. These plug-ins are authentic emulations of classic analog hardware from renowned manufacturers. You can use them for tracking, mixing, and mastering within your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).

Image: A visual representation of the extensive UAD plug-in library available with the Studio + Edition.

Auto-Gain and Monitor Correction

The Auto-Gain feature simplifies setting input levels, allowing you to quickly optimize your signal without clipping. Apollo Monitor Correction, powered by Sonarworks, helps calibrate your monitoring environment, ensuring accurate and reliable mixes regardless of your room acoustics or headphone characteristics.

Screenshot of the UAD Console software interface showing input settings, monitor mode, and a graph for speaker calibration.

Image: Screenshot of the UAD Console software, highlighting Auto-Gain and monitor correction settings.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Apollo Twin X:

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the device. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.
Ventilation: Ensure the device has adequate ventilation. Do not block the vents, and avoid placing it in enclosed spaces that could lead to overheating.
Cable Management: Keep cables organized and free from kinks or excessive tension to prevent damage to connectors and ports.
Software Updates: Regularly check the Universal Audio website for software and firmware updates. Keeping your software up-to-date ensures compatibility and access to the latest features and bug fixes.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Apollo Twin X, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the device and a working power outlet. Check the power switch on the rear panel.
No Audio Input/Output: Verify all audio cables are correctly connected. Check input/output routing in the UAD Console and your DAW. Ensure sample rates match across all devices.
Device Not Recognized: Confirm the Thunderbolt 3 cable is properly connected. Restart your computer and the Apollo Twin X. Ensure the latest UAD drivers are installed and your computer's Thunderbolt port is enabled and functioning correctly.
Software Crashes/Performance Issues: Ensure your computer meets the minimum system requirements. Close unnecessary applications. Update UAD software and your operating system.
Distorted Audio: Check input gain levels to prevent clipping. Ensure monitor levels are appropriate. Verify sample rate and buffer size settings in your DAW and UAD Console.

For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the comprehensive support resources available on the Universal Audio website.

Technical Specifications

Feature	Specification
Brand	Universal Audio
Model Number	PCM0018202-000
Connectivity Technology	Thunderbolt
Number of Channels	32
Operating System	Windows, macOS
Supported Software	DAW software and UAD plug-ins
Compatible Devices	Personal Computer
Item Weight	4.4 pounds
Product Dimensions	0.79 x 0.79 x 0.55 inches

Warranty and Support

Universal Audio products are designed for reliability and performance. For specific warranty details, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Universal Audio website. Support resources, including FAQs, knowledge base articles, and contact information for technical assistance, are available online.

Optional protection plans are available for purchase, offering extended coverage beyond the standard manufacturer's warranty. These plans may include:

3-Year Protection Plan
4-Year Protection Plan
Complete Protect (monthly billing option)

For the most current information on warranty terms and support options, please visit the Universal Audio Store on Amazon or the official Universal Audio website.

Product Overview

Front view of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface. — **Front View:** Displays the main control knob, input/monitor level meters, and dedicated function buttons for preamp, input, talk, dim, alt, +48V, pad, FCN, mono, link, and mute.

Angled view of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface. — **Angled View:** Shows the sleek design and compact form factor of the Apollo Twin X, with front-panel headphone and Hi-Z inputs visible.

Top-down view of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface. — **Top View:** A clear overhead perspective of the interface, highlighting the central large knob and button layout.

Rear view of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin X audio interface showing all ports. — **Rear View:** Displays the optical input, Thunderbolt 3 port, power input, line outputs (3-4), monitor outputs (L/R), and two Mic/Line combo inputs (1-2).

Box art for UAD Studio + software. — **UAD Studio + Box:** Packaging for the included UAD Studio + software bundle.

Box art for UAD Studio + software with 'Over 50 plug-ins' label. — **UAD Studio + Box with Plug-in Count:** Highlights that the Studio + bundle includes over 50 plug-ins.

UAD Essentials+ software box alongside a collection of virtual audio plugins. — **UAD Essentials+ Bundle:** Shows the Essentials+ software box and a selection of included virtual audio plugins.

UAD Studio+ software box alongside a collection of virtual audio plugins. — **UAD Studio+ Bundle:** Displays the Studio+ software box and a more extensive collection of virtual audio plugins.

A studio desk setup with a microphone on a stand, studio monitors, and the Apollo Twin X interface. — **Studio Setup Example 1:** An example of the Apollo Twin X integrated into a studio desk setup with a microphone and monitors.

A microphone connected to the Apollo Twin X interface, which is connected to a laptop displaying a DAW. — **Portable Setup Example:** Illustrates the Apollo Twin X connected to a microphone and a laptop, ideal for mobile recording.

A person operating the Apollo Twin X interface on a studio desk with a computer monitor displaying audio software. — **User Interaction:** A user interacting with the Apollo Twin X interface during a recording session.

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Universal Audio PCM0018202-000