Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Review
10x6 Thunderbolt 2 Audio Interface with Real-Time UAD Processing
- Musicians, Producers, and Songwriters
- 2 Unison Mic Preamps, 1 Hi-Z Input
- 24-Bit / 192 kHz AD/DA
- Monitoring and Talkback Control, ADAT In
- Expandable DSP and I/O
- Thunderbolt 2 Connectivity
- 1 Headphone Out, 4 Line/Monitor Outs
- External Power Supply / Mac, Windows
- DUO Core Real-Time UAD Processing
- 25 UAD Plug-Ins & Mac Recording Software
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 1,035 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII. For example, 88% of 51 users who have commented on the Tech Support of the Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 47 Reviews
Amazing Preamps
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Glen S. on Reverb
I bought the Twin Duo because there was a killer deal on plugins included with a UAD-2 Satellite, but I'd recommend getting a Quad if it's the only piece of UAD kit you're using. The preamps are incredibly good. The sound is amazing. I primarily do voice over work with it, and I bought it because I used a friend's a while ago for some work, and I'm certain it's what got me the jobs, because the engineers all wrote me and asked what preamps I was using! But, even if you don't use it for tracking, just running a track through the preamps or one of the amazing compressors or EQs that you can get from UAD creates a depth and warmth that is beautiful to the ears. I went back and added UAD plugins to some finished mixes, and the jump in quality is remarkable. I got the UAD 610 A&B, the SSL Channel Strip, and Neve 1073 Channel Strip as part of a plugin bundle deal with a Satellite, and they are truly stellar when used with the Apollo's preamps for tracking. People talk about UAD being costly, but I've found it is an incredible money saver. If I had to buy the gear to get the kind of quality UAD provide with their hardware/software combo magic, I'd have to rent a room and spend 100x as much at least. Take the plunge. It took me a long time to decide whether it was worth it, and now I feel quite the fool for not having done it sooner. ... More
Phenomenal & Top-Quality Equipment
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Bryan A. on Reverb
First time user, no experience. Here's how my first take was: Plugged everything in. Thought it was a lemon. Took be about 40 minutes of troubleshooting to get it installed only to realize that it didn't record. Another 20 minutes of troubleshooting and I finally got audio into and through it. Be prepared to be on this side of the experience when you purchase. After getting everything running, it integrated seamlessly with my DAW. I was also able to remotely control the plugins/fx /preamps/gain/volume and such in a separate and super simple console without modifying ANYTHING on the DAW. Has a ton of premium plugins, but the free ones are great and you can demo the others. Guitar preamps are "meh" but the vocal ones have been amazing so far. Compression and EQ are unparalleled. 100% would buy again. You need a Thunderbolt 2 - USB (c) thunderbolt 3 converter to plug in on the newer Mac models. That'll set you back $50.00. Look forward to exploring the intricacies of this tool. ... More
Tracking in 96k further reduces plugin count
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Jeff R. on Reverb
It's expensive, I'm sure the pre-amps are doing me justice for it...I tracked some vocals through this and I am happy. But maybe I'm just a good engineer or had a good artist that day ;) The Monitoring setup is annoying, and doesn't have the options all the manuals and instructions say it should, but eventually you figure it out. Seems the manuals all expect you to have an 8 or 8p, in addition to this. It will do what you want, it's just a little less intuitive than I wished. Don't leave it to just before the session to get it figured out. If you switch to 96k sampling rate, you lose more processing % for plugins. Didn't know that going into it. Talkback takes some getting used to, I keep switching from mic-pre to line as I'm on the wrong display mode at times. Nice that it's built-in though. All the connections on the back make me feel like this is a super sturdy piece of hardware. Every connection is very secure. The actual type (solo, duo, etc.) is on a sticker on the bottom. Otherwise, I never saw any way to really distinguish from any pictures online. At least once you get one, you can see if you got what you paid for :) Maybe smart re-sellers will take a picture of that to prove it. (I haven't seen that though). ... More
Great interface
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by David on Guitar Center
It's all around a great product does what it needs to do just need to buy thunder bolt 2 cable separate for the price it's a disappointment but other then that it works great
Pricey...But Outstanding Sound
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Steve on Guitar Center
Outstanding sound...Plug-ins are pricey...Works very well with Ableton Live p Suite!
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The UAD hype is real!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by J. @ TheShelterStudios on Guitar Center
Universal Audio has won me over and over with their analog versus digital Plug Ins. At first, I was a little skeptical in purchasing this unit after my Audient Pre's went out. I didnt want to spend a lot on a mobile rig but D/A converters are important to me. I decided to give them a shot and I was not disappointed. If you have a great mic this can be a super legit on the go setup. When I can't make it to the studio I use this unit and the Manley Voxbox and I am confident in what I am tracking. The only downside to this unit is the switching between the DAW and UAD console. As well as the learning curve of setting up Auxs. However, there are plenty of great videos, just be prepared to spend a little time learning your new gear. Thanks GC & UAD! ... More
Perfect for my home studio
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Thomas A. on Reverb
I’ve been recording stuff at home in my bedroom for nearly 20 years now, and I’ve recorded to all sorts of interfaces from 4-tracks to early digital interfaces and more modern interfaces. This interface is perfect for my needs—recording solo at home. It is so feature-rich with so many options to expand through plugins that I can’t imagine wanting to upgrade to new hardware for a long time. It’s super easy to use and sounds amazing. Worth every penny of the investment.
Yes!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Alex on Guitar Center
Was slightly skeptical of how much of a difference the Apollo would make given the price point. Plugged this thing in and started recording - it's a total game changer. Recordings I'm getting with the Apollo are cleaner than some of the fully processed vocals using my old interface.
Best Transients from a Preamp at this Price!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Micah B. on Reverb
The dynamics and transients the Apollo pres offer are unbeatable at this price point. Don’t be fooled; Focusrite and Presonus simply don’t offer these qualities. And the next big feature is Unison Technology. Stunning emulations of hardware, licensed by the companies that actually made the hardware. To top it off, UA plugs will knock your socks off! Your Waves plugs just don’t have this resolution. You don’t have to use the UA plugs, but once you start, you’ll become a fan. Universal Audio has figured out how to offer serious value to working musicians. Stop researching! Get yourself one!
High Quality audio..
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Geoff E. on Reverb
This Interface can take a bit to figure out set-up (b/c of different display modes on the hardware), monitoring options/settings, etc, but you'll figure it out eventually. The console software is great and is pretty useful for approaching things in an old-school, analog-way... think about the console, plug-ins, amp sims, etc as outboard gear. (which is a huge-plus, from my perspective). I haven't dove into it much yet, but I can say this: the plexi-amp sim is easily the most realistic sounding virtual amp I have ever heard/played. UA stuff is overpriced for sure, but the significantly better sound quality is almost worth it, if you have the money. ... More
I would buy 10 more if I could
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Wyzrs on Guitar Center
I use it for my home studio and this is by far the best investment I've ever made
Great upgrade !!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Anthony L. on Reverb
Just graduated music production school and bought this as a gift to myself. Coming from the Scarlett 2i2 I was blown away with the sound coming out of my new M1 imac with Yamaha hs8s. About to start my bachelors degree program and can’t wait to build my collection now. If you are a beginner go with the Scarlett, but if you are serious about music production and have the money now, buy this or the twin X as soon as you can. This thing takes a huge load off my systems cpu. That in itself is worth every penny. Especially if you have an older iMac or MacBook. I give this a 9.5/10 ... More
Instant satisfaction
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Hustler on Guitar Center
Historically I have been a Motu user. Satisfied for at least a couple of decades. Things change, they always do. My Apollo Twin Duo was instant satisfaction. Now it's just getting more plug-ins overtime. Good investment. So far so good.
Interface works perfectly fine, Had to get a new power adapter though but no BIG deal.
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Gerren S. on Reverb
This company got my interface to me very fast I think within a day or 2 after I ordered it. I ordered B-Stock which is basically refurbished so i expected some little things to be kind of wrong but the interface was in mint shape and the only thing i had to get was another power adapter for it because the one that came with it one of the prongs in the adapter were bent a little. but that was no big deal being the power cable is only 30 bucks. Overall GREATTTT DEAL for a Apollo twin Mk2 DUO.
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Matthew M. on Reverb
Absolutely love this interface. The UA plugins are a game changer for recording. All the outboard gear you could want in one box. Since the plugins run directly from the Apollo, you are limited to how many instances can be run at once, but if you think about it as an outboard rack used for only pre-DAW processing, it makes total sense. You can also expand with multiple interfaces, so if you do eventually find it limiting you're not necessarily locked in.
Love it
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Carson on Guitar Center
Haven't even gotten very deep into what it can do and I love it. Just sent vocals through a preamp and immediately felt the upgrade.
Love love love it!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Jacob W. on Reverb
Was using a 18i20 for a while and didn’t have any real complaints but wow, I am head over heals for UA and their hardware /Console software. I’m getting polished sounds very easily now. The free plugins are also the best I’ve ever used. Very intuitive workflow and good quality. Will definitely continue to be a customer.
Really great interface. Love the plugins!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Max on Guitar Center
I would definitely recommend it
Killer product!
Universal Audio Apollo Twin MKII DUO Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Swice on Guitar Center
I use this with ProTools to record in my home.. crazy awesome product!
Incredible
Universal Audio Apollo Twin DUO MKII Thunderbolt Audio Interface
Reviewed by Roberto P. on Reverb
I was astonished at the hugely noticeable difference in the quality of audio I was recording with this interface compared to my Focusrite 2i4. Best decision I ever made, and money very happily spent on this product.
