Universal Audio has minimally upgraded its Arrow DSP-powered Thunderbolt 3 audio interface by recoloring, renaming (Apollo Solo) and also offering it as a USB 3 version
In 2018 Universal Audio (UAD) released the Arrow, an audio interface with a built-in DSP. This was the first UAD interface for the 500€ price range. Now there is a hardware update for the interface, but not much has changed. Actually just the name, color, and the connection port.
The newly released Univeral Audio Apollo Solo is basically a rebranded Arrow that offers the same feature set: records at up to 192kHz/24bit resolution, two XLR-1/4” combo inputs with Unison microphone preamps, a Hi-Z instrument input in the front, two line outputs, and a headphone output. Also, the DSP hasn’t received an update. As the Arrow, the Apollo Solo features a single DSP core for processing UAD only plugins in real-time.
Thunderbolt 3 & USB-C Versions
Besides a new lighter colored case, the Apollo Solo is now available in both Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3 versions. This is a big plus for Windows users because the Arrow only supported Thunderbolt 3, a technology that is still far less common on PCs than on Macs. This means that both Windows and Mac users can connect the Apollo Solo directly, using the same connector. One thing is, however, important: the USB 3 unit requires an external power supply, while the Thunderbolt 3 version runs on bus power.
S0ftware Bundle
Universal Audio Apollo Solo features 14 plugins including the Realtime Analog Classics bundle, which contains emulations of studio classics like the Teletronix LA-2A, UA 1176LN, and Pultec EQP-1A, as well as several plug-ins from the UAD Precision series and a couple of guitar and bass amp simulations. LUNA, Universal Audio’s own DAW, announced at NAMM 2020 is also included but only in the Thunderbolt 3 version and it runs only on macOS.
Key Features
- Desktop 2×4 USB 3 audio interface for Windows 10 with class‑leading 24‑bit/192 kHz audio conversion
- Unison mic preamp and guitar amp emulations from Neve,® API,® Manley,® Marshall,® Fender,® and more*
- Realtime UAD Processing allows near‑zero latency tracking with classic UAD plug‑in effects, regardless of software buffer setting
- Includes studio compressors, EQs, reverbs, and guitar amp emulations, and more as part of “Realtime Analog Classics” bundle
- Best‑in‑class headphone amplifier for loud, detailed, low‑noise monitoring
Universal Audio Apollo Solo is available now for $499 USD/499€
More information here: UAD
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