Antelope Audio Zenith 2 is a new, compact, budget-friendly 2-channel 32-bit USB-C audio & MIDI interface with built-in DSP.
A compact audio interface should have at least two channels with pre-amps, USB-C connectivity, be class-compliant, and include built-in MIDI. Those would be features that would satisfy me.
Antelope Audio has released the new Zenith 2, which fits perfectly in this category. However, it’s not just another classic audio / MIDI interface because it offers built-in high-quality DSP.
Antelope Audio Zenith 2
Zenith 2 is a new entry-level class-compliant USB-C audio interface compatible with macOS, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.
According to Antelope Audio, it delivers console-grade preamp performance, professional AD/DA conversion, and onboard DSP effects to musicians, producers, podcasters, and streamers.
It’s class-compliant, but alternative custom low-latency Mac and Windows drivers are also available when needed.
It features two audio inputs with state-of-the-art AD/DA convertors with 32-bit/192 kHz resolution and up to 123 dB dynamic range.
Each channel also features a discrete 6-transistor mic preamp with 75 dB gain, supporting dynamic mics, condensors, and instruments (48V phantom power, Hi-Z, line inputs).
A highlight of the new Antelope Audio Zenith 2 is its integrated DSP, which enables real-time processing of audio inputs. You can work with a compressor, Sky EQ, and De-Esser that are controllable with a simple OFF-1-2-3 intensity dial.
They promise zero perceptible latency, using the DSP core.
For high-quality live content, the interface features built-in Loopback, effortlessly blending mic, music, and stream audio.
Further, live monitoring is possible via two powerful, independent headphone outs, each with dedicated volume controls and ample gain to drive high-impedance headphones.
On the connection side, it offers two inputs, a stereo TRS monitor out, two independent TRS headphone outs (drives high-impedance cans), and full-size 5-pin MIDI in and out.
First Impression
An intriguing new USB-C audio interface. It’s certainly priced at the upper end of the entry-level range, but it offers high-quality features such as built-in DSP and 32-bit support.
Antelope Audio Zenith 2 will be available in December 2025 for $299 USD / 299 € RPP. You can pre-order it now. On top, they announced their Black Friday sale, offering up to 71% OFF discounts on their plugins. It’s valid until November 30, 2025.
More information here: Antelope Audio
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Thomann
Interesting, even more interesting that the awful song nearly made me turn away.