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Quick answer: The Apollo x4 Gen 2 ESS is a Universal Audio Apollo audio interface with onboard DSP for realtime UAD plug-in processing while you record. Priced at $1699.00, sold brand-new by Victory Musical Instruments, a veteran-owned authorized UA dealer in Miami, FL. Questions? Call 844-687-4208.
Record hits with the world's most powerful desktop audio interface. The Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2 ESS delivers elite-class 24-bit / 192 kHz conversion, four Unison-enabled mic preamps, and onboard QUAD Core DSP — letting you track through legendary UAD plug-ins from Neve, API, Manley, Auto-Tune, and hundreds more with near-zero latency.
At a Glance
| Brand | Universal Audio |
|---|---|
| Model | Apollo x4 Gen 2 ESS |
| Category | Audio Interface |
| Form factor | Desktop |
| Connection | Thunderbolt 3 |
| Computer compatibility | Mac & Windows |
| Price | $1699.00 |
| SKU / MPN | APX4G2-ESS |
| Condition | New (factory sealed) |
| Warranty | Full Universal Audio manufacturer warranty |
| Sold by | Victory Musical Instruments — veteran-owned authorized UA dealer, Miami FL |
Overview
The Apollo x4 Gen 2 is built for the serious producer, engineer, or recording musician who needs studio-grade performance in a desktop footprint. With 12 inputs, 18 outputs, and a 129 dB dynamic range, it captures every nuance of a performance while feeding back a monitor signal accurate enough to make confident mix decisions. The Essentials+ Edition includes 30+ UAD plug-ins covering preamps, compressors, EQs, reverbs, and instruments — a complete recording starter library out of the box.
Key Features
- Elite-Class Conversion — Apollo X Gen 2 converters at 24-bit / 192 kHz with a 129 dB dynamic range, the widest in any Apollo to date.
- Four Unison Mic Preamps — Track through authentic emulations of Neve, API, Manley, SSL, Fender, and dozens more classic preamps and amps.
- QUAD Core DSP — Four SHARC processors run UAD plug-ins in realtime, independent of your computer's CPU.
- Two Hi-Z Instrument Inputs — Plug guitars and basses directly into the front panel.
- Optical Toslink I/O — Expand with ADAT or S/PDIF digital connections.
- Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks® — Calibrate your main monitors and headphones for accurate playback in any room.
- Updated UAD Console — Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, Bass Management for subwoofer integration, immersive audio support, and integrated talkback.
- Two TRS Headphone Outputs — Independent volume control for collaborative sessions.
Connectivity & Workflow
Apollo x4 Gen 2 connects via Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Mac and Windows systems, with two 1/4" monitor outputs, four 1/4" line outputs configurable as ALT 1 / 2 speaker switching, and integrated talkback for easy communication with talent. The interface is fully featured as a monitor controller, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated unit.
Onboard DSP supports over 200 UAD plug-ins in VST, AU, and AAX 64 formats — compatible with LUNA, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, and every other major DAW. As your studio grows, expand by linking up to four Thunderbolt Apollo interfaces for 128 channels of premium I/O, or add Dante via the Apollo x16D.
Essentials+ Plug-In Bundle
Includes a comprehensive starter library covering every essential studio process:
- Channel Strips & Preamps — Century Tube, CS-1, Helios Type 69, Precision Channel Strip, UA 610-A and 610-B.
- Compressors — Fairchild 670 Legacy, Teletronix LA-2A (Classic / Gray / Silver / Legacy), UA 1176LN Legacy, UA 1176SE Legacy.
- EQs — Helios Type 69, full Pultec suite (EQP-1A, HLF-3C, MEQ-5).
- Effects & Instruments — Auto-Tune Realtime Access, Oxide Tape Recorder, Galaxy Tape Echo, Pure Plate Reverb, PolyMAX Synth, Ampeg SVT-VR, Marshall Plexi, and more.
What's in the Box
- Apollo x4 Gen 2 audio interface
- External power supply
- Thunderbolt 3 cable (USB-C)
- Essentials+ UAD plug-in bundle (digital download via UA Connect)
- Free industry-leading technical support from UA's audio engineers
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this Apollo work on Windows, Mac, or both?
This Thunderbolt Apollo works on both Mac and Windows computers that have a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port.
Can I run UAD plug-ins in realtime while tracking?
Yes. Apollo's onboard DSP runs UAD plug-ins at near-zero latency, so you can print or monitor through analog emulations of classic preamps, compressors, EQs, and amps as you record.
What plug-ins are included with the Essentials edition?
The Essentials edition includes a UAD plug-in bundle selected by Universal Audio covering compressors, EQs, reverbs, tape, and preamps. Higher tiers include more titles; current contents are published by UA.
What's included in the box?
Your purchase includes: Apollo x4 Gen 2 audio interface, External power supply, Thunderbolt 3 cable (USB-C), Essentials+ UAD plug-in bundle (digital download via UA Connect), Free industry-leading technical support from UA's audio engineers.
Is the Apollo x4 Gen 2 ESS a genuine Universal Audio product?
Yes. Victory Musical Instruments is a veteran-owned, authorized Universal Audio dealer based in Miami, FL. Every unit is brand-new, factory-sealed, and covered by the full UA manufacturer warranty.
Can I get help choosing or setting it up?
Absolutely. You'll talk to real people, not a call center. Call us at 844-687-4208 and we'll help you spec the right gear and get it running.
Why Buy from Victory Musical Instruments
Victory Musical Instruments is a veteran-owned authorized retailer based in Miami, FL. We carry Universal Audio because we trust the gear — and we back every interface we sell with real human support, fast shipping, and the kind of follow-through that only comes from a small dedicated team. Active duty, veterans, reservists, and eligible family members save with our military discount program via ID.me.