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Quick answer: The Apollo x8p Gen 2 ESS is a Universal Audio Apollo audio interface with onboard DSP for realtime UAD plug-in processing while you record. Priced at $3299.00, sold brand-new by Victory Musical Instruments, a veteran-owned authorized UA dealer in Miami, FL. Questions? Call 844-687-4208.
Record big sessions with eight Unison preamps. The Universal Audio Apollo x8p Gen 2 Essentials+ Edition is a 16 In / 22 Out rackmount Thunderbolt 3 audio interface with eight Unison-enabled mic preamps and HEXA Core DSP — UA's go-to rack interface for tracking bands, full drum kits, and large live setups.
At a Glance
| Brand | Universal Audio |
|---|---|
| Model | Apollo x8p Gen 2 ESS |
| Category | Audio Interface |
| Form factor | Rackmount |
| Connection | Thunderbolt 3 |
| Computer compatibility | Mac & Windows |
| Price | $3299.00 |
| SKU / MPN | APX8PG2-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 "p" in x8p stands for preamps — eight of them, all Unison-enabled. Where the x8 trades two preamps for additional line inputs, the x8p doubles down on tracking capability, making it the right choice for engineers who consistently record full bands, drum kits, or multi-instrument sessions. Combined with elite-class Apollo X Gen 2 conversion, HEXA Core DSP, and 7.1 surround monitoring, it's a complete tracking and mixing front end in one 1U rack space.
Key Features
- Elite-Class Apollo X Gen 2 Conversion — 24-bit / 192 kHz with Dual-Crystal Clocking for ultra-low jitter at all sample rates.
- Eight Unison Mic Preamps — Authentic emulations of Neve, API, Manley, SSL, Avalon, and Helios on every channel. Two front-panel Hi-Z instrument inputs share the front-panel preamps.
- HEXA Core DSP — Six SHARC processors for realtime UAD plug-in processing, 50% more DSP power than previous-generation Apollos.
- 16 In / 22 Out I/O — 8 Unison preamps (XLR + 1/4" combo), 2 Hi-Z instrument inputs, DB-25 input (line 1-8), 2 x 1/4" monitor outs, DB-25 output (ALT / 7.1 surround), 2 x 1/4" TRS headphone outs, 2 optical Toslink I/O (ADAT S/MUX or S/PDIF), BNC word clock I/O
- 7.1 Surround Monitoring Support — Native surround mode for film, TV, game audio, and immersive music production.
- Apollo Monitor Correction by Sonarworks® — Calibrate main monitors (stereo or immersive) and headphones for accurate playback (available add-on).
- Updated UAD Console — Auto-Gain, Plug-In Scenes, Bass Management, Monitor Controller with ALT speaker switching, and integrated talkback.
- +24 dBu Headroom (Switchable) — Console-level compatibility for integration with high-end pro audio gear.
- Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) — Two TB3 ports for daisy-chaining and Mac/Windows connectivity.
Built for Tracking Bands
Eight Unison preamps mean you can mic a full drum kit (kick, snare, two toms, two overheads, hat, ride) and have nothing left over — or track a band live with vocals on every input. Front-panel Hi-Z lets you re-amp or DI guitars and basses directly. Assistive Auto-Gain on API, Neve, and SSL Unison preamps sets levels automatically.
Essentials+ Plug-In Bundle
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 x8p Gen 2 audio interface (1U rackmount)
- External power supply
- Essentials+ UAD plug-in bundle (digital via UA Connect)
- Note: Thunderbolt 3 cable sold separately
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 x8p Gen 2 audio interface (1U rackmount), External power supply, Essentials+ UAD plug-in bundle (digital via UA Connect).
Is the Apollo x8p 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 in Miami, FL. Whether you're outfitting a home studio, a college program, or a worship room, we'll help you spec the right gear and stand behind the sale. Save through our ID.me military discount program — active duty, veterans, reservists, and eligible family.