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Quick answer: The Thunderbolt 3 Option Card is a Universal Audio Apollo audio interface with onboard DSP for realtime UAD plug-in processing while you record. Priced at $299.00, sold brand-new by Victory Musical Instruments, a veteran-owned authorized UA dealer in Miami, FL. Questions? Call 844-687-4208.
Upgrade your rack Apollo to Thunderbolt 3. The Universal Audio Thunderbolt 3 Option Card is a user-installable expansion card that adds Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) connectivity to compatible Apollo rackmount interfaces, enabling Mac and Windows connectivity with the latest Thunderbolt protocol.
At a Glance
| Brand | Universal Audio |
|---|---|
| Model | Thunderbolt 3 Option Card |
| Category | Audio Interface |
| Connection | Thunderbolt 3 |
| Computer compatibility | Mac & Windows |
| Price | $299.00 |
| SKU / MPN | TBOC-3 |
| Condition | New (factory sealed) |
| Warranty | Full Universal Audio manufacturer warranty |
| Sold by | Victory Musical Instruments — veteran-owned authorized UA dealer, Miami FL |
Overview
If you own an older Apollo rackmount interface with a Thunderbolt 2 or expansion slot, the TB3 Option Card brings it up to current connectivity standards. Thunderbolt 3 uses the same USB-C connector as modern Mac and Windows computers, allowing direct connection without dongles or adapters on recent hardware. The card installs in the expansion slot on the rear of compatible Apollo interfaces.
Key Features
- Adds Thunderbolt 3 Connectivity — USB-C connector for direct connection to modern Mac and Windows computers.
- User-Installable — Designed to be installed in the field with basic tools.
- Maintains Daisy-Chain Capability — Two Thunderbolt 3 ports for chaining additional devices.
- Compatible with Apollo Rack Interfaces — Apollo 8, 8p, 16 (firewire/TB2), and Apollo X series rack units.
Compatibility
- Apollo Rack Interfaces — Apollo 8 / 8p / 16 (with TB2 / firewire), Apollo x6 / x8 / x8p / x16 rack units. Verify your specific model in the manual before purchase.
- Not for Desktop Apollos — Apollo Twin and Twin X have fixed connectivity; this card cannot be installed.
- Mac and Windows — Requires a host computer with native Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port (or Thunderbolt 4 via USB-C). USB-C alone (without Thunderbolt) is not supported.
What's in the Box
- Thunderbolt 3 Option Card
- Installation hardware
- Installation instructions
Note: Thunderbolt 3 cable is sold separately. Contact us before purchase if you're unsure whether your specific Apollo model accepts this option card.
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's included in the box?
Your purchase includes: Thunderbolt 3 Option Card, Installation hardware, Installation instructions.
Is the Thunderbolt 3 Option Card 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 UA dealer based in Miami, FL. We back every sale 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 save through our ID.me military discount program.