Universal Audio Apollo Twin Manual

Introduction

We know that any new piece of gear requires an investment of time and money — and our goal is to make your investment pay off. The fact that we get to play a part in your creative process is what makes our efforts meaningful, and we thank you for this.
In many ways, the Apollo family of audio interface products represent the best examples of what Universal Audio has stood for over its long history; from UA's original founding in the 1950s by my father, through our current vision of delivering the best of both analog and digital audio technologies.
Starting with its high-quality analog I/O, Apollo Twin's superior sonic performance serves as its foundation. This is just the beginning however, as Apollo Twin is the only desktop audio interface that allows you to run UAD plug-ins in real time. Want to monitor yourself through a Neve® console channel strip while tracking bass through a classic Fairchild or LA-2A compressor? Or how about tracking vocals through a Studer® tape machine with some added Lexicon® reverb?* With our growing library of more than 90 UAD plug-ins, the choices are limitless.
At UA, we are dedicated to the idea that this powerful technology should ultimately serve the creative process — not be a barrier. These are the very ideals my father embodied as he invented audio equipment to solve problems in the studio. So as you begin to incorporate Apollo Twin into your creative process, we hope that the excitement and pride that we've built into it comes through. We believe Apollo Twin will earn its way into your creative workflow by providing stunning fidelity, great ease-of-use, and rock-solid reliability for years to come.
As always, please feel free to reach out to us via our website www.uaudio.com, and via our social media channels. We look forward to hearing from you, and thank you once again for choosing Universal Audio.

Welcome to Apollo!

High-Resolution Desktop Music Production with Classic Analog Sound
With its class-leading resolution and Realtime UAD Processing, Apollo Twin sets a new standard for desktop music production. This 2x6 Thunderbolt interface allows you to record with near-zero latency through the full range of UAD Powered Plug-Ins — ingeniously merging classic analog tones with cutting-edge features.

Record and Mix with Stunning 24-bit/192 kHz Sound Quality
With the highest dynamic range and lowest noise of any desktop interface, Apollo Twin gives you stellar 24-bit/192 kHz sound and breathtaking clarity.
Its premium mic preamps, input stage, and audio conversion translate into rich three-dimensional recordings with exceptional depth and punch. Digitally controlled analog monitor outputs provide full resolution audio at all listening levels — letting you create better mixes in real-world environments.

A Complete Analog Studio with Realtime UAD Plug-In Processing
Imagine having access to a classic analog recording studio, right on your desktop. Apollo Twin lets you record and mix through the full range of UAD Powered Plug-Ins — including vintage EQs, compressors, reverbs, tape machines and more — at near-zero latency, regardless of your audio software buffer size.
The key to its analog magic is onboard UAD-2 SOLO or DUO DSP Processing, which powers the UAD plug-ins while reducing the strain on your host CPU. To get you started, Apollo Twin includes the "Realtime Analog Classics" plug-in bundle.

Track Through Classic Preamps Using Unison™ Technology
Unison technology allows Apollo Twin's mic preamps and front-panel DI to sound and behave like the world's most sought-after tube and solid state preamps, guitar amps, and stompboxes — including their all-important impedance, gain stage "sweet spots," and circuit behaviors. Based on breakthrough integration between Apollo's analog inputs and its onboard UAD processing, Unison lets you track through a range of colorful emulations from Neve, API, and Marshall for amazing tones.

High-speed Thunderbolt Connection to your Computer
Apollo Twin's Thunderbolt connection features ultra-fast PCIe audio drivers for highbandwidth, low-latency performance on Thunderbolt-equipped computers. Because Thunderbolt offers 12x the bandwidth of FireWire 800, you can connect numerous devices in line with Apollo Twin — including hard drives and HDMI/USB3 hubs — all with fast, flawless performance.

Professional I/O Connections
Apollo Twin is a 2-in/6-out interface with two class-leading mic/line preamps, two analog line outputs, two digitally controlled analog monitor outputs, and up to eight additional channels of digital inputs via Optical connection. Its conveniently located Hi-Z instrument input and headphone jack allow you to capture inspiration the moment it strikes.

A Sleek New App
Console 2.0 is Apollo Twin's software control interface. Its intuitive, analog console-style design provides realtime tracking and monitoring with UAD Powered Plug-Ins, Channel Strip presets, Drag & Drop functionality, dynamically resizable windows, and more.

Easy to Use with Any DAW
Apollo Twin is compatible with all major DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic, Cubase, Live, and more — allowing seamless integration no matter what recording software you use.

Apollo Twin Features
Key Features

• World-class 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion
• Realtime UAD Processing — track through vintage Compressors, EQs, Tape Machines, and Guitar Amp plug-ins with near-zero latency
• 2 premium mic/line preamps; 2 line outs; front-panel Hi-Z instrument input and headphone output
• Unison™ technology for stunning models of classic mic preamps
• Available with either UAD-2 SOLO or UAD-2 DUO DSP Processing onboard
• Thunderbolt connection for blazing-fast PCIe speed on modern computers
• Uncompromising analog design, superior components, and premium build quality throughout
• Digitally controlled analog monitor outputs for full resolution at all listening levels
• Cascade up to four Thunderbolt-equipped Apollos and six total UAD-2 devices — adding I/O and DSP as needed
• Includes "Realtime Analog Classics" UAD plug-in bundle

All Features
Audio Interface

• Sample rates up to 192 kHz* at 24-bit word length
• Up to 10 x 6 simultaneous input/output channels
• Two channels of analog-to-digital conversion via:
• Two balanced mic/line inputs
• One Hi-Z instrument input
• Six channels of digital-to-analog conversion via:
• Digitally-controlled stereo monitor outputs
• Stereo headphone outputs
• Line outputs 3-4
• Up to eight channels of digital inputs via:
• Eight channels ADAT optical with S/MUX for high sample rates, or
• Two channels S/PDIF optical with sample rate conversion

Microphone Preamplifiers

• Two high-resolution, ultra-transparent, digitally-controlled analog mic preamps
• Front panel and software control of all preamp parameters
• Low cut filter, 48V phantom power, 20 dB pad, polarity inversion, and stereo linking

*96 kHz maximum on S/PDIF digital inputs

Monitoring

• Digitally-controlled analog monitor outputs maintains highest fidelity
• Independently-addressable stereo headphone outputs
• Independently-addressable line outputs 3-4 can be used for additional cue mix
• Front panel control of monitor levels and muting

UAD-2 Inside

• One (SOLO) or two (DUO) SHARC DSP processors
• Realtime UAD Processing on all analog and digital inputs
• Same features and functionality as other UAD-2 devices when used with DAW
• Includes UAD Powered Plug-Ins "Realtime Analog Classics" bundle
• Complete UAD Powered Plug-Ins library is available online

Software
Console application:

• Enables tracking and/or monitoring with Realtime UAD Processing
• Remote control of Apollo Twin features and functionality
• Virtual I/O for routing DAW tracks through Console
• Two independent stereo Auxiliary busses

Console Recall plug-in:

• Saves Apollo Twin configurations inside DAW sessions for easy recall
• Facilitates control of Apollo Twin monitoring features from within the DAW
• VST, RTAS, AAX 64, and Audio Units plug-in formats

UAD Meter & Control Panel application:

• Configures global UAD settings and monitors system usage

Other

• Attractive and durable desktop form factor
• Locking power supply prevents accidental disconnection
• Easy firmware updates
• One year warranty includes parts and labor

Package Contents

• Apollo Twin unit
• Power supply with (4) AC connectors (Changeable AC connectors for USA, Europe, UK, Australia, and China)
• Getting Started URL card

Operational Overview
Audio Interface
First and foremost, Apollo Twin is a premium 2x6 Thunderbolt audio interface with world-class 24-bit/192 kHz audio conversion. Apollo Twin connects to the outputs and inputs of other audio gear, and performs analog-to-digital (A/D) and digital-to-analog (D/A) audio conversions on the gear's signals. The digital audio signals are routed into and out of the host computer via the high-speed PCIe protocol, which is carried on a single Thunderbolt cable.
Apollo Twin leverages Universal Audio's expertise in DSP acceleration, UAD Powered Plug-Ins, and analog hardware design by integrating the latest cutting edge technologies in high-performance A/D-D/A conversion, DSP signal reconstruction, and host connectivity. Apollo Twin acts as both an audio interface with integrated DSP effects for tracking and monitoring as well as a fully integrated UAD-2 DSP accelerator for mixing and mastering.

About Realtime UAD Processing
Apollo Twin has the ability to run UAD Powered Plug-Ins in realtime. Apollo Twin's groundbreaking DSP + FPGA technology enable UAD plug-ins to run with latencies in the sub-2ms range, and multiple plug-ins can be stacked in series without additional latency.
Realtime UAD Processing facilitates the ultimate sonic experience while monitoring and/ or tracking.
Note: Apollo Twin, like other UAD-2 devices, can only load UAD Powered Plug-Ins, which are specifically designed to run on UAD-2 DSP accelerators. Native (hostbased) plug-ins cannot run on the UAD-2 DSP.

Console Software
The Console software application runs on the host computer and is used to control Apollo
Twin mixing and monitoring with Realtime UAD Processing, access the audio interface I/O settings, and more. Console's analog-style workflow is designed to provide quick access to the most commonly needed features in a familiar, easy-to-use mixer interface.
Realtime UAD Processing is a special function that is available only within Console. All of Apollo Twin's analog and digital inputs can perform Realtime UAD processing simultaneously, and Console inputs with (or without) Realtime UAD Processing can be routed into the DAW for recording.
Console controls Apollo Twin's digital mixer so you can monitor Apollo Twin's inputs (with or without Realtime UAD Processing) without using any other audio software such as a DAW.
Console is integral to unleashing the power of Apollo Twin. For complete details about how to use Console and Realtime UAD Processing, refer to the Apollo Software Manual.

UAD Powered Plug-Ins in a DAW
Apollo Twin and UAD plug-ins can also be used within a DAW without the use of Console. UAD plug-ins loaded within the DAW operate like other (non-UAD) plug-ins, except the processing occurs on the Apollo Twin DSP instead of the host computer's processor. In this scenario, UAD plug-ins are subject to the latencies incurred by I/O buffering.
For details about using UAD Powered Plug-Ins in a DAW, see the UAD System Manual.

Standalone Use
Although the Console application is required to utilize all Apollo Twin features, the hardware unit can be used as a digital mixer with limited functionality without a Thunderbolt connection to a host computer.
All currently active I/O assignments, signal routings, and monitor settings are saved to internal firmware when Apollo Twin is powered down and persist when power is reapplied. Therefore the last-used settings are always available even when a host computer is not connected.
Note that UAD plug-in instantiations are not retained on power down, because the plugin files reside on the host computer. However, if UAD plug-ins are active when Apollo Twin's connection to the host system is lost (if the Thunderbolt cable is unplugged), the current UAD plug-in configurations remain active for processing until Apollo Twin is powered down.
Note: Standalone use is unavailable when cascading multiple Apollo units.

About Apollo Twin Documentation
Documentation for Apollo Twin and UAD Powered Plug-Ins are separated by areas of functionality, as described below. The user manuals are placed on the system drive during software installation, and they can be downloaded at www.uaudio.com.

Apollo Manual Files
Note: All manual files are in PDF format. PDF files require a free PDF reader application such as Preview (included with Mac OS X) or Adobe Reader.

Apollo Hardware Manuals
Each Apollo model has a unique hardware manual. The Apollo hardware manuals contain complete hardware-related details about one specific Apollo model. Included are detailed descriptions of all hardware features, controls, connectors, and specifications.
Note: Each hardware manual contains the unique Apollo model in the file name.

Apollo Software Manual
The Apollo Software Manual is the companion guide to the Apollo hardware manuals. It contains detailed information about how to configure and control all Apollo software features using the Console application, Console Settings window, and Console Recall plug-in. Refer to the Apollo Software Manual to learn how to operate the software tools and integrate Apollo's functionality into the DAW environment.
Note: Each Apollo connection protocol (Thunderbolt, FireWire, USB) has a unique software manual.

UAD System Manual
The UAD System Manual is the complete operation manual for Apollo's UAD-2 functionality and applies to the entire UAD-2 product family. It contains detailed information about installing and configuring UAD devices, the UAD Meter & Control Panel application, buying optional plug-ins at the UA online store, and more. It includes everything about UAD except Apollo-specific information and individual UAD plug-in descriptions.

UAD Plug-Ins Manual
The features and functionality of all individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins is detailed in the UAD Plug-Ins Manual. Refer to this document to learn about the operation, controls, and user interface of each UAD plug-in that is developed by Universal Audio.

Direct Developer Plug-In Manuals
UAD Powered Plug-Ins includes plug-in titles created by our Direct Developer partners. Documentation for these 3rd-party plug-ins are separate files written and provided by the plug-in developers. The file names for these plug-in manuals are the same as the plug-in titles.

Accessing Installed Documentation
Any of these methods can be used to access installed documentation:

• Choose Documentation from the Help menu within the Console application
• Click the Product Manuals button in the Help panel within the UAD Meter & Control Panel application
• Manuals are also available online at help.uaudio.com

Host DAW Documentation
Each host DAW software application has its own particular methods for configuring and using audio interfaces and plug-ins. Refer to the host DAW's documentation for specific instructions about using audio interface and plug-in features within the DAW.
Additional Resources
For additional resources, or if you need to contact Universal Audio for assistance, see the Technical Support page.

Quick Start

Quick Start Overview
Apollo Twin hardware and software installation and setup consists of the main steps below, which are detailed in this chapter:

1. Hardware Setup: Connect and power the Apollo Twin hardware
2. Software Setup: Download and install the Apollo Twin software
3. Connect to Input Sources and Monitor System
4. Setting Hardware I/O Levels: Learn how to adjust input and output levels

Hardware Setup
Select a Suitable Location

• Locate Apollo Twin on a flat surface so its feet will maintain airflow beneath the unit.
• The location should be sturdy enough to securely hold its weight and withstand the pressure of operating the top panel controls.
• Leave enough room behind the unit for connected cabling.
• Do not block the cooling vents on the bottom or sides of the unit.

Connect to Computer and Power

Before powering Apollo Twin on or off, lower the volume of the monitor speakers (if connected) and remove headphones from your ears.

1. Connect one Thunderbolt cable (not included) between Apollo Twin and the host computer.
2. Connect the included power supply to an AC outlet (Apollo Twin cannot be bus powered).
3. Connect the locking power supply to the rear panel of Apollo. Align the two tabs on the power cable's connector to the notches on the input, then rotate the barrel to prevent accidental disconnection.
   
   After ensuring the locking barrel tabs are aligned with the chassis slots and the barrel is fully inserted, rotate the barrel to secure the connector.
   
4. Apply power to Apollo Twin using the rear panel's power switch.
   Apollo Twin is now ready for Software Setup.

Software Setup
Note: Items on this page are detailed in the Apollo Software Manual. See About Apollo Twin Documentation for related information.

System Requirements
All system requirements must be met for Apollo Twin to operate properly. Before proceeding with installation, see the system requirements in the Apollo Software Manual.

Software Installation
The software must be installed to use the hardware and UAD plug-ins. The UAD Powered Plug-Ins software installer contains the Apollo Twin software and drivers.

For optimum results, connect and power on Apollo Twin before installing the software.
To obtain the latest UAD Powered Plug-Ins software installer, visit:

• www.uaudio.com/downloads

Registration and Authorization
Apollo Twin must be registered and authorized to unlock UAD plug-ins that are bundled with the product. Registration and authorization via a web browser is triggered automatically by the UAD software the first time the device is recognized.

System Configuration
Complete details about setting up the Apollo Twin system, including how to integrate with a DAW and related information, are included in the Apollo Software Manual.

Console Application
The included Console application is the software interface for the Apollo Twin hardware.
Console controls Apollo Twin and its digital mixing, monitoring, and Realtime UAD Processing features. Console is also used to configure Apollo Twin's I/O settings such as sample rate, clock source, and reference levels.
For complete details about how to operate Console, refer to the Apollo Software Manual.

Apollo Expanded
When more I/O and/or DSP is needed, up to four Apollo interfaces can be cascaded together via Thunderbolt in a multiple-unit configuration. For complete details about multi-unit cascading, refer to the Apollo Thunderbolt Software Manual.

UA Support Videos
Many informational videos are available online to help you get started with Apollo Twin:

• help.uaudio.com

Connect to Input Sources and Monitor System
One typical Apollo Twin setup is illustrated below. For complete details about all of Apollo Twin's connectors and controls, see Controls & Connectors.

Setting Hardware I/O Levels
This section explains how to set input gain levels for the hardware inputs (mic, line, and Hi-Z) and adjust volume levels for the hardware outputs (monitors and headphones).
Refer to the top panel illustration for control names and numbers mentioned below.

Before proceeding, lower the volume of the monitor speakers and remove headphones from your ears.

Set Input Gains

1. Select the input channel to be adjusted by pressing the Preamp button (9) until the Channel Selection Indicator (3) displays the channel (CH1 or CH2).
2. Select the input type (mic or line) by pressing the Input Select button (11a) until the Input Type indicator (5) displays the desired input jack* (see note below).
3. Adjust the channel's gain by increasing the Level knob (1) until the input meter for the channel (4) approaches maximum, but does not reach the red clip LED when the input signal is present. If the level is too high to avoid clipping (when the red "C" LED illuminates), enable the pad (11).
4. To set the input gain for the other input channel, repeat steps 1 – 3.

Adjust Output Volumes

1. Select the output volume to be adjusted (monitor or headphone) by pressing the Monitor button (10) until the Monitor Selected (6) or Headphone Selected (8) indicator is lit.
2. Set the volume level by carefully increasing the Level knob until the desired volume is reached (you may need to adjust the volume of the speakers).
3. To set the other output volume (monitor or headphone), repeat steps 1 – 2.

Mute (and Unmute) Monitor Outputs

1. Select the Monitor outputs by pressing the Monitor button (10) until the Monitor Selected (6) indicator is lit.
2. Press the Level knob (1) to mute the monitor outputs. The Volume Level Indicator LEDs (2) are red when the monitors are muted and Monitor is selected (6).
3. To toggle the monitor mute state, press the Level knob (1) whenever Monitor (6) is selected.

Notes:

• *Hi-Z input is automatically selected, overriding the channel 1 Mic and Line inputs, when a ¼" mono TS (tip-sleeve) plug is connected to the Hi-Z Instrument jack (12) on the front panel.
• To control both channels simultaneously when a stereo source is connected, press the Link button (11) when an input is selected (9).
• Line outputs 3 & 4 are accessed and controlled via software only (Console or DAW).

What Next?
Refer to the Apollo Software Manual to learn how to configure the audio interface settings, use the Console application and Realtime UAD Processing, and more.

Controls & Connectors

Complete details about the Apollo Twin hardware controls and all connector jacks on the front and rear panels are provided in this chapter.
Note: To learn how to set input gain levels (mic, line, and Hi-Z) and output volumes (monitors and headphones), see Setting Hardware I/O Levels in the Quick Start chapter.

Controls Overview
Some Apollo Twin controls have multiple functions. The function of each control depends on the current operating mode and the current settings within that mode. To control a particular setting, the control must be activated for the function.

Operating Modes
Apollo Twin's top panel has two operating modes: Preamp and Monitor. The function and availability of the top panel controls vary depending on the active operating mode. The active mode is selected with the PREAMP and MONITOR buttons. Press the button to activate the mode. Each mode is explained in greater detail below.
Note: All top panel functions can be operated concurrently (without switching modes) from within the companion Console software application. See the Apollo Software Manual for details.

PREAMP Mode

When Apollo Twin is in Preamp mode, all top panel controls are related to the input functions only. To adjust any input function, press the PREAMP button to enter Preamp mode and activate the input channel controls.
Note: Monitor and headphone functions cannot be performed in Preamp mode.

Preamp Channels
Apollo Twin has two analog input channels and one set of input channel controls. The channel controls adjust all channel functions for the currently selected channel. After switching the selected channel, the other channel can be adjusted.

Channel Selection

The currently selected channel is shown by the CH1 and CH2 indicators at the upper left of the main display panel, above the input meters. The top panel controls only adjust the functions for the currently selected channel.
When in Preamp mode, press the PREAMP button or the LEVEL knob to change the selected channel. Press again to switch back to the other channel.

Input Type

Each input channel has one preamplifier. The input source used by the preamp can be the mic input or the line input. The input source is determined by the pressing the INPUT button when the channel is selected. The input type is shown by the indicators below the input meters.
On channel 1 only, the Hi-Z instrument can be used as the input type. The Hi-Z input is selected automatically when an instrument cable is plugged into the front panel Hi-Z input.

Preamp Options

The two input channels each have a set of various preamp options that can be activated for the input with the row of six buttons at the bottom of the top panel.
The current state of the preamp options are indicated in the display panel above the preamp option buttons. Available options are dim when inactive and bright when enabled.
Not all preamp options are available with all input types. For specific details, see the Top Panel Controls section later in this chapter.

MONITOR Mode

When Apollo Twin is in Monitor mode, all top panel controls are related to output functions only. To adjust any output function, press the MONITOR button to enter Monitor mode and activate the monitor controls.
Note: Input functions cannot be performed in Monitor mode.

Apollo Twin must be in Monitor mode to change the volume of the monitor or headphone outputs.

Output Types
Apollo Twin has two main* stereo output types: Monitor and Headphone. The Level knob is used to set the volume level for both output types. The Level knob adjusts the volume for the currently selected output. After switching the selected output, the other output volume can be adjusted.
Note: *Line outputs 3 and 4 are controlled with software only.

Monitor Selection

The currently selected output type is shown by the MONITOR and HEADPHONE indicators at the right of the main display, above and below the output meters. The Level knob adjusts volume for the currently selected output.
When in Monitor mode, press the MONITOR button to change the selected output. Press again to switch to the other output.

Monitor Mute
When MONITOR is selected, press the Level knob to mute (silence) the stereo monitor outputs. The green Level indicators (the ring of LEDs around the knob) are RED when the monitor outputs are muted. Press again to unmute the monitor outputs.

Top Panel
Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section.

1. Level Knob & Switch
   The Level knob & switch controls multiple functions. The knob's current function is selected with the Preamp (9) and Monitor (10) buttons.
   Rotate clockwise to increase level of the selected function. When Monitor is selected (6), press to mute/unmute the monitor outputs. When Preamp is selected (3), press to alternate between channels 1 & 2.
   Unison Integration: The Level knob can also be used to control Unison-enabled UAD preamp plug-ins. See the Apollo Software Manual for complete Unison details.
2. Preamp Gain & Volume Level Indicator LEDs
   The LEDs around the Level knob indicate the relative level of the selected function (input preamp gain or monitor/headphone volume).
   Note: The indicator LEDs are red when Monitor (10) is selected and the monitor outputs are muted.
3. Channel Selection Indicators
   The currently selected input channel is indicated by the lit channel name above its input meter (CH1 or CH2). Press the Preamp button (9) to switch between channels 1 & 2. Tip: You can also switch between channels 1 & 2 by pressing the Level knob (1), but only when in Preamp Mode (when the input controls are active).
4. Input Meters
   These meters display the incoming signal level for input channels 1 & 2. Reduce the channel's preamp gain (see Setting Levels) if its red clip LED illuminates.
5. Input Type Indicators
   These indicators show which input type (mic, line, or Hi-Z) is active for the selected channel. Use the Input Select button (11a) to change the input type.
   Note: Hi-Z input is available for channel 1 only.
6. Monitor Selected Indicator
   When lit, the Level knob (1) controls volume and muting of the monitor outputs (15). Press the Monitor button (10) to activate the monitor controls.
7. Stereo Output Meters
   These meters display the main stereo signal output levels.* Main output levels are independent of monitor and headphone volume levels. Reduce levels feeding the output(s) if a red "C" (clip) LED at the top of the Output Meters illuminates.
   *Exception: If HEADPHONES is currently selected on Apollo Twin and the Headphone Source in Console is set to HP, these output meters indicate the level being sent to the headphone bus via Console's headphone sends and/or the DAW.
8. Headphone Selected Indicator
   When lit, the Level knob (1) controls the volume of the headphones output (13). Press the Monitor button (9) to activate the headphones controls (you may need to push it twice).
9. Preamp Button
   Press PREAMP to activate the input channel controls. Press again to alternate between channels 1 & 2.
   Tip: You can also switch between channels 1 & 2 by pressing the Level knob (1), but only when in Preamp Mode (when the input controls are active).
10. Monitor Button
    Press MONITOR to activate the control of volume levels with the Level knob (1). Press again to alternate between control of the monitor and headphone volumes.
    Tip: Indicators (6) and (8) determine which volume (monitor or headphone) is being controlled with the Level knob (1).
11. Preamp Option Buttons
    These six buttons control the preamp options (a – f below) when the input channel is selected (3). The preamp option is active when its indicator is lit. When Monitor (6) or Headphone (8) is selected, the preamp options cannot be modified and this portion of the display is unlit.
    Unison Integration: The Preamp Options can also be used to control Unisonenabled UAD preamp plug-ins. See the Apollo Software Manual for complete Unison details.

Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section.

1. Input Select
   Selects the active input jack for the channel. Press to alternate between the mic & line inputs. The current selection is displayed by the input type indicators (5).
   The Hi-Z input is selected automatically whenever a ¼" mono (tip-sleeve) plug is connected to the front panel's Hi-Z Instrument jack (12).
   Note: Hi-Z input is available for channel 1 only.
2. Low Cut Filter
   Enables a low cut (high pass) rumble filter with a cutoff frequency of 75 Hz.
3. +48V
   Enables 48-volt phantom power for the mic input. Phantom power is typically needed for condenser microphones. +48 is available for the microphone inputs only.
   
   To avoid potential equipment damage, disable +48V phantom power on the channel before connecting or disconnecting its XLR input.
4. Pad
   Attenuates (lowers) the input signal level by 20 dB. Pad is unavailable for the line inputs and the Hi-Z instrument input.
5. Polarity Ø
   Inverts the polarity (aka "phase") of the input signal.
6. Link
   Links inputs 1 & 2 so both channels are adjusted simultaneously as a stereo pair.
   Note: Link cannot be activated when a plug is inserted in the Hi-Z jack (12).

Front Panel
Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section.

12. Hi-Z Instrument Input
    Connect any guitar, bass, or other high impedance instrument here. This jack automatically overrides the channel 1 mic and line inputs.
    Levels for the Hi-Z input are set using the same method as the mic and line inputs.
    Note: This jack accepts a ¼" mono (tip-sleeve) plug only.
13. Headphone Output
    Connect ¼" stereo headphones here. Volume is set with the Level knob (1) when Headphone (8) is selected with the Monitor button (10).

Side Panel
Kensington Security Slot (not shown)
The anti-theft security slot on the side panel connects to any standard Kensington lock.

Rear Panel
Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section.
Note: All rear panel ¼" jacks can accept unbalanced TS (tip-sleeve) or balanced TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) connections.

14. Mic/Line Inputs 1 & 2
    The jacks for channels 1 & 2 accept either a male XLR plug for connecting to the mic input, or a ¼" phone plug for connecting to the line input.
    The input that is used for the channel (mic or line) is specified with the Input Type button (11a).
    
    To avoid potential equipment damage, disable +48V phantom power on the channel before connecting or disconnecting its XLR input.
15. Monitor Outputs
    Connect the powered monitor speakers (or speaker amplifiers) here. Volume is set with the Level knob (1) when Monitor is selected (6) with the Monitor button (10).
16. Line Outputs 3 & 4
    These ¼" phone outputs are accessed via software (Console or DAW). Line outputs 3 & 4 are used to send audio to other equipment.
17. Power Supply Input
    The included power supply must be connected here (Apollo Twin cannot be bus powered). Rotate locking connector to prevent accidental disconnection.
    
    After ensuring the locking barrel tabs are aligned with the chassis slots and the barrel is fully inserted, rotate the barrel to secure the connector to the chassis.
18. Power Switch
    This rocker switch applies power to Apollo Twin. Switch to OFF when not in use.
    
    Before powering Apollo Twin, lower the volume of the monitor speakers and remove headphones from your ears.
19. Optical In
    This is a TOSLINK input for connection to other gear with an optical ADAT or S/PDIF output.
    Note: The connection protocol to be used (ADAT or S/PDIF) is specified within the companion Console software application.
20. Thunderbolt Port
    Connect the Thunderbolt cable (not included) here. A Thunderbolt connection to the host computer is required to use all Apollo Twin features and UAD Powered Plug-Ins.

• Apollo Twin can be connected to a Thunderbolt 1 or Thunderbolt 2 port.
• Apollo Twin can be connected to compatible Thunderbolt 3 equipped computers via a qualified Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt adapter.

Specifications

Specification Tables
All audio specifications are typical performance unless otherwise noted, tested under the following conditions: 48 kHz internal sample rate, 24-bit sample depth, 20 kHz measurement bandwidth, with balanced inputs and outputs.

Hardware Block Diagram

Troubleshooting

If Apollo Twin isn't behaving as expected, some common troubleshooting items to confirm are below. If you are still experiencing issues after performing these checks, contact Technical Support.

Notices

Important Safety Information
Before using this unit, be sure to carefully read the applicable items of these operating instructions and the safety suggestions. Afterwards, keep them handy for future reference. Take special care to follow the warnings indicated on the unit, as well as in the operating instructions.
Water and Moisture – Do not use the unit near any source of water or in excessively moist environments.
Object and Liquid Entry – Care should be taken so that objects do not fall, and liquids are not spilled, into the enclosure through openings.
Ventilation – When installing the unit in a rack or any other location, be sure there is adequate ventilation. Improper ventilation will cause overheating, and can damage the unit.
Heat – The unit should be situated away from heat sources, or other equipment that produces excessive heat.
Power Sources – The unit should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions, or as marked on the unit.
Power Cord Protection – AC power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the unit. Never take hold of the plug or cord if your hand is wet. Always grasp the plug body when connecting or disconnecting it.
Cleaning – Follow these general rules when cleaning the outside of the unit:

1. Turn the power off and unplug the unit
2. Gently wipe with a clean lint-free cloth
3. Do not use aerosol sprays, solvents, or abrasives

Nonuse Periods – The AC power supply cord of the unit should be unplugged from the AC outlet when left unused for a long period of time.
Damage Requiring Service – The unit should be serviced by a qualified service personnel when:

1. The AC power supply unit has been damaged; or
2. Objects have fallen or liquid has been spilled into the unit; or
3. The unit has been exposed to rain; or
4. The unit does not operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or
5. The unit has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.

Servicing – The user should not attempt to service the unit beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel.

Maintenance
Apollo Twin does not contain a fuse or any other user-replaceable parts. The unit is internally calibrated at the factory. No internal user adjustments are available.

Repair Service
If you are having trouble with Apollo Twin, the first check all system setups, connections, software installations, and the Troubleshooting chart. If that doesn't help, contact Technical Support. To learn more about repair service, please visit:

• www.uaudio.com/support/rma-faq.html

Technical Support

Universal Audio Knowledge Base
The UA Knowledge Base is your complete technical resource for configuring, operating, and troubleshooting UA products.
You can watch helpful support videos, search the Knowledge Base for answers, find updated technical information that may not be available in other publications, and more.

• help.uaudio.com

YouTube Support Channel
The Universal Audio Support Channel at youtube.com includes helpful support videos for setting up and using UA products.

• Universal Audio YouTube Support Channel

UAD Community Forums
The unofficial UAD discussion forums are a valuable resource for all Universal Audio product users. This website is independently owned and operated.

• www.uadforum.com

Contact UA Support
Universal Audio provides free technical support to registered product owners. Support specialists are available to answer technical inquiries via email and telephone.

• help.uaudio.com

www.uaudio.com