Universal Audio Apollo Twin USB Duo Heritage

The Universal Audio Apollo Twin USB Duo is a high‑quality 2‑in/6‑out desktop audio interface that, unlike most Apollo units, doesn't run on Thunderbolt – instead, it uses USB 3.0 Type B, and works only with a Windows machine. As the USB version of the classic mobile Apollo interface, it comes loaded with two Unison preamps and two SHARC processors for running those much‑loved UAD plug‑ins. The Realtime Analog Classics Bundle included here gives producers an excellent jumping-off point into the world of DSP‑powered music production. When it comes to the internal AD/DA converters, the Apollo Twin USB packs the outstanding 24‑bit/192kHz tech the manufacturer is so well known for.

With Universal Audio's Unison technology, the UAD plug-in software integrates seamlessly with the Apollo Twin USB Duo's internal microphone preamp hardware, delivering impressively realistic emulations of legendary vintage preamps, guitar and bass amps, and stompboxes. Purchasing the interface automatically gives owners access to the Realtime Analog Classics Bundle, featuring the UA 610-B preamp, the Marshall Plexi Classic amplifier, the Ampeg SVT-VR Classic bass amp, and a selection of other iconic vintage processors, from the Pultec EQP-1A to the Teletronix LA-2A. While they're recording, musicians can use these plug-ins virtually latency-free through the UA Console software; the plug-ins are equally suited for mixing in DAW software such as Cubase, Ableton Live, or Pro Tools, providing both versatility and professional-quality sound at every stage of the production process.

With its compact design, two Unison preamps, a digital ADAT input, four analogue line outputs, and a powerful, high-quality headphone amplifier, the Universal Audio Apollo Twin USB Duo serves as an ideal travel companion for musicians and producers who work with Windows and depend on a USB interface. Of course, this model still delivers top-level performance, although unlike the Thunderbolt versions (Twin X and Twin MkII), it's not capable of cascading with other Apollo interfaces. It offers two first-class Unison preamps, reference-grade converters, and robust connectivity in a portable format, making it suitable for both recording and mixing on the go.

A key factor in the sound of a microphone preamp or guitar amplifier is its input impedance, and Universal Audio's Unison technology ensures this is perfectly matched to an Apollo interface for the most authentic emulation possible via a simultaneously operating plug-in. Hardware and software work together to faithfully reproduce the character of vintage icons such as a Neve 1073 preamp or a modern Manley Voxbox. When using a virtual guitar amplifier like the Marshall Plexi, the system goes even further, recognising the impedance of the connected guitar's pickups and adapting accordingly. This results in a highly realistic and responsive playing experience.