Universal audio Apollo X6 Gen 2 Essentials+

The Apollo X6 Essentials+ is a sound card from Universal Audio.

UA's new generation of Apollo x6 interfaces has arrived, for artistic directors and small professional studios needing digital audio converters offering the highest possible resolution, two Unison™ mic preamps and the HEX A Core DSP processor to compose and produce music with UAD's famous plug-ins, including Auto-Tune, emulations of Neve, Manley, Avalon, SSL equipment and hundreds of other treatments.

The world's top artistic directors and sound engineers choose the Apollo x6 when they need the exceptional sound and DSP power of the Apollo X, but not the other physical channels of the larger models. Now we're giving you the chance to evolve your production environment with UA's timeless sound and legendary know-how.

Apollo X6 Essentials+ highlights

• Work with state-of-the-art audio converters: never before has the Apollo benefited from such a wide dynamic range and low distortion.


• Enjoy analog sound as if you were in a professional studio with the Unison™ preamps. They let you record in real time through faithful emulations of equipment by Neve, API, Avalon, Manley, Fender and more.


• Access over 200 UAD DSP and native plug-ins, including the famous Capitol Chambers, Sound City Studios, EL8 Distressor and more.


• Mix with confidence on any loudspeaker or headphones, thanks to Apollo Monitor Correction powered by Sonarworks® technology.


• Use the automatic gain function to adjust the gain of multiple inputs in seconds. You'll never lose a take again.


• Listen to the bottom end of your mixes in the finest detail using the Bass Manager when you add a subwoofer to your monitoring system.


• Set up low-latency headphone networks, plug-in scenes and immersive monitoring in just a few clicks with the UAD Console application.


• Choose between the Essentials+ and Studio+ editions and receive thousands of dollars worth of UAD plug-ins, including Auto-Tune, Fairchild processors, Teletronix and more.

Apollo X6 Essentials+ Key Features

The new centerpiece of your rack

Universal Audio has designed the Apollo x6 for artistic producers who need the highest quality sound, without the extra analog preamps usually found on larger rack-mount models. With its exceptional dynamic range, state-of-the-art 24-bit/192 kHz digital audio converters and even more advanced D/A monitoring functions, the Apollo x6 brings the sound of the stars right into your rack.

All the inputs you need

With its two Unison™ preamps and high-impedance front-panel instrument inputs, the Apollo x6 lets you record in real time while enjoying the sound of dozens of classic rigs, including those by Neve, Manley, API, Fender and Marshall. Thanks to its six additional line inputs, you'll have no trouble plugging in synths, keyboards and all the rest of your gear.

A new level of detail

The second-generation Apollo x6 features D/A converters with the highest resolution UA has ever offered. They are combined with the Apollo Monitor Correction function, powered by Sonarworks® technology. This will give you the most accurate representation of your recordings on your speakers or in your headphones, with no unpleasant surprises when listening to your final mix or master.

UAD Console, the application that adapts to your needs

Like an analog studio, where everything goes through the console, the Apollo x6 features a powerful digital mixing engine that lets you control plug-in routing and monitoring. Thanks to new features such as automatic gain control, bass management, 5.1 surround sound support and plug-in scenes, you'll have no trouble creating an optimal working environment.

A hybrid system for all your projects

Combine the Apollo x6's HEXA Core DSP with plug-ins running on your host computer to work on large-scale sessions with complex processing chains. It's a powerful hybrid environment that outperforms any native recording setup.

Your studio grows with you

Adapt your studio to your needs by daisy-chaining up to four Apollo Thunderbolt interfaces. You'll have up to 128 inputs and outputs to work with in your STAN, and you can control them from your desk using an Apollo Twin or x4. No matter where your music takes you, you'll always have an Apollo close at hand.

Expert opinion

• The Apollo X6 is a must for those looking to record in real time without latency. Performance is smooth, and the integrated effects are of the highest quality.


• Sound quality is incredible, with preamps that bring recordings to life. AD/DA converters are exceptionally clear, allowing every nuance of work to shine through.