Universal Audio's UAD Apollo series has been a staple in the music production industry for years, offering high-quality audio processing, versatile connectivity, and low-latency performance. However, with the constant advancements in technology and the emergence of new competitors, there are now several alternatives to the UAD Apollo series that offer similar or even better functionality.

This article will explore the top 10 best Universal Audio UAD Apollo alternatives and competitors in 2024.

1. PreSonus Studio 192

The PreSonus Studio 192 is a powerful audio interface that offers high-quality audio conversion, low-latency monitoring, and versatile connectivity options. It features eight Class A XMAX mic preamps, two headphone outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the Studio 192 includes Studio One Artist DAW software and an integrated monitor mixer. With its robust feature set and affordable price point, the PreSonus Studio 192 is a strong alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

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2. Antelope Audio Zen Tour

The Antelope Audio Zen Tour is a compact and portable audio interface that offers high-quality audio processing and versatile connectivity. It features four mic/line inputs with switchable mic preamps, four line outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the Zen Tour includes FPGA-based effects processing and clocking technology, as well as Thunderbolt and USB connectivity. With its impressive feature set and portability, the Antelope Audio Zen Tour is a compelling alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

3. Focusrite Red 8Pre

The Focusrite Red 8Pre is a high-end audio interface that offers exceptional audio conversion and low-latency performance. It features eight Red Evolution mic preamps, two instrument inputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the Red 8Pre includes Focusrite's advanced Thunderbolt 3 connectivity and Dante network audio compatibility. With its premium feature set and high-quality audio processing, the Focusrite Red 8Pre is a top competitor to the UAD Apollo series.

4. MOTU UltraLite-mk5

The MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is a compact and versatile audio interface that offers high-quality audio processing and low-latency performance. It features eight mic/line inputs, eight line outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the UltraLite-mk5 includes enhanced DSP processing, a built-in mixer, and support for Thunderbolt and USB connectivity. With its affordable price point and impressive feature set, the MOTU UltraLite-mk5 is a strong alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

5. RME Fireface UCX II

The RME Fireface UCX II is a high-end audio interface that offers exceptional audio conversion, low-latency performance, and versatile connectivity options. It features eight analog inputs and outputs, two mic preamps, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the Fireface UCX II includes RME's advanced TotalMix FX software, as well as support for Thunderbolt and USB connectivity. With its premium feature set and reliable performance, the RME Fireface UCX II is a top competitor to the UAD Apollo series.

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6. SSL 2+

The SSL 2+ is a compact and affordable audio interface that offers high-quality audio conversion and versatile connectivity options. It features two SSL-designed mic preamps, four line inputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the SSL 2+ includes SSL's Legacy 4K mode for adding analog-style warmth and character to recordings. With its attractive price point and impressive feature set, the SSL 2+ is a strong alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

7. Audient iD44

The Audient iD44 is a high-end audio interface that offers exceptional audio processing and versatile connectivity options. It features four Class A mic preamps, two headphone outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the iD44 includes Audient's advanced ScrollControl technology and support for Thunderbolt and USB connectivity. With its premium feature set and reliable performance, the Audient iD44 is a top competitor to the UAD Apollo series.

8. Behringer UMC1820

The Behringer UMC1820 is an affordable and versatile audio interface that offers high-quality audio processing and low-latency performance. It features eight mic/line inputs, eight line outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the UMC1820 includes support for MIDAS-designed mic preamps and USB connectivity. With its affordable price point and impressive feature set, the Behringer UMC1820 is a strong alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

9. Steinberg UR824

The Steinberg UR824 is a high-end audio interface that offers exceptional audio conversion, low-latency performance, and versatile connectivity options. It features eight Class-A D-PRE mic preamps, two headphone outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the UR824 includes Steinberg's advanced dspMixFx software and support for Thunderbolt and USB connectivity. With its premium feature set and reliable performance, the Steinberg UR824 is a top competitor to the UAD Apollo series.

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10. Tascam US-20x20

The Tascam US-20x20 is a versatile audio interface that offers high-quality audio processing and low-latency performance. It features eight XLR/TRS inputs, two headphone outputs, and ADAT and S/PDIF digital I/O. Additionally, the US-20x20 includes Tascam's advanced Ultra-HDDA mic preamps and support for USB 3.0 connectivity. With its affordable price point and impressive feature set, the Tascam US-20x20 is a strong alternative to the UAD Apollo series.

In conclusion, while the Universal Audio UAD Apollo series has been a popular choice for music producers and recording engineers, there are now several alternatives available in 2024 that offer similar or even better functionality. Whether you prioritize high-quality audio processing, low-latency performance, versatile connectivity, or affordability, there is an audio interface on this list that will suit your needs. By evaluating your specific requirements and considering factors such as feature set, ease of use, and platform compatibility, you can find the best alternative that suits your audio production requirements.