Comparing the Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad and RME Fireface UFX II

Comparing the Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad and RME Fireface UFX II – For musicians, producers, and engineers alike, choosing the right audio interface is crucial to their workflow and sound quality. Two industry-leading options, the Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad and RME Fireface UFX II (802 FS), are frequently at the top of the list. Both interfaces provide excellent audio fidelity, robust build quality, and advanced features for professional studios, but they excel in different areas. This article breaks down the key similarities and differences to help you decide which interface is best for your needs.

1. Build and Design Quality

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

The Apollo 8 Quad has a sleek, modern design, featuring a brushed aluminum chassis and a minimalistic front panel. The layout is intuitive, with tactile control knobs and easy access to input gain and headphone levels. It fits seamlessly into any professional studio environment, and its sturdy construction ensures durability for years of use.

RME Fireface UFX II (802 FS):

RME’s Fireface UFX II takes a more utilitarian approach. The interface’s industrial design prioritizes function over form, with a clean, practical layout. RME is known for robust engineering, and the Fireface UFX II doesn’t disappoint with its rock-solid build quality. Its small LCD screen and logical menu system provide efficient navigation, even though it’s slightly less visually striking than the Apollo.

Verdict: While both are built to last, the Apollo 8 Quad offers a more premium, visually appealing design. However, the RME UFX II focuses more on practicality and durability, which might appeal to engineers who value utility.

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2. Sound Quality

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

Apollo interfaces are famous for their pristine audio fidelity and Unison-enabled preamps, which emulate vintage analog gear. The converters provide top-tier clarity with a dynamic range of 123 dB, giving detailed, transparent recordings. The Apollo’s big selling point is its real-time UAD processing, which allows users to track with world-class plugins without latency. For those who want to incorporate analog-style warmth into their digital recordings, the Apollo 8 Quad excels.

RME Fireface UFX II:

RME is renowned for its transparent, crystal-clear sound and extremely low latency. The Fireface UFX II features steady-state converters with a dynamic range of 118 dB (for the AD stage) and 123 dB (DA stage), comparable to the Apollo’s specs. RME’s focus is on delivering precise, uncolored sound, making it ideal for those who want unadulterated recordings with minimal coloring or added harmonics.

Verdict: The Apollo 8 Quad edges ahead with its UAD processing and analog emulation capabilities, perfect for producers looking for warmth and character in their sound. The RME Fireface UFX II is better for those who prioritize ultra-clean, accurate recordings with minimal latency.

3. DSP and Real-Time Processing

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

One of the main reasons producers opt for the Apollo series is its UAD Quad DSP processors. These allow users to run Universal Audio’s highly sought-after plugin collection in real-time, with no CPU load. This means you can record with Neve preamp emulations, Pultec EQs, and 1176 compressors, all without taxing your computer’s processor. The DSP chips offer unrivaled analog emulation, making the Apollo a favorite among mix engineers and producers who value hybrid analog-digital setups.

RME Fireface UFX II:

RME doesn’t offer built-in DSP processing like the Apollo. Instead, its strength lies in its TotalMix FX software. This comprehensive routing and mixing system is extremely versatile, offering real-time mixing with zero latency. It includes basic effects like EQ, reverb, and compression, but without the boutique plugin ecosystem that UAD provides. TotalMix FX is more utilitarian, focusing on flexibility in routing and monitoring rather than vintage sound emulation.

Verdict: The Apollo 8 Quad shines for its DSP processing, making it ideal for those who want to record with vintage analog emulations. RME’s TotalMix FX is more utilitarian, offering robust routing options but without the flashy plugin library.

4. Latency and Driver Stability

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

The Apollo 8 Quad is solid in terms of latency, especially when using its built-in UAD plugins. However, when you rely on your DAW’s plugins or native effects, the latency might increase. Universal Audio’s Thunderbolt connectivity helps improve this, providing lower latency and faster data transmission than USB or Firewire, though it’s still dependent on the user’s computer and setup.

RME Fireface UFX II:

RME is widely considered the king of low latency and driver stability in the industry. Whether using USB or Firewire, the 802 FS (Fireface UFX II) is known for rock-solid performance across platforms. RME’s TotalMix FX allows you to monitor with virtually zero latency, even at high track counts, and the company’s stable, long-lasting drivers are one of its standout features.

Verdict: The RME Fireface UFX II has a clear advantage in latency and driver stability, particularly for demanding studio or live applications. The Apollo is close but relies more on its DSP chips to avoid latency.

5. Connectivity and I/O Options

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

The Apollo 8 Quad features 18 x 24 simultaneous inputs and outputs. It includes four Unison-enabled mic preamps, eight line inputs, two Hi-Z instrument inputs, ADAT, and S/PDIF. The Thunderbolt 2 connectivity offers high-speed data transfer, ensuring smooth operation even with large sessions. Additionally, it can be expanded by chaining other UAD interfaces for more I/O options.

RME Fireface UFX II:

The Fireface UFX II offers 30 x 30 channels of simultaneous I/O, which is more expansive than the Apollo. It includes 12 analog inputs (four with high-quality preamps), AES/EBU, ADAT, MIDI, and word clock connections. It also features DURec (Direct USB Recording), allowing you to record directly to a USB drive without a computer, a unique feature that enhances its flexibility in live settings.

Verdict: RME Fireface UFX II is the winner in terms of I/O flexibility, with more channels and advanced features like DURec. The Apollo 8 Quad is still highly capable but offers fewer inputs and outputs.

6. Software Integration

Universal Audio Apollo 8 Quad:

UAD’s software integrates seamlessly with most DAWs, but its power truly lies in the Console software. This software mimics the look and feel of a vintage recording console, allowing users to manage their sessions with UAD plugins in real time. The LUNA DAW, a free addition to the UAD ecosystem, further enhances the Apollo experience by providing a deeply integrated, tape-machine-style workflow.

RME Fireface UFX II:

RME’s TotalMix FX is legendary in the pro audio world for its versatility and depth. It offers near-limitless routing options, perfect for complex studio setups or live performances. While it doesn’t come with a dedicated DAW like LUNA, its ability to route audio between different hardware and software sources is second to none.

Verdict: The Apollo 8 Quad wins in terms of creative plugin integration and studio-friendly features. RME’s TotalMix FX is unbeatable in routing flexibility, making it the go-to for those who need maximum control over their audio paths.