Many of you may be wondering: what's the difference between the Apollo Twin and the Apollo Solo? The main difference is the processing power: the Apollo Twin offers double (DUO model) and quadruple (QUAD model) the processing power compared to the Apollo Solo, which only offers Solo core processing. The processing power affects how many plug-ins you're able to run simultaneously through the interface. There are also a few other differences/similarities between the models listed in the graphic below.
In this guide, I will go into more detail describing the specific differences between these 2 audio interfaces and the pros and cons of each to help you decide which model is right for you.
Apollo Twin vs Solo: Which is Better?
The Apollo Twin is the better model when it comes to processing power. However, if you don't anticipate needing to run many plug-ins simultaneously and you're mainly buying an Apollo interface for the high quality audio recording capabilities, you'll likely be fine with the Apollo Solo. However, you might end up realizing that you do need that extra processing power down the road, so if you have the budget, I'd recommend going with the Apollo Twin (DUO or QUAD versions).
Which model is right for you really comes down to your specific needs as a music producer and/or audio engineer. Keep reading to dive a bit deeper into each of these interfaces to help you make the most informed purchase decision possible.
Price: $999.00 (for DUO version), $1,425.95 (for QUAD version)
The Apollo Twin X is one of the most popular desktop audio interfaces among intermediate-to-advanced music producers and audio engineers. This interface allows you to capture professional quality recordings from the comfort of your bedroom or home studio. It's also amazing at emulating classic analog gear to give your recordings a beautiful vintage tone if that's what you're after.
While those features alone may be enough of a selling point for this interface, one of the most powerful features of the Apollo series is the UAD core processing, meaning the audio signals from your instrument and/or microphone are processed within the interface and won't rely on processing power from your computer. This means less overloading of your computer and less DAW crashes, which we can all appreciate.
The Apollo Twin X is offered in a DUO version and a QUAD version - this just refers to the amount of chips/processing power included in each unit. The DUO version has 2 chips, and the QUAD has 4 chips, meaning the QUAD is able to process more than the DUO. Both of these version offer more DSP (digital signal processing) than the Apollo Solo, which is the main differentiating factor between the Twin and Solo.
Lastly, when you purchase the Apollo Twin X it comes with a Universal Audio plugin bundle (a $1,300 value). These are some of the most sought after plugins in the world and they work seamlessly with Apollo interfaces. This means you'll be able to record at near-zero latency while using these extremely powerful plugins. According to the Universal Audio website, "it’s like having an endless analog studio...on your desktop." The Apollo Twin also comes with the “Realtime Analog Classics” UAD plug-in bundle which features UA 610-B Tube Preamp Legacy Pultec EQ, LA-2A and 1176 compressors, Marshall Plexi Classic, Ampeg SVT-VR Classic, and more.
Price: $499.00
The Apollo Solo is another extremely popular audio interface due to the legendary reputation of Universal Audio and the more affordable sticker price of $499. In terms of the quality of your audio recordings, the Solo is virtually identical to the Apollo Twin. The real difference between the 2 models is the core processing power.
The Apollo Solo only offers Solo core processing, meaning it's only able to withstand 1/2 or 1/4 of the processing strain that the Apollo Twin DUO and Apollo Twin QUAD are capable of withstanding. If you don't foresee yourself running lots of plug-ins simultaneously, the Apollo Solo will likely work just fine for your needs.
The Apollo Solo also comes with the UAD plugin bundle, which is an extremely valuable inclusion considering all those plugins would cost thousands of dollars if purchased separately. However, it does NOT come with the “Realtime Analog Classics” UAD plug-in bundle that comes with the Apollo Twin.
One last drawback to consider is the Apollo Solo does not offer ADAT/SPDIF inputs that allow you to expand the number of digital inputs available on the unit. This won't be a problem if you're just recording 1 or 2 musicians at a time, but could be an issue if you ever plan on recording more than 2 musicians at once.
Final Thoughts
Both the Apollo Twin and the Apollo Solo are world-class audio interfaces and will provide you with professional sounding recordings in your home studio. The only thing you really need to consider is how much processing power you'll need from your audio interface. If you need lots of DSP power - go with the Apollo Twin DUO or QUAD. If you just want to record 1-2 musicians and don't plan on going crazy with plug-in usage - go with the Apollo Solo.
I hope this comparison has helped you understand the difference between the Apollo Twin vs Solo! If you have any lingering questions, feel free to leave them down below in the comments.
Enjoyed this guide? Make sure to check out our Bedroom Producer Essentials Guide or some of our reviews/buyer's guides.
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When you mention plug-ins in the article do you mean plug-ins in my DAW or plug-ins in UAD Console? Thanks.