Universal Audio Apollo 16 User Manual
H I GH- R ESO L U T I O N I N TER F A C E
with Realtime UAD Processing
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual
UA Part Number 65-00057
Revision 001
Customer Service & Technical Support:
USA Toll-Free: +1-877-698-2834
International: +1-831-440-1176
www.uaudio.com
A Letter from Bill Putnam Jr.
Thank you for deciding to make the Apollo 16 High-Resolution Interface part of your music making experience.
We know that any new piece of gear requires an investment of time and money — and our goal is to make your
investment pay off. The fact that we get to play a part in your creative process is what makes our efforts at UA
meaningful, and we thank you for this.
In many ways, Apollo and Apollo 16 represent the best examples of what UA has stood for over its long history;
from UA’s original founding in the 1950s by my father, up through our current vision of delivering the best of
both analog and digital audio technologies. For more than 50 years, UA has produced some of the most coveted
pieces of analog recording equipment. More recently, we have pioneered cutting edge digital signal processing which has allowed us to offer exacting digital emulations of classic analog hardware. Our unique expertise
and experience across both analog and digital have allowed us to make audio interfaces that we think are very
special.
Starting with high-quality analog I/O, Apollo 16’s superior sonic performance serves as its foundation. This
is just the beginning however, as Apollo and Apollo 16 are the only audio interfaces that allow you to run UAD
plug-ins in real time, tracking and monitoring using any of our plug-ins. Want to monitor yourself through a
Neve® console channel strip while tracking bass through a Fairchild or LA-2A compressor? Or how about tracking vocals through a Studer® tape machine with some added Lexicon® reverb?* No problem. This is something that only Apollo interfaces offer.
At UA, we are dedicated to the idea that technology should ultimately serve the creative process — not be a
barrier. These are the very ideals my father embodied as he invented audio equipment to solve problems in the
studio. With this in mind, we have crafted Apollo 16’s Console software with an “analog workflow.” The convenience of this Console workflow, along with innovations such as the Console Recall plug-in, provide ease-of-use
and DAW integration for truly unique and productive experience.
As you get to know Apollo 16 and incorporate it into your creative process, we hope that the excitement and
pride that we have put into it comes through. We also hope that it earns its way into your creative process,
providing you with great sound, exceptional plug-ins, and ease-of-use for years to come. Thanks.
Sincerely,
Bill Putnam Jr.
*All trademarks are recognized as property of their respective owners. Individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins sold separately.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Welcomeii
Table Of Contents
A Letter from Bill Putnam Jr. ................................................................................................................................ii
Introduction.......................................................................................................................................................... 4
What is Apollo 16? ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Apollo 16 Features ......................................................................................................................................... 5
Hardware System Requirements .................................................................................................................... 6
About Realtime UAD Processing .................................................................................................................... 7
Combining with other UAD-2 devices ............................................................................................................ 7
Standalone Use ............................................................................................................................................. 7
About Apollo 16 Documentation .................................................................................................................... 8
Technical Support .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Front Panel ......................................................................................................................................................... 10
Rear Panel.......................................................................................................................................................... 13
Analog I/O.................................................................................................................................................... 13
Digital I/O .................................................................................................................................................... 14
Host I/O ....................................................................................................................................................... 16
Software Installation .......................................................................................................................................... 17
Registration & Authorization .............................................................................................................................. 18
Interconnections................................................................................................................................................. 19
Installation Notes ........................................................................................................................................ 19
FireWire Basics................................................................................................................................................... 23
Digital Clocking Basics ...................................................................................................................................... 27
Specifications..................................................................................................................................................... 29
Hardware Block Diagram.................................................................................................................................... 32
DB25 Wiring ....................................................................................................................................................... 33
Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................. 34
Additional Resources.......................................................................................................................................... 35
Universal Audio Website .............................................................................................................................. 35
Technical Support ........................................................................................................................................ 35
Maintenance................................................................................................................................................ 35
Voltage Selection ......................................................................................................................................... 35
Warranty ...................................................................................................................................................... 36
Repair Service ............................................................................................................................................. 36
Notices ............................................................................................................................................................... 37
Index .................................................................................................................................................................. 39
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Table Of Contentsiii
Introduction
What is Apollo 16?
Apollo 16 is a high-resolution audio interface with Realtime UAD Processing onboard that gives recording engineers a no-compromise monitoring, tracking, and mixing solution. The combination of Apollo 16’s high quality
converters, cue mixing, and digital signal processing help you achieve the goal of making music without the
common latency and potential processor shortcomings of an all-native system. Apollo 16 leverages Universal
Audio’s expertise in DSP acceleration, UAD Powered Plug-Ins, and analog hardware design by integrating the
latest cutting edge technologies in high-performance A/D-D/A conversion, DSP signal reconstruction, and host
connectivity. Apollo 16 acts as both an audio interface with integrated DSP effects for tracking and monitoring
as well as a fully integrated UAD-2 DSP accelerator for mixing and mastering.
Apollo 16 has 4 SHARC™ DSPs for running UAD Powered Plug-Ins during tracking or mixing. You have an
amazing sounding interface that can achieve the professional sound quality of any era in recording history by
using UAD Powered Plug-Ins.
Apollo 16 uses FireWire or Thunderbolt for computer connectivity. FireWire 800 doubles the performance of
FireWire 400 and ensures the ability to use all of Apollo 16’s I/O as well as its DSP processing. Thunderbolt is a
high-speed data transmission protocol that provides faster throughput than FireWire. The Thunderbolt Option
Card (not included) can be easily installed in Apollo 16’s expansion bay allowing Apollo 16 to connect with
Thunderbolt-enabled computers.
To fully realize the low latency potential of Apollo 16, the Console application is included, providing a familiar
analog mixing console interface where you can load your favorite combination of Realtime UAD plug-ins. Configuring up to four unique cue mixes is quick and intuitive and you can also set up reverbs and delays (or any
other UAD effects) on two auxiliary buses for comfortable tracking of live microphones and instruments.
Achieving deep integration of Apollo 16’s features with your favorite audio workstation software is simple
thanks to the Console Recall plug-in that is compatible with VST, Audio Units, and RTAS host software. Simply
place the Console Recall plug-in into any session and you have instant control over Apollo 16’s monitoring and
Realtime UAD plug-in wet/dry record options. A single “Sync” button on the plug-in will automatically recall the
Console configuration within the DAW session without having to manage separate Console preset files, so you
can be sure that the Console mix you are working with today will be accurately recalled tomorrow.
Done tracking? Use Apollo 16 just like any other UAD-2 device for mixing in the DAW. The full UAD Powered
Plug-Ins library works with Apollo 16, offering the best analog emulation plug-ins available from the best
companies in pro audio such as Neve, SSL, Pultec, Teletronix, Studer, Lexicon, DBX, Roland, MXR, Harrison,
Empirical Labs, Manley, Ampex, and many more.* A single button in the Console lets you decide to “print” or
“monitor” the Realtime UAD plug-ins – so if you want the sound of your favorite console and tape machine
committed into your DAW, you can print those effects on the way in.
Quite simply, Apollo 16 delivers the sound, feel, and flow of analog recording with all the conveniences of modern digital equipment.
*All trademarks are recognized as property of their respective owners. Individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins sold separately.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 4
Apollo 16 Features
• Superior-sounding 18 x 20 audio interface with uncompromising UA analog design
• Realtime monitoring and tracking with premium UAD Powered Plug-Ins
• Additional mixing and mastering DSP horsepower for your sessions
• FireWire 800 built-in; user-installable Thunderbolt Option Card (not included)
Audio Interface
• Sample rates up to 192 kHz at 24-bit word length
• 16 x 18 simultaneous analog input/output channels:
• 16 channels of analog-to-digital conversion via line inputs on dual DB25 connectors
• 18 channels of digital-to-analog conversion:
• 16 line outputs via dual DB25 connectors
• Stereo monitor outputs via dual XLR connectors
• Adjustable reference levels for all analog I/O (+4 dBu or -10 dBV)
• Two channels of AES/EBU digital I/O with optional sample rate conversion on input
• Front panel pre-fader metering of analog signal input or output levels
• Two FireWire 800 ports for daisy-chaining other FireWire devices
• Multiple Apollo 16 units can be cascaded for increased simultaneous I/O
Monitoring
• Independently-addressable stereo monitor outputs (in addition to 16 line outputs)
• Digitally-controlled analog monitor outputs maintains highest fidelity
• Front panel control of monitor levels and muting
• Front panel pre-fader metering of monitor bus levels
• Digital AES/EBU outputs can be set to mirror the analog monitor outputs
UAD-2 QUAD Inside
• Four SHARC DSP processors
• Realtime UAD Powered Plug-Ins processing on all of Apollo 16’s analog and AES/EBU inputs
• Same features and functionality as other UAD-2 products when used with DAW
• Can be combined with other UAD-2 devices for increased mixing DSP
• Includes UAD Powered Plug-Ins “Analog Classics” bundle
• Complete UAD-2 Powered Plug-Ins library is available online
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 5
Software
• Console application:
• Enables Realtime UAD Powered Plug-Ins processing
• Controls Apollo 16’s DSP mixer for realtime monitoring and/or tracking with UAD plug-ins
• Four independent stereo Cue busses
• Two independent stereo Auxiliary busses
• Remote control of Apollo 16 features and functionality
• Console Recall plug-in:
• Saves Apollo 16 configurations inside DAW sessions for easy recall
• Enables control of front panel parameters from within the DAW
• VST, RTAS, and Audio Units plug-in formats
• UAD Meter & Control Panel application:
• Configures global UAD-2 and UAD Powered Plug-Ins settings and monitors system usage
Other
• Easily updatable firmware
• 1U rack-mountable form factor
• One year warranty includes parts and labor
Hardware System Requirements
The host computer must meet the hardware system requirements below to use Apollo 16. For software system
requirements, refer to the Apollo Software Manual (see “About Apollo 16 Documentation” on page 8).
Basic audio interface I/O functionality:
• Available FireWire 800 or Thunderbolt* expansion port
• 2 gigabytes available disk space
• Internet connection for downloading installation software**
UAD-2 and Realtime UAD Powered Plug-Ins functionality:
• Internet connection to download installation software** and authorize UAD plug-ins
• Compatible VST, Audio Units, or RTAS plug-in host application software
*
Thunderbolt connections require the Thunderbolt Option Card
**Software installer is not included in box
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 6
About Realtime UAD Processing
Apollo 16 has the ability to run UAD Powered Plug-Ins in realtime. Apollo 16’s groundbreaking DSP + FPGA
technology enable UAD Powered Plug-Ins to run with latencies in the sub-2ms range, and multiple UAD plugins can be “stacked” in series without incurring additional latency. Realtime UAD Processing facilitates the
ultimate sonic experience while monitoring and/or tracking.
Note: Apollo 16, like other UAD-2 devices, can only load UAD Powered Plug-Ins which are specifically
designed to run on UAD-2 DSP accelerators. “Native” plug-ins cannot run on the UAD-2 DSP.
Console
Realtime UAD Processing is a special function that is available only within the Console application. All of
Apollo 16’s analog and AES/EBU inputs can perform Realtime UAD processing simultaneously, and Console
inputs with (or without) Realtime UAD Processing can be routed into the DAW for recording.
For complete details about Console and Realtime UAD Processing, refer to the Apollo Software Manual (see
“About Apollo 16 Documentation” on page 8).
UAD plug-ins in the DAW
UAD Powered Plug-Ins can also be used within the DAW without the use of Console. UAD Powered Plug-Ins
loaded within the DAW operate like other (non-UAD) plug-ins, except the processing occurs on the Apollo 16 DSP
instead of the host computer’s processor. In this scenario, UAD plug-ins are subject to the latencies incurred by
I/O buffering.
For complete details about using UAD Powered Plug-Ins in the DAW, refer to the UAD System Manual (see
“About Apollo 16 Documentation” on page 8).
Combining with other UAD-2 devices
Apollo 16 can be used simultaneously with UAD-2 cards (PCIe), UAD-2 Satellite (FireWire), and/or UAD-2 SOLO/
Laptop (ExpressCard) in the same host computer system. Apollo 16 simply adds to the DSP availability when
used with other UAD-2 devices, increasing the DSP processing power so more UAD Powered Plug-Ins can be
used. Up to four UAD-2 devices can be combined in the same system.
Standalone Use
Although the Console application is required to unleash the full power of Apollo 16, the unit can be used as a
digital mixer with limited functionality without a FireWire or Thunderbolt connection to a host computer.
All currently active I/O assignments, signal routings, and monitor settings are saved to internal firmware when
Apollo 16 is powered down and persist when power is re-applied. Therefore the last-used settings are always
available even when a host computer is not used.
Note that UAD Powered Plug-In instantiations are not retained on power down, because the plug-in files reside
on the host computer. However, if UAD plug-ins are active when Apollo 16’s connection to the host system is
severed, the current UAD plug-in configurations remain active for processing until Apollo 16 is powered down.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 7
About Apollo 16 Documentation
Documentation for all Apollo 16 components is extensive, so instructions are separated by area of functionality, as detailed below. All documentation is copied to the startup disk during UAD Powered Plug-Ins software
installation (Apollo 16 documentation can also be downloaded from our website).
Note: All manuals are in PDF format. PDF files require a free PDF reader application such as Adobe
Reader (Windows) or Preview (Mac).
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual
The Apollo 16 Hardware Manual (available in print and PDF) contains complete information about the audio
interface hardware. Included are detailed descriptions for all Apollo 16 hardware features, control functions,
and connections. Refer to this hardware manual to learn about interfacing the hardware with other devices,
operating the panel controls, clocking, specifications, and related information.
Apollo Software Manual
The Apollo Software Manual (PDF only) is the companion guide to the Apollo 16 Hardware Manual. It contains
detailed information about how to configure and control Apollo and Apollo 16 software features using the
Console application and Console Recall plug-in. Refer to this document to learn how to operate these essential
software tools and integrate Apollo 16’s audio interface functionality into the DAW environment.
UAD System Manual
The UAD System Manual (PDF only) is the complete operation manual for Apollo 16’s UAD-2 functionality and
applies to the entire UAD product line. It contains detailed information about installing and configuring UAD
devices, the UAD Meter & Control Panel application, how to use UAD Powered Plug-Ins within a DAW, obtaining
optional plug-in licenses at the UA online store, and more. It includes everything about UAD-2 except information specific to Apollo 16 and individual UAD Powered Plug-In descriptions.
UAD Plug-Ins Manual
The features and functionality of all the individual UAD Powered Plug-Ins is detailed in the UAD Plug-Ins
Manual (PDF only). Refer to this document to learn about the operation, controls, and user interface of each
plug-in. It does not contain any system-related or integration information.
Thunderbolt Option Card
All user documentation for Apollo 16’s Thunderbolt Option Card is located on the Thunderbolt Support Page on
our website (there is no separate manual). Please review the information on the page carefully before installing
or using the device:
• www.uaudio.com/support/thunderbolt
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 8
Host DAW Documentation
Each host DAW application has its own particular methods for configuring audio interfaces and using plugins. Refer to the host DAW’s documentation for specific instructions about using audio interface and plug-in
features within the DAW.
Support Pages
The latest technical information about Apollo 16 is posted on the Universal Audio support website. Our support
pages may contain updated, late-breaking information that is not available in other publications. The URL of
our support site is:
• www.uaudio.com/support
Technical Support
Universal Audio provides free customer support to all registered Apollo 16 users. Our support specialists are
available to assist you via email and telephone during our normal business hours, which are from 9am to 5pm,
Monday through Friday, Pacific Standard Time.
Telephone
USA toll-free: +1-877-698-2834
International: +1-831-440-1176
Online Support
To request online support via email, please visit our main support page at the URL below, then click the “Submit Support Ticket” button on the right side of the loaded page to create a help ticket.
• www.uaudio.com/support
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Introduction 9
Front Panel
This section describes the features and functionality of all controls and visual elements on the Apollo 16 front
panel. Note that most front panel functions can be controlled remotely with the Console software application.
1
METER
2 4 5 6 7 93 8
HOST
CLOCK
INT
EXT
METER
OUT
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
RATE
44.1
48
88.2
96
IN
176.4
192
C
0
-3
-6
-9
-12
-15
-18
-21
-27
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
C
0
-3
-6
-9
-12
-15
-18
-21
-27
1 2
-12
-15
-18
-21
-27
C
0
-3
-6
-9
MONITOR
POWER
METER I/O
OFF
(1) Meter
The METER button determines which signals, either input or output, are displayed by the Channel Meters (4).
Push the switch to toggle the meter display state between Input and Output. The current meter state is displayed by the METER indicators (2).
(2) Status Indicators
These indicators display the status of the host computer connection, clock, and signal meters, as described
below.
Host
The HOST indicator displays the status of the connection to the host computer system. The indicator is illuminated when Apollo 16 is connected to, and properly communicating with, the host computer system via FireWire
or Thunderbolt. The indicator is off when the host computer is not detected.
The Apollo 16 software must be properly installed and configured on the host computer to enable communication, and the HOST indicator must be illuminated to use Apollo 16 with all computer operations. The only time
the HOST link is not required is when Apollo 16 is used without a computer (see “Standalone Use” on page
7).
Clock
The CLOCK indicator displays the status of the Apollo 16 clock. When Apollo 16 is using its internal clock as the
master clock source, the INT indicator is illuminated.
When Apollo 16 is set to use an external clock as the master clock source and a valid clock signal is detected at
the specified port, the EXT indicator is illuminated and white.
If the EXT indicator is illuminated and red, Apollo 16 is configured to use an external clock but it cannot lock
to the specified source, and the internal clock remains active instead. In this situation, if/when the specified
external clock becomes available, Apollo 16 switches back to the external clock, and the EXT indicator is illuminated and white.
Note: Apollo 16 can be configured to use its internal clock, or an external clock from the Word Clock or
AES/EBU inputs. The clock setting is configured in the Interface panel of the Console Settings window;
see the Apollo Software Manual for details.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Front Panel 10
Meter
The METER indicator reflects the state of the Channel Meters (4). The I/O state of the Channel Meters is
switched with the METER button (1).
When IN is illuminated, the Channel Meters display levels at the analog inputs. When OUT is illuminated, the
Channel Meters display levels at the analog outputs.
(3) Sample Rate Indicators
The Apollo 16 sample rate is indicated in this area. The active sample rate is illuminated.
(4) Channel Meters
The sixteen 10-segment LED meters display the signal peak levels for analog channels 1 – 16. The Channel
Meters can display either the input or output levels, as determined by the METER button (1).
Signal levels are displayed at the input to the A/D converters (IN mode) or the output of the D/A converters (OUT
mode). The dB values of the meter LEDs are indicated between the meters for channels 4 & 5 and 12 & 13.
“0” indicates a level of 0 dBFS. When digital clipping occurs, the red “C” LED illuminates. Avoid digital clipping at the channel’s A/D converter by reducing the channel’s level at its source.
(5) Power Indicator (UA Logo)
The Universal Audio logo illuminates when the external power supply is properly connected to an AC outlet and
the power input on the rear of the unit, and the POWER switch (9) is in the up position.
(6) Monitor Output Level Meters
These dual 10-segment LED meters display the signal peak output levels for the monitor outputs at the output
of the D/A converters. These meters are before the Monitor Level control (pre-fader) and reflect the D/A converter levels regardless of the current Monitor Level knob setting (7).
The dB values of the monitor meter LEDs are indicated between the left and right channel meters. “0” indicates
a level of 0 dBFS. When digital clipping occurs, the red “C” LED illuminates. Avoid clipping at the monitor D/A
converters by reducing the monitor bus output level and/or the channels feeding the monitor output bus.
(7) Monitor Level and Mute Knob
This “endless” rotary encoder serves two functions. Rotating the knob adjusts the monitor output level, and
pushing the knob mutes the monitor outputs, as described below.
Monitor Level
The control knob adjusts the signal level at monitor outputs on the rear panel. Although this is a digital control,
the monitor volume is attenuated in the analog domain, after D/A conversion (digitally-controlled analog
volume). This method provides the utmost monitoring fidelity, in contrast to digital volume controls that reduce
levels by truncating the word length (“dropping bits”). The available range is from -INF dBFS (no output)
to 0 dBFS.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Front Panel 11
Monitor Mute
Pushing the Monitor knob toggles the mute state of the signals at monitor outputs on the rear panel. When the
monitor outputs are muted, the Monitor Level Indicator (8) is red. When the monitor outputs are not muted, the
Monitor Level Indicator is green.
(8) Monitor Level Indicator
The signal level at the rear panel monitor outputs is displayed with the illuminated indicator ring surrounding
the Monitor Level knob (7). The ring is green when the monitor outputs are active, and red when the monitor
outputs are muted. This level indicator is after the Monitor Level control (post fader).
Note: This feature indicates relative levels only and is not calibrated to any specific dB values.
(9) Power Switch
This switch applies power to Apollo 16. When the unit is powered on, the Universal Audio logo is illuminated.
The external power supply must be properly connected for this switch to function.
As with any sound system, to avoid audio spikes in your speakers, the following steps are recommended:
• Apply power to the speakers last, after all other devices (including Apollo 16) are powered on.
• Turn off the speakers first, before all other devices (including Apollo 16) are powered off.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Front Panel 12
Rear Panel
This section describes the features and functionality of all connectors and controls on the Apollo 16 rear panel.
Analog I/O
1 2 3
MON OUT (R) 2 MON OUT (L) 1
LINE OUT 9-16
LINE OUT 1-8 LINE IN 1-8
LINE IN 9-16
(1) Monitor Outputs 1 & 2
These balanced XLR jacks are line-level analog outputs typically used for connection to a stereo loudspeaker
monitoring system. The signal levels at these outputs are controlled with the Monitor Level knob (7).
The Monitor Outputs can be configured to use reference levels of +4 dBu or -10 dBV. This function is configured
in the Outputs panel of the Console Settings window in the Console application.
The Monitor Outputs are completely independent from the 16 analog line outputs. By default, the “1–2” or
“Main” outputs from a DAW are routed to these outputs. Stereo panning of input signals routed to these outputs is defined within the Console and/or DAW applications.
NOTE: The AES/ABU outputs can be configured to mirror the Monitor Outputs. See “(8) AES/EBU Ports”
on page 15 for details.
(2) Line Outputs 1 – 16
The 16 analog outputs are accessed via dual female DB25 connectors. Each DB25 jack carries eight balanced
line-level channel outputs using standardized Tascam wiring.
The Line Outputs can be configured in adjacent pairs to use -10 dBV or +4 dBu reference levels. This function
is configured in the Outputs panel of the Console Settings window in the Console application.
(3) Line Inputs 1 – 16
The 16 analog inputs are accessed via dual female DB25 connectors. Each DB25 jack carries eight balanced
line-level channel inputs using standardized Tascam pinouts.
The Line Inputs can be configured to use -10 dBV or +4 dBu reference levels. This function is configured within
the input channel strips in the Console application.
Note: See “DB25 Wiring” on page 33 for DB25 connector pinout diagrams.
Apollo 16 Hardware Manual Rear Panel 13
Loading...