First Impressions

After spending time with the Universal Audio Apollo x4 Gen 2, it's clear that UA has made some thoughtful improvements to their popular interface lineup. This compact 4-in/6-out Thunderbolt audio interface continues the Apollo tradition of combining high-quality preamps with real-time UAD processing, but it's the smaller details that really make the difference.

Headphone Output Improvement

The standout improvement for me has to be the headphone output. UA clearly listened to feedback from previous Apollo users, because the headphone amp in the x4 is noticeably better than earlier models. The improvement isn't just about volume – though there's definitely more of that. The clarity and separation you get through headphones now matches what you'd expect from the main outputs, a cleaner sound, and better control over the monitoring mix. It’s an upgrade you truly appreciate, especially after using an older unit.

UAD Plugins and Real-Time Processing

In addition to its hardware enhancements, the x4 provides access to Universal Audio's impressive plugin library. With real-time processing, you can track using vintage Neve EQs or 1176 compressors without worrying about latency. This feature remains one of the primary reasons to choose Apollo over its competitors.

Build Quality and Setup

The build quality is robust, and the unit remains cool even during extended sessions. Setting it up is straightforward if you're already part of the UAD ecosystem; however, newcomers may need some time to familiarize themselves with the Console software.

Button Design

If I had to point out one thing that bothers me – and this is purely personal preference – it's the buttons. They work fine and feel sturdy enough, but something about their response just doesn't click with me. Maybe it's the travel distance or the tactile feedback, but I find myself having to look down more often than I'd like when making adjustments.

Final Verdict

The Apollo x4 Gen 2 delivers where it counts. The improved headphone output alone makes it worth considering if you're coming from an older Apollo model, and the overall package remains competitive in this price range. For home studios and smaller commercial setups, the x4 offers the right balance of features and performance.