USB 3 Audio Interface Apollo Solo USB Manual UAD Software Version 9 Manual Version 200729 www.uaudio.
Table Of Contents Tip: Click any section or page number to jump directly to that page. A Letter from Bill Putnam Jr................................................................... 7 Introducing Apollo Solo USB.................................................................. 8 Apollo Solo USB Software Features.................................................................... 11 UAD Powered Plug-In Features..........................................................................
Working With Apollo Solo USB.............................................................. 41 Essential Apollo Solo USB Concepts................................................................... 42 Setting the DAW to use Apollo Solo USB I/O........................................................ 44 Accessing Apollo Solo USB’s I/O in the DAW....................................................... 46 Input Monitoring with the DAW..........................................................................
Console Reference............................................................................... 89 Meter Bridge.................................................................................................... 89 View Column.................................................................................................... 92 View Options.................................................................................................... 95 Info Bar.........................................................
Unison............................................................................................. 166 What is Unison?............................................................................................. 166 Unison Plug-Ins.............................................................................................. 167 Activating Unison........................................................................................... 168 Unique Behavior of Unison Inserts...................................
UA Account & Store........................................................................... 211 Account Overview........................................................................................... 211 Store Overview................................................................................................ 212 UAD Authorization Overview............................................................................. 213 Demo Mode......................................................................
A Letter from Bill Putnam Jr. Thank you for choosing the Apollo Solo USB 3 Audio Interface as 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.
Introducing Apollo Solo USB Shape your Recordings Into Records with Genuine UA Conversion and Classic Studio Sounds. Apollo Solo USB is a desktop recording audio interface for Windows — delivering classleading audio conversion, two Unison™ mic preamps, and a suite of onboard UAD plugins for recording album-quality results, in real time. This compact 2x4 interface starts with esteemed Apollo A/D and D/A conversion to sonically outperform anything in its class.
Access the World of UAD Powered Plug-Ins Beyond the included Realtime Analog Classics plug-ins, Apollo Solo USB lets you tap into the full library of award-winning UAD Powered Plug-Ins — including vintage EQs, Compressors, Reverbs, Tape Machines, Auto-Tune and more — in real time. With exclusive emulations from Neve, Ampex, Lexicon, Fender, Antares, Moog, and more,* the creative possibilities are nearly endless.
Apollo Solo USB Hardware Features Key Features • • • • • • • Best in class audio quality with 24-bit/192 kHz conversion Realtime UAD Processing — track through vintage compressors, EQs, tape machines, and guitar amp/pedal plug-ins with near-zero latency 2 premium mic/line preamps, 2 monitor outputs, front-panel Hi-Z instrument input and stereo headphone output Unison™ technology for stunning models of classic mic preamps and guitar amps UAD-2 DSP accelerator processing onboard USB 3 connection (Type-C) for
UAD-2 Inside • • • • Onboard UAD-2 DSP Accelerator with SHARC® SOLO core processing Realtime UAD Processing on all inputs Same features and functionality as other UAD-2 devices and plug-ins when used with a DAW Complete UAD Powered Plug-Ins library is available online Other • • • Attractive and durable desktop form factor Easy firmware updates One year limited warranty Package Contents • • • Apollo Solo USB 3 Audio Interface External power supply with changeable region-specific AC connectors Getting St
Monitoring: • • • Stereo monitor mix bus with level, mute, solo, dim, and source select controls Separate stereo headphone cue mix bus Independent monophonic sum controls for both mix buses Auxiliary Buses: • • • • Two stereo auxiliary send/return buses with independent level, mute, and mono sum controls Four plug-in inserts per auxiliary return for Realtime UAD Processing on auxes Auxiliary buses can be routed to main monitor mix and/or headphone outputs Independent pre/post switching on each auxiliar
UAD Powered Plug-In Features • • • • • • Run UAD plug-ins with Apollo Solo USB’s integrated UAD-2 DSP Accelerator Apollo Solo USB includes the Realtime Analog Classics UAD plug-ins bundle Over 100 UAD plug-ins available at the UA online store Fully functional 14 day demo available for all UAD plug-ins Realtime UAD Processing via Console allows monitoring and tracking through UAD plug-ins with near-zero latency, regardless of DAW’s I/O buffer setting Includes VST and AAX 64 plug-in formats for compatibility
About Apollo Solo USB Documentation Documentation for Apollo Solo USB and UAD Powered Plug-Ins are separated by areas of functionality, as described below. The user manuals are placed on the system drive during software installation. They can also be downloaded at help.uaudio.com. Note: All manual files are in PDF format. PDF files require a free PDF reader application such as Edge (included with Windows 10).
Host DAW Documentation Each host DAW software application has its own particular methods for configuring and using audio interfaces and plug-ins. Refer to the host DAW documentation for specific instructions about using audio interface and plug-in features within the DAW. Glossary This manual uses technical terms and acronyms that may be unfamiliar. Refer to the Glossary for the definitions of many of these terms. Hyperlinks Links to other manual sections and web pages are highlighted in blue text.
Getting Started Overview Before you can use Apollo Solo USB, you need to complete these steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. Connect Apollo Solo USB to your computer with a USB 3 cable and power on Download and install the latest UAD software Register your Apollo Solo USB hardware Authorize your UAD plug-ins Additionally, you'll want to learn these essential Apollo Solo USB operations: • Connect to Input Sources and Monitor System – How to connect your audio gear.
Hardware Setup Choose a Suitable Location • • • Locate Apollo Solo USB on a flat surface. The location should be sturdy enough to securely hold its weight and withstand the pressure of operating the top panel controls. Leave enough room at the front and rear of the unit for connecting cables. USB 3 Cable Length Apollo Solo USB is designed for use with a USB 3 SuperSpeed cable length of two meters or less (approximately six feet or less).
Software Setup The Apollo Solo USB software must be installed to use Apollo Solo USB and UAD plug‑ins. The UAD Powered Plug-Ins Installer places the software onto the computer’s startup drive. After software installation, you'll register your Apollo Solo USB hardware and authorize your UAD plug-ins. Our Web Pages Guide You The Universal Audio website guides you through the process of UAD software installation, Apollo Solo USB hardware registration, and UAD plug-in authorization.
Windows Setup Disable Windows Notification Sounds Windows notification sounds (such as a "ding" when an alert window appears) can interfere with DAW audio. Follow the procedure below to disable all notification sounds. 1. Open the Sound control panel. Sound can be accessed by right-clicking the Windows Start Menu and selecting Control Panel from the contextual menu, clicking Hardware and Sound, then clicking Sound within the Hardware and Sound window. 2.
Audio Setup Connect to Input Sources and Monitor System One typical Apollo Solo USB audio setup is illustrated below. For complete details about all of Apollo Solo USB's connectors and controls, see the Hardware Controls & Connectors chapter in this manual.
Setting Hardware Input/Output Levels This section explains how to set input gain levels for the hardware inputs (mic, line, and Hi-Z instrument) and adjust volume levels for the stereo hardware outputs (monitor speakers and headphones). Refer to the Top Panel and Display Panel illustrations for the control names and numbers mentioned below. Important: Before proceeding, lower the volume of the monitor speakers and remove headphones from your ears. Set Input Gains 1.
What Next? After the initial setups in this chapter are complete, Apollo Solo USB is ready to be used with the included Console application, your DAW (digital audio workstation) software, and UAD Powered Plug-Ins. To learn how to operate Apollo Solo USB, refer to the areas of functionality below. Hardware Controls & Connectors To learn how to use the controls on Apollo Solo USB's top panel and how the front and rear connections can be used, see Hardware Controls & Connectors.
Hardware Controls & Connectors Complete details about all Apollo Solo USB hardware controls and connector jacks are provided in this chapter. Tip: To learn how to set input gain levels (Mic, Line, and Hi-Z instrument) and output volumes (monitors and headphones), see Setting Hardware Input/Output Levels in the Getting Started chapter. Controls Overview Some Apollo Solo USB controls have multiple functions.
Selected Channel The currently selected input channel is shown by the CH1 and CH2 indicators at the upper left of the main display panel, above the input meters, as shown at right. The top panel controls adjust the functions of the currently selected channel only. Important: To adjust an input channel’s settings, that input channel must be selected. The currently selected channel may need to be changed to the other channel.
MONITOR Mode When Apollo Solo USB is in monitor mode, all top panel controls are related to output functions only. To adjust any output function, press the MONITOR button to enter monitor mode and activate the monitor controls. Important: Apollo Solo USB must be in MONITOR mode to adjust the volume of the monitor and headphone outputs with the hardware controls. Monitor volume can be adjusted with the Console software application when Apollo Solo USB is not in monitor mode.
Top Panel Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section. 6 1 2 3 5 4 Top panel elements (1) LEVEL Knob & Switch The LEVEL knob & switch controls multiple functions. The knob’s current function is selected with the MONITOR (3) and PREAMP (4) buttons. Monitor Mode When in MONITOR Mode (3), rotate clockwise to increase the monitor output level or headphone output level, depending on which output (10 or 12) is selected with the MONITOR (3) button.
(2) PREAMP Gain & Volume Level Indicator LEDs The LEDs around the LEVEL knob indicate the relative level of the selected function (input preamp gain or monitor/headphone volume). Note: The indicator LEDs are RED when MONITOR (3) is selected and MUTE is active. (3) MONITOR Button Press this button to enter MONITOR mode for controlling the monitor and headphone functions. Press again to alternate between control of MONITOR and HEADPHONE volumes with the LEVEL knob (1).
Preamp Options The option buttons control the PREAMP options (labeled a through f below) for an input channel when that channel is selected (7) with the PREAMP button (4). A preamp option is active when its indicator (13) in the display is lit, and inactive when the indicator is dim. If the indicator is unlit, the option is unavailable. Note: In MONITOR Mode, the preamp options cannot be modified and all preamp options in the display are unlit.
Display Panel Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section. 7 10 8 11 9 12 13 Display panel elements (7) Channel Selection Indicators The currently selected input channel is indicated by the lit channel name above its input meter (CH1 or CH2). Press the PREAMP button (4) to switch between channels 1 & 2. (8) Input Meters These meters display the incoming signal level for input channels 1 & 2.
(12) Headphone Selected Indicator When lit, the LEVEL knob (1) controls the volume of the headphone output (15). Press the MONITOR button (3) to light this indicator and activate headphone volume control (you may need to push it twice). (13) Preamp Options Display This area displays the status of the six preamp options, which are controlled by the six preamp option buttons (5). Three status indications are possible: Bright – The preamp option is active. Dim – The preamp option is inactive.
Rear Panel Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section. Note: All rear panel ¼” jacks can accept unbalanced TS (tip-sleeve) or balanced TRS (tip-ring-sleeve) connections. 16 17 18 19 20 Rear panel connectors (16) Power Switch This rocker switch applies power to Apollo Solo USB. Switch to OFF when not in use. Caution: Before powering Apollo Solo USB, lower the volume of the monitor speakers and remove headphones from your ears.
(20) Mic/Line Inputs 1 & 2 The female combo jacks for channels 1 & 2 accept either a male XLR plug for connecting to the mic input, or a ¼” phone plug for connecting to the line input. The input jack that is used for the channel (MIC or LINE) is specified with the Input Select button (5-a). Caution: To avoid potential equipment damage, disable +48V phantom power on the channel before connecting or disconnecting its XLR input.
Apollo Solo USB System Overview To get the most from your Apollo Solo USB and UAD plug-ins, it helps to have an understanding of the overall Apollo Solo USB system. This chapter provides an overview of the Apollo Solo USB hardware and software components. Apollo Solo USB Hardware USB 3 Audio Interface for Windows First and foremost, Apollo Solo USB is a premium 2 x 4 USB 3 desktop audio interface with best-in-class 24-bit/192 kHz conversion.
Apollo Solo USB Software Apollo Solo USB has several software components that are part the complete Apollo Solo USB system. A brief description of each component is provided below, along with a link to complete details about the component. Console Application The included Console application is Apollo Solo USB’s software interface. Console controls Apollo Solo USB’s input monitoring, Realtime UAD Processing, Unison technology, audio interface hardware settings, and more.
Realtime UAD Processing Apollo Solo USB can process UAD Powered Plug-Ins with sub-2ms latency, delivering the ultimate sonic experience while monitoring and/or tracking your performance. This feature is named Realtime UAD Processing. Realtime UAD Processing is a special function that is only available within Console.
UAD Meter & Control Panel Application The UAD Meter & Control Panel application is used to configure global UAD-2 system functions and monitor UAD-2 DSP resources (including multiple devices, if connected). The application also facilitates authorization of UAD plug-ins and UAD-2 devices. The application consists of two components: The UAD Meter, and the UAD Control Panels. To learn more, see UAD Meter & Control Panel.
UAD Control Panel with System Info panel selected UAD Powered Plug-Ins UAD plug-ins are the software titles containing audio signal processing algorithms such as compressors, equalizers, mic preamps, guitar amps, and special effects. Each UAD plug-in contains various control parameters that can be adjusted to achieve the desired sonic results.
Plug-In Host Applications UAD plug-ins are loaded within a host application (such as Apollo Solo USB’s Console or a DAW) for signal processing of the host’s audio signals on Apollo Solo USB’s integrated UAD-2 DSP accelerator. UAD plug-ins are typically used in Console for Realtime UAD Processing when monitoring and tracking, and in a DAW when mixing and mastering. UAD plug-ins are provided in VST and AAX 64 formats for compatibility with all major DAWs.
Apollo Audio Interfaces Apollo is Universal Audio’s line of high-resolution audio interfaces with class-leading sound quality, Realtime UAD Processing, and elegant hardware design and workflow. Apollo Solo USB can be combined with UAD-2 DSP Accelators to increase UAD DSP processing power as your system needs grow. Up to six UAD devices can connected in one system. See the UA Knowledge Base for specific details about multi-device compatibility for each UA model.
UA Account & Store UA Account Your Universal Audio account is where all your UAD devices, and their associated UAD plug‑ins, are registered and managed. An account is required to download UAD software, register and authorize your Apollo Solo USB hardware, claim bundled UAD plug-ins, and receive customer support. UA Store The Universal Audio online store is where optional UAD plug-in licenses are purchased and UA coupons are redeemed. For related information, see UA Account & Store.
Working With Apollo Solo USB Apollo Solo USB is a flexible audio interface and DSP accelerator that can be used in many ways. This chapter explains how to setup and use Apollo Solo USB and Console in digital audio environments. Each chapter section covers the area of functionality listed below. Click a blue page number to jump directly to the section for details. Tip: The Apollo Solo USB System Overview provides an introduction to the UAD environment.
Essential Apollo Solo USB Concepts Apollo Solo USB’s basic audio interface functionality with a DAW operates the same as other typical (non-DSP) interfaces. However, Apollo Solo USB has unique features in addition to those of a typical audio interface. To take advantage of Apollo Solo USB’s unique low-latency input monitoring, Realtime UAD Processing, and UAD-2 DSP accelerator features, there are some core differences in how to operate the DAW with Apollo Solo USB versus most audio interfaces.
I/O Buffering I/O buffering is the shuttling of audio data back and forth between the DAW and the audio interface. The DAW’s I/O buffer size setting determines the amount of input latency when software monitoring via the DAW. Smaller buffer sizes reduce latency, but increases CPU loading of the host computer. Lower buffer sizes do not increase UAD DSP loads.
Setting the DAW to use Apollo Solo USB I/O Apollo Solo USB’s ASIO device drivers enable the device to be used as the audio interface hardware for any compatible ASIO DAW. After the DAW is set to use Apollo Solo USB as the audio interface hardware device, the DAW can directly access and route the audio signals at Apollo Solo USB’s inputs and outputs.
Ableton Live 1. Open the Preferences window. 2. Select the Audio tab at left side of the Preferences window. 3. Select Universal Audio from the Audio Input Device and Audio Output Device drop menus. Live is now set to use Apollo Solo USB I/O. Apollo Solo USB selected as the audio input and output device in Ableton Live preferences Avid Pro Tools 1. Open the Setup > Playback Engine window. 2. Select Universal Audio from the Playback Engine drop menu. 3. Click OK.
Accessing Apollo Solo USB’s I/O in the DAW After Setting the DAW to use Apollo Solo USB I/O/O, the DAW can access and route all of Apollo Solo USB’s inputs and outputs directly. Selecting Apollo Solo USB’s Inputs and Outputs The methods for selecting channel inputs and outputs are different for each DAW. One example of how to choose I/O is shown below. For instructions, refer to the DAW documentation.
Apollo Solo USB I/O Driver Names Each Apollo Solo USB input and output has a channel number and name provided by the Apollo Solo USB drivers to ASIO. Depending on the DAW (see Numbers versus Names below), these channel numbers and/or names are used when selecting and displaying Apollo Solo USB I/O. I/O Numbers versus Names Apollo Solo USB’s drivers describe all I/O channels by name and number, but what is actually displayed depends on each particular DAW. Names are not displayed by all DAWs.
Input Monitoring with the DAW Input monitoring is the process of listening to live inputs, such as when an artist is performing with a musical instrument and/or vocals. When using Apollo Solo USB with a DAW, there are two ways to monitor inputs: Software Input Monitoring via DAW– The DAW’s software mixer is used to control input monitoring and plug-in processing. Inputs are subject to DAW I/O buffering latency.
Steinberg Cubase Auto Monitoring 1. Open the Preferences window. 2. Click VST in the left column of the Preferences window. 3. Select Manual from the Auto Monitoring drop menu.
Ableton Live Monitor Mode 1. In the View menu, ensure the Mixer and In/Out options are checked so you can see the monitoring buttons. If in Arrangement View, unfold and resize the track to see the In/Out section. 2. Click the Off button in the Monitor section within the In/Out options. The button is orange when software monitoring is disabled. Tip: If multiple tracks are selected, pressing an Off button applies the selection to all selected tracks.
How To Disable Hardware Input Monitoring To prevent doubled signals at Apollo Solo USB’s outputs when software input monitoring via the DAW, Apollo Solo USB’s hardware input monitoring feature via Console must be disabled. Note that Console input monitoring is enabled by default. 1. Open Console. 2. Mute input channels within Console by clicking the MUTE buttons so they are red. Tip: In Console, option-click any input MUTE switch to quickly toggle the mute state of all input channels.
Using Console with the DAW The primary function of Console is the low-latency monitoring of Apollo Solo USB’s inputs during live performance, either with or without Realtime UAD Processing. When used with a DAW, Console controls front-end monitor mixing and signal processing, replacing the DAW’s software monitoring functions. Important Fundamental Concept: The primary function of Console is to control Apollo Solo USB’s low-latency hardware input monitoring, Unison plug-ins, and Realtime UAD Processing.
The Console Recall plug-in also features Console monitor controls, enabling adjustments of level, mono, and mute without leaving the DAW. For details, see Console Recall Plug-In. Routing and Recording Console I/O Recording Console Inputs To record any Console input (physical or virtual), select the Console channel as the source for the DAW’s audio channel(s). See Accessing Apollo Solo USB’s I/O in the DAW for an example.
UAD Plug-Ins: Console versus DAW There are important fundamental differences between using UAD plug-ins within Console versus within a DAW. Apollo Solo USB features two distinct methods for using UAD plug-ins: Console processing (Realtime) – Low-latency hardware input monitoring and recording with Realtime UAD Processing via UAD plug-ins that are loaded within Console. DAW processing (Buffered) – DSP-accelerated processing via UAD plug‑ins in VST or AAX 64 formats that are loaded within a DAW.
UAD Processing in DAW (Buffered) When UAD plug-ins are used within compatible VST or AAX 64 host DAW applications (i.e., outside of Console), monitored input signals are subject to I/O buffering latency because the data must be shuttled back and forth between the DAW and the audio interface. The amount of input latency depends on the I/O buffer size setting (including when plugins are not used, UAD or otherwise). As the buffer size is increased, more input latency is induced.
Virtual I/O Apollo Solo USB’s device drivers carry various virtual (software only) input and output channels in addition to its physical hardware inputs and outputs. Virtual I/O enables digital routing of DAW signals back and forth between Console. The virtual channels consist of Console’s virtual inputs, Console’s virtual outputs, and all of Console’s MON, HP, and AUX mix bus outputs.
Routing DAW Outputs to Console Inputs To route a DAW output signal into Console for monitoring and/ Realtime UAD Processing, assign any Console virtual channel (or channel pair, when the DAW source is stereo) as the output device for any DAW track, bus, or output. That DAW output signal then appears in the associated virtual input channel(s) in Console, and it can be processed or routed the same as Apollo Solo USB’s hardware inputs.
Virtual I/O Examples Adjust DAW Levels Within Console By default, the DAW’s main stereo outputs (the playback mix) is routed to Apollo Solo USB’s main outputs and blended with Console’s inputs, and the DAW playback level is adjusted with the DAW’s outputs controls. By digitally routing the DAW playback mix into Console’s virtual input(s) with Virtual I/O, the DAW playback level can be adjusted with Console’s virtual input faders.
Using Apollo Solo USB for System Sound I/O Apollo Solo USB’s I/O can be used for the computer’s system sound audio. System sound audio I/O is used by music players, web browsers, system software alert sounds, and similar applications — essentially, any audio application that doesn’t access Apollo Solo USB’s ASIO drivers directly. If an audio application doesn’t have its own setting for accessing an I/O device directly, it uses the device specified within the Sound control panel in the operating system.
Setting System Sound I/O To use Apollo Solo USB I/O for system sound: 1. Open Windows Control Panel > Sounds. 2. In the Playback tab, select Universal Audio WDM. Click Apply, then click Set Default. 3. In the Recording tab, select Universal Audio WDM. Click Apply, then click Set Default. Important: See Windows WDM System Sound Notes for important information when using Apollo Solo USB for system sound I/O.
Windows WDM System Sound Notes Windows WDM system audio is used for audio input and playback in media players, web browsers, audio conference, and similar programs. To ensure proper audio system functionality, follow these guidelines when using Apollo Solo USB as the input and/or output device for Windows WDM system audio. • • • • Disable system notification sounds. Turn off all Windows system alert sounds using the procedure detailed on the previous page. ASIO and WDM sample rates must match.
Console Overview What is Console? The included Console application is the companion software interface for the Apollo Solo USB audio interface hardware. Console’s analog-style workflow is designed to provide quick access to the most commonly needed features in a familiar, easy-to-use application. Console’s function is to control the Apollo Solo USB hardware unit and its digital mixing and low-latency monitoring capabilities.
Console Functions Console enables the following functionality when used with Apollo Solo USB: • • • • • • • Hardware control. All of Apollo Solo USB’s front panel hardware controls (except headphone volume) can be software controlled using Console, facilitating easy hardware manipulation even if Apollo Solo USB is placed out of reach of the computer operator. Low-latency monitoring.
When To Use Console Console can be used without a DAW, simultaneously in conjunction with a DAW, or not at all. These scenarios are covered in greater detail in Working With Apollo Solo USB. Note: Console processing is always active, even after the application is quit. Console can be launched or quit at any time, whether or not a DAW is already running. Console without DAW. Console can be used by itself without the use of a DAW or any other audio software.
Accessing Console Any of the methods below can be used to open the Console application. • • Access the program from the Windows Start Menu Right-click the blue UA diamond logo in the Windows System Tray (in taskbar at lower right of screen), then select Console from its contextual menu 3. Click 2. Right-click 1.
Console Layout Console’s visual and control elements are grouped according to functionality, with a layout similar to that found on typical analog mixers. These groups are illustrated below. Detailed explanations of all the Console control functions are similarly grouped and presented later in the Console Reference chapter.
Dynamic Window Size The size of Console’s window can be dynamically adjusted to fit any workspace. To adjust the window size, click+drag any corner or edge of the window. Width Reducing the Console window width may reduce the number of visible input channels. Use the Bank Bar in the Meter Bridge to view input channels that may be currently out of view.
Global Window Elements Some visual and control elements are always displayed in the Console window, while others depend on the current selection(s) in the View Column and Monitor Column, as illustrated below. An brief overview of each global element is provided in this chapter. Detailed descriptions of all functions are provided in a later chapter.
Meter Bridge Overview The Meter Bridge (illustrated below) is always visible at the top of the Console window. It displays all non-hidden input channels (those that are not hidden with the Show/Hide Inputs feature), signal activity at these inputs, and the Bank Bar, which is used to scroll inputs that are out of horizontal view. For detailed descriptions of all Meter Bridge elements, see Meter Bridge.
Info Bar Overview The Info Bar (illustrated below) is always visible at the bottom of the Console window. It displays and provides access to several important functions. Note: For detailed descriptions, see Info Bar. Console Tempo Display & Menu Clock Source Display & Menu Sample Rate Display & Menu UAD Resource Gauges (Display only) Info Bar elements Tempo Console’s current tempo is displayed here in beats per minute (BPM).
Current Bank Overview An important navigational concept in Console is the Current Bank. The Current Bank is all input channels that are currently visible in the main body of the Console window (below the Meter Bridge) as shown in the illustration below. Sliding the gray Bank Bar changes the Current Bank so the other inputs can be seen. Note: The Bank Bar only appears when the Console window is too narrow to display all input channels.
View Column Overview The View Column (illustrated at right) is always visible at the left side of the Console window. The View Column contains the Application Menu, View selectors, View Options, Clear switches, and Settings switch, as shown at right. Application Menus (global) For detailed descriptions, see View Column. View Selectors (global) Views Four Views are available in Console: Overview, Inputs, Inserts, and Sends.
View Elements Each View displays related elements and associated functionality in input channel strips within the main area of the Console window. Note: The main monitor mix controls (input labels, faders, solo, mute, pan) are the same in all views unless specifically hidden in Sends view. The channel input elements of each view are shown below. Complete details for all elements are described in Console Reference.
Monitor Column Overview The Monitor Column (illustrated at right) is always visible at the right side of the Console window. The Monitor Column contains elements related to monitor outputs, cue (HP) outputs, insert effect printing, and session file management. For detailed descriptions, see Monitor Column. Monitor Meters Monitor Meters These meters display the signal levels of the monitor mix bus just before the monitor level control.
Channel Strips Overview Each Console input channel strip (illustrated at right) controls a corresponding Apollo Solo USB input. The output of all Console channel input strips are always routed to Console’s monitor outputs (except when muted). Preamp Controls & Unison Insert Console’s input channel strips are essentially the same for all inputs, however there are some differences among the analog and virtual inputs, as noted below. Note: For detailed descriptions, see Channel Input Controls.
Console Plug-In Inserts Overview The UAD plug-in inserts within each input and auxiliary strip is where UAD Powered Plug-Ins are selected and used for Realtime UAD Processing within Console. Both of Apollo Solo USB’s analog preamp inputs have a special dedicated Unison insert in addition to four standard inserts. Both virtual inputs, and both auxiliary returns, also have four standard inserts each.
Insert Effects Overview The Insert Effects settings are used to specify whether or not Realtime UAD Processing in Console is recorded (printed) in the DAW. • • Console inputs are recorded with processing (wet) when Insert Effects is enabled. The UAD-processed signals are heard and recorded. Console inputs are recorded without processing (dry) when Insert Effects are disabled. The UAD-processed signals are heard, but not recorded.
Popover Windows Some Console functions that are not visible in the main window are accessed in popover windows. Popovers are a special type of window that automatically close when any area outside of the popover is clicked. Note: The size of popover windows cannot be adjusted. Typical popover window — in this example, the rename/link popover To close any popover, click anywhere outside of the popover, press the X button at upper right of the window, or type the esc (escape) key on the computer’s keyboard.
HP Cue Overview A cue mix bus is used to create a unique mix that is separate from the main monitor mix. Cues are typically used for performers that want to hear a headphone mix that is different from the main monitor mix (“more me”), sending separate mixes to other rooms or audio equipment, and similar applications. In addition to the main monitor stereo mix bus and the two auxiliary stereo mix buses, Apollo Solo USB features one stereo cue mix bus that can be routed to the headphones or a DAW.
Sends Overview Apollo Solo USB has four stereo mix buses that are configured and adjusted within Console: Monitor, auxiliary 1, auxiliary 2, and HP cue. Each Apollo Solo USB input has independent level, pan, and mute controls for each of the stereo mix buses. These controls are used to “send” signals into the mix bus.
Sends Access The Sends can be accessed and adjusted in the Overview and Sends views. Note: Sends are not visible in the Inputs and Inserts views. Overview View An overview of an input’s sends state is shown in each input channel strip, as shown below. Clicking this overview opens the Sends Popover, where the send levels can be adjusted. If the Console window is vertically re-sized tall enough, individual send knobs appear in place of the sends overview.
Sends View A single send is displayed for all channels simultaneously in Sends View. The displayed send is selected with the SHOW switches in the View column. Sends view offers longthrow faders for finer control resolution. Tip: To increase the Send control’s resolution when in Sends view, increase the vertical size of the Console window and/or deactivate the MIX switch within the View column’s SHOW area. In Sends view, the same send is visible on all inputs.
Console Sessions Overview The controls within the Sessions Manager popover provide methods for managing complete Console configurations as session preset files. When a Console session file is saved, the current Console configuration is written to disk. When a session file is subsequently reloaded, Console is returned to the exact same configuration state, regardless of any changes to Console that were made in the interim.
Console Settings Overview Global parameters for Apollo Solo USB and Console are configured in the separate Console Settings Window. Note: For complete details, see Console Sessions. Console Settings Panels Controls within the Console Settings window are arranged according to related functions. Each set of related controls are contained within a single panel.
Multiple Undo/Redo Console supports multiple levels of Undo and Redo for all edit operations. Undo and Redo operations can be performed repeatedly to step backwards and forwards through edit operations as long as the current session is open. • • To step backwards and undo (revert) edit operations, choose Undo from the Edit Menu or type command-z. To step forwards and re-execute the edit, choose Redo from the Edit Menu or type command-shift-z. Undo/Redo Cache Edits are stored in the Undo/Redo cache.
Keyboard Focus & Control Many Console functions can be controlled without using a mouse. When elements on the screen have keyboard focus, they can be quickly navigated with the computer’s QWERTY keyboard. Focus Indication Keyboard focus in Console is indicated by a orange-colored highlight box outlining the screen elements that are targeted for keyboard control. Focus Navigation Focus between elements can be changed with the computer’s TAB key, or by clicking another area of the screen with the mouse.
Adjusting Console Controls Console uses typical software control techniques to adjust parameters. 2-state switches: Click to toggle the state. Knobs: Click+drag to adjust, or use the Controls Shortcuts. Console’s rotary controls (and UAD plug-in knobs) can respond to Linear, Circular, or Relative Circular adjustments modes. The CONTROL MODES preference is set in DISPLAY panel within the Console Settings window. Faders: Click+drag to adjust, or use the Controls Shortcuts.
Keyboard Shortcuts Console supports the keyboard shortcuts listed in the table below. Shortcut Name Keyboard Command Description New Session Ctrl+N Create a new default session Open Session Ctrl+O Load an existing session file from disk Save Session Ctrl+S Save current session file to disk Save Session As...
Console Reference This chapter provides in-depth descriptions of all controls within Console. For a general operational overview, see Console Overview. Meter Bridge The Meter Bridge is always visible at the top of the Console window. It displays all visible input channels, signal activity at these inputs, and the Bank Bar, which is used to scroll inputs that are out of horizontal view (if any). Refer to the diagram below for descriptions in this section.
Bank Bar When the Console window does not have enough available horizontal space to display all available input channels, the gray Bank Bar appears within the Meter Bridge. The Bank Bar “floats” on top of all input channels in the Meter Bridge. The Bank Bar is used to change the channels that are visible within the Current Bank. Note: The Bank Bar only appears when the Console window is too narrow to display all input channels.
Meter Bridge Menu The Meter Bridge menu provides access to various functions related to the Meter Bridge. To view the menu, right-click or control-click within the Meter Bridge. Show/Hide Device Names – See Show Device Names. Show/Hide Offline Devices – By default, devices in the Hardware panel within the Console Settings window that are not currently connected are displayed in the Meter Bridge. To show/hide offline devices, choose this item from the menu.
View Column Note: For an overview of Console’s View Columns, see the View Column Overview. The View Column is always visible at the left side of the Console window. The View Column contains the View Selectors and switches for the View Options (functions) available within each view. Each View Column also contains several common view elements that are available in every View.
Global View Column Controls Several controls appear in all View Columns. These controls (detailed below) have identical functionality in all Views. Menu Switch The MENU switch is located at the top of the View Column. Clicking the switch reveals the Application Menus, where various Console functions can be accessed. Default Switch When Option Latch is active with the parameters DEFAULT switch, clicking any control returns the parameter to its default value.
Modifiers Overview The View Column Options in each View Column enable various operations to be performed on the items within the View. View Option operations are performed by selecting an option to latch the function, executing the operation(s) using Modifiers, then exiting the latched function. Option Latch When a View Option switch is clicked, the switch flashes yellow, indicating that the function is latched and ready to be executed using the Modifiers.
View Options The individual View Column Options are detailed in this section. See the Modifiers Overview for details about how to operate the Modifier controls. Overview, Inputs, & Inserts View Options The View Options for the Overview, Inputs, and Inserts Views are identical. Each option is described below. Note: In the Overview View Column, the Power, Remove, Copy, and Isolate modifiers may not be visible if the Console window size is vertically condensed.
Remove Modifier This option deletes the plug-in from the insert slot. When the REMOVE switch is latched, click any insert’s modifier to delete the plug-in, or swipe across multiple modifiers. The REMOVE modifier when latched. Plug-ins are removed by clicking/swiping its modifier. Note: Because this function unloads the plug-in from the DSP, audio artifacts can occur if a plug-in is removed while audio is being processed by the plug-in.
Paste Modifier After any insert is copied, the COPY switch changes to PASTE. The copied data can be pasted to multiple destinations while the paste option remains latched. Paste Individual Plug-In After an insert is copied, click or swipe across one or more destinations while the paste switch is latched.
Sends View Options All View Options within Sends View are described below. See the Sends Overview for related information. View Options Sends View Options Available Sends Two SHOW AUX switches and one SHOW HP cue switch are always visible, reflecting Apollo Solo USB’s available mix buses that a channel’s signal can be routed to using the send controls.
Show Sends In Sends View, all mix controls for a single send mix bus, and/or the monitor mix bus, are displayed for all Console inputs simultaneously (see screenshots below). Note: Only one send mix can be displayed at a time (the SHOW SEND switches are mutually exclusive). The displayed mixes are determined by the state of the send and monitor SHOW switches in the Sends View column. The mix is visible when its switch is engaged (lit).
Show All Sends Option All sends can be viewed simultaneously by holding the Windows key on the computer keyboard while clicking any smaller SHOW switch in Sends View. All sends are visible when a SHOW switch is option-clicked Sends COPY TO Modifier This switch instantly copies the current monitor mix to the send mix that is currently selected with the Available Sends switches.
Info Bar The Info Bar is always visible at the bottom of the Console window. It displays and provides access to several important functions. The Tempo controls are only available in the Info Bar. The Sample Rate and Clock Source controls are also available in the Console Settings window. The UAD Resource Gauges have no controls; they are visual indicators only. Refer to the diagram below for descriptions in this section.
Tempo Popover To display the Tempo popover, click anywhere in the Tempo Display within the Info Bar. The available tempo range is from 1.00 BPM to 999.00 BPM. The default tempo of a new session is 120 BPM. Adjusting Tempo Text Entry 1. Open the Tempo window by clicking the Tempo Display in the Info Bar 2. Click the tempo text field, then type a numeric tempo value 3.
Sample Rate Display This area displays the current sample rate used for Apollo Solo USB’s A/D-D/A conversion and UAD Powered Plug-Ins processing. When using UAD Powered Plug-Ins, higher sample rates require more UAD DSP resources. Sample Rate Menu Clicking the Sample Rate Display presents the Sample Rate Menu, where the current sample rate can be changed. Important: When a DAW is used with Apollo Solo USB, the sample rate is typically changed within the DAW’s settings.
Channel Input Controls Note: For related information, see the Channel Strips Overview. Preamp Controls Console’s preamp controls correspond to the equivalent preamp controls on Apollo Solo USB’s top panel. Adjusting Apollo Solo USB’s top panel will update Console (and vice versa); see Interactions Between Console and Apollo Solo USBo Solo USB for details.
Preamp Gain The channel’s preamp gain is adjusted with this knob. The input to be adjusted (Mic, Line, or Hi-Z) is determined by the state of the channel’s Mic/Line switch or the Hi-Z input (if connected). Rotating the knob clockwise increases preamp gain for the channel. The available gain range for all preamp channels is 10 dB to 65 dB for the Mic, Line, and Hi-Z inputs. Gain Value The specific amount of preamp gain in decibels is displayed in gray text near the gain control.
48V When enabled, the 48V switch is red and 48 volts of phantom power is supplied to the Apollo Solo USB channel’s rear panel Mic input. Most modern condenser microphones require 48V phantom power to operate. This option can only be activated when the Mic/Line switch is set to Mic. Caution: Activate 48V only with compatible equipment such as phantom powered microphones. Incompatible equipment can be damaged by the applied voltage.
Sends Popover The Sends popover window is where all available sends for an individual channel can be adjusted. To access the Sends window, click the Sends display when Overview is active. See the Sends Overview for related information. Console Input Name Previous/Next Channel Close Popover Bus Name & Color Send Pan Send Mute Send Level& Meter Sends popover Sends Popover Window Descriptions Input Name – The name of the Apollo Solo USB input is displayed as the window’s title.
Monitor Mix Controls The monitor mix controls within the input channel strips are for adjusting the signals at Apollo Solo USB’s monitor outputs. Note: Refer to the illustration at right for descriptions in this section. Input Pan Input Solo Input Mute Input Pan This control adjusts the input’s position in the stereo panorama of the monitor mix bus.
Input Mute Mute prevents the input channel’s signal from being routed to the monitor mix bus (and aux buses that are in POST mode), but not the HP cue mix bus. Click the button to toggle the mute state. The channel is muted when its mute switch is highlighted in red. Tip: Option-click the mute button to toggle mute on all input channels.
Input Meter The input meter always displays the signal level of the channel after UAD plug-in processing in the inserts. Depending on the state of the METERING option in the Display panel within the Console Settings window, (either pre-fader or post-fader), this meter will display the level going into the monitor mix bus (postfader/post-inserts), or the level at the channel’s hardware input (pre-fader/post inserts).
Rename/Link Popover The Rename/Link popover window is used for customizing input labels and stereo linking adjacent channels. Console Input Name Previous/Next Channel Close Popover Rename Field Stereo Link Switch Rename/Link popover Input Label By default, the name of the Apollo Solo USB hardware input is displayed beneath the channel’s fader and meter. The input labels can be customized for convenient input identification.
Input label Notes • • • • • To identify the hardware input when an input name is customized, click the input label. The hardware input name appears at the top of the Rename/Link popover. Input labels are stored in Console session files and the Console Recall plug-in. Auxiliary return labels cannot be customized. Custom input labels are visible within Console only. Input labels are not displayed within a DAW. Show/Hide Inputs Console can hide any input channel strip from view.
Stereo Link Adjacent channels (analog 1+2, virtual 1+2) can be linked to create a stereo input pair. When linked as a stereo pair, any control adjustments will affect both channels of the stereo signal identically. Note: Only the same type of inputs can be linked (Mic+Mic or Line+Line), and the Hi-Z inputs cannot be linked. Activation Stereo pairs are created by activating LINK within the Rename/Link Popover.
Aux Returns Aux Overview Console has two stereo aux (auxiliary) mix buses. Signals are sent to the aux buses via the aux sends in Console’s channel input strips. Console’s aux returns are used to control and process the signals that are received from those sends. The controls in Console’s aux return strips are similar to the channel input strips, but instead of controlling a channel input, they control the output of the aux mix bus.
Aux Return Strips Both of Console’s aux return strips are identical. Most of the controls have identical functionality as their equivalent control in the channel input strips. Refer to the diagram at right for descriptions in this section. Aux Inserts Aux Inserts The aux inserts are operated using the same methods as the insert controls in the channel input strips. See Console Plug-In Inserts for complete descriptions of the aux insert controls.
Aux Mono This switch sums the left and right channels of the stereo aux mix bus output into a monophonic signal. The aux return output is stereo when the button is gray and mono when the button is lit. Aux Mute The aux mute switch stops the aux return’s signal from being routed to the monitor mix. The aux return output is active when the button is gray and muted when the button is lit. Note: Aux mute does not mute the aux’s HP cue send.
Monitor Column The Monitor Column is always visible at the right side of the Console window. The Monitor Column contains elements related to monitor outputs, cue outputs, insert effect printing, and session file management. Refer to the illustration at right for descriptions in this section. Note: Settings in the Monitor Column are global functions. They are not saved with individual Console sessions files. Monitor Meters Monitor Meters These meters display the levels of Apollo Solo USB’s monitor mix bus.
Global Insert Effects These buttons globally switch all Console inserts to either pass all UAD insert effect processing to the DAW (print wet) or not (monitor wet but print dry). See the Insert Effects Overview additional details. Insert Effects can also be individually switched on a per-channel basis (see Channel Insert Effects). The Global Insert Effects switches override all the individual Channel Insert Effects settings.
Cue Outputs Menu Clicking this switch opens the CUE OUTPUTS popover where the headphone output source (either the MON mix or the HP mix) is selected. For complete details, see Cue Outputs Popover. Monitor Output Options The Mono and Mute options are controlled with the switches in the OUTPUT section. Monitor Mono This switch sums the left and right channels of the stereo monitor mix into a monophonic signal. The monitor output is stereo when the button is gray and mono when the button is lit.
Monitor Level Indicator In addition to indicating the relative signal level of the monitor outputs, the state of other functions is indicated by the color of the ring around the monitor level control: Green – The main monitor outputs are active with variable level control (normal) Red – The main monitor outputs are muted Blinking – The monitor DIM and/or MONO functions are active Monitor level indications (from left to right): Normal, Mute, and DIM/MONO Monitor Dot When the Monitor Level function is activ
Cue Outputs Popover Note: For an overview of Apollo Solo USB’s HP cue mix bus, see HP Cue Overview. The Cue Outputs popover window is where the source signal (either the main monitor mix or the HP cue mix) for Apollo Solo USB’s front panel headphone jack is selected. To access the Cue Outputs Popover, click the CUE OUTPUTS button in the Monitor Column.
HP When set to HP, the headphone output source is the dedicated HP cue mix, summed with all DAW outputs that are routed to the HP outputs (if applicable). In this mode, the mix of the HP cue bus is determined by the cue send controls in the input channel strips and the aux return strips. Console’s main monitor mix faders, mutes, and solos are not reflected in the headphone output when HP is selected, because Console’s HP cue sends are always pre-fader.
Control Room Column The control room column is where various options for the monitor outputs are configured and selected. Show Column By default, the control room column is not visible. To show the column, enable the CTRL ROOM switch in the SHOW section of the monitor column. DIM Amount DIM Value Show CTRL ROOM switch in monitor column DIM Enable DIM Controls DIM is used to quickly reduce the listening volume in the control room by a set amount and quickly return to the prior volume.
MIX When MIX is selected, the main monitor mix, summed with any DAW outputs assigned monitor outputs (if applicable), is routed to the monitor outputs. HP When HP is selected, the HP cue mix, summed with any DAW outputs assigned to the respective HP or LINE 3/4 outputs (if applicable), is routed to the monitor outputs. HP INACTIVE Dialog HP can be selected as a monitor source only if the HP source in the Cue Outputs Popover is not set to MIX.
Console Sessions The Sessions controls provide methods for managing complete Console configurations as session preset files. When a Console session file is saved, the current Console configuration is written to disk. When a session file is subsequently reloaded, Console is returned to the exact same configuration state, regardless of any changes to Console that were made in the interim. Content of Session Files Console session files contain most, but not all, Console settings.
Session Files Access Session files can be saved and loaded via several methods: The Modified Session Dialog, the File menu in the Application Menus, and/or the Sessions Menu. Session Name Session names are displayed in the Meter Bridge at the top of the main Console window (“My Session” in the screenshot at right), below the word SESSIONS within the Settings Switch, and at the top of the Sessions Manager window.
Sessions Manager Popover The Sessions Manager popover window is where Console session preset files are managed. The Sessions Manager window contains the SESSION and SUB-FOLDER columns and several function switches. The columns and switches are used to navigate and manage the session files. Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section.
Sessions Manager Contents Session folder contents can be organized via the OS file system. File locations in the OS are reflected within the Sessions Manager. Note: Reorganizing session files within subfolders can only be performed within the OS file system. SESSION Column All items within the Default Session Files Location are displayed in the SESSION column. If more sessions or folders reside in the column than are currently within view, a scroll bar appears.
Load – Loads the session that is currently selected within the Presets Manager window (a session is selected when highlighted in blue). Tip: A session can also be loaded by double-clicking the session or typing Return (or Enter) when the session is selected. Sessions Menu The Sessions Menu provides quick access to sessions functions without opening the Sessions Manager. Click any item in the menu to perform the function. Items in the menu are divided into three sections.
Display Sessions Menu To access the Sessions Menu, right-click the Sessions Switch located at the bottom of the Monitor Column, as shown at right. When the menu is displayed, clicking an item in the menu chooses that item. Session File Functions The New, Open, Save, and Save As functions listed here have the same functionality as the Sessions Manager Function Switches.
Window Title Bar The Window Title Bar is the topmost strip in the Console and Console Settings windows, as shown below. The Window Title Bar Window Name – In the main Console window, the current session filename is displayed in the title bar. If the session has not yet been saved to disk, “Console” is displayed here. Close – Clicking the “x” button closes the Console or Console Sessions window. If the window is the last open window in the application, Console is quit.
Application Menus Various Console functions can be accessed from the Application Menus. Selecting an item from the drop menus performs the function. Console’s Application Menus Tip: Many menu functions can also be accessed using the Keyboard Shortcuts shown next to the item in the menu. Menu Button The Menu button displays the application menus. The button is located at the upper left of the main Console window, at the top of every View Column.
Save If a session file was previously saved, selecting this option writes the current settings to the file with the same name, overwriting the previously saved file. If the current session has never been saved, the operating system’s standard “Save File” dialog appears so a new session file can be named and saved to disk. Save As... This option opens the operating system’s standard “Save File” dialog so the current session can be named and saved to disk as a new session file.
Remove/Enable/Disable Sub-Menu Plug-Ins – The function is performed on all Console plug-ins. Insert Plug-Ins – The function is performed on all channel insert plugins. Aux and Unison plug-ins remain inserted. Aux Plug-Ins– The function is performed on all auxiliary plug-ins. Channel and Unison plug-ins remain inserted. Unison Plug-Ins– The function is performed on all Unison plug-ins. Channel and aux plug-ins remain inserted.
Show Plug-In Editor Windows Brings all open UAD plug-in editor windows to the foreground (if any). If ALWAYS ON TOP in the Display panel within the Console Settings window is set to PLUG-INS, this function has no effect (plug-in editors are always in the foreground in this mode). Note: This function applies only to UAD plug-ins inserted in Console, not those inserted in a DAW. Close All Plug-In Editor Windows Closes all open UAD plug-in editor windows (if any).
Console Plug-In Inserts The UAD plug-in inserts within each input and auxiliary strip in Console is where UAD Powered Plug-Ins are selected and used for Realtime UAD Processing. Both of Apollo Solo USB’s analog preamp input channels have a dedicated Unison insert in addition to four standard inserts. Both virtual inputs, and both auxiliary returns, also have four standard inserts each.
Inserts Signal Flow Audio signals in a Console channel flow through the inserts serially from top to bottom. Therefore, if more than one plug-in is inserted in a channel, the location of a plug-in within the inserts processing chain can impact the sound of the channel. Tip: Console plug-ins can be reordered to change the serial signal processing order by dragging them to a different insert.
Inserts Display The inserts display shows the name of currently loaded plug-ins (if any) and their active states. An abbreviated name may be shown for longer plug-in names due to space constraints. In expanded views, an icon representing the plug-in is also displayed. Refer to the illustration below for element descriptions in this section.
Insert State Indicators The state of a loaded plug-in within each insert can be determined by the background color of the slot. These states are defined below. Active (dark gray) – The plug-in is active and processing audio. The Studer A800 plug-in insert at right indicates this state. Disabled (light gray) – The plug-in has been disabled via the power switch in the header of the plug-in edit window (or via the disable function in the insert options menu).
Insert Options Menu To display the Insert Options menu, right-click (or control+click) any insert. The options available in the menu vary depending on the state of the insert (e.g., empty or loaded) and contents of the copy/paste clipboard. Each insert option is described below. The menu has two sections under blue headings: Plug-in options that apply to the individual insert, and Channel options that apply to all inserts in the Console strip.
Channel Insert Effects Note: See the Insert Effects Overview for details about the REC/MON functions. Channel Insert Effects Switch This switch determines whether or not Realtime UAD Processing occurring within an individual Console input is routed to its associated DAW input. Tip: Insert Effects can be switched for all channels simultaneously with the Global Insert Effects switch.
Plug-In Editor Window Clicking any insert that contains a plug-in opens the editor window, where UAD plug-in parameters can be adjusted and/or plug-in presets are managed. Multiple editor windows can be open simultaneously. By default, each opened editor window is offset so one window doesn’t completely cover another. Tip: To open each editor window at the same screen location, shift+click the insert. Refer to the illustration below for element descriptions in this section.
Function Switches The function switches are located between the title bar and the plug-in controls. Channel Strip Enable/Disable This switch engages Channel Strip mode, where all UAD plug-ins within the channel inserts can be controlled within a single window. For details, see Channel Strips. Insert Select/Assign Menu This switch presents the Select/Assign drop menu, where a different insert within the channel can be selected for editing, or a different plugin can be assigned to the current insert.
Copy Plug-In Settings This switch copies the parameter settings of the plug-in to the clipboard so they can be pasted into another instance of the same plug-in. Paste Plug-In Settings This switch pastes plug-in parameter settings, that were previously copied to the clipboard, into the current plug-in. If the switch is unavailable (gray), no settings are available in the clipboard or the plug-in title is different. Note: Copied plug-in settings can only be pasted into the same plug-in title.
Channel Strips Channel Strips are where all UAD plug-ins within a channel’s four standard inserts can be displayed and controlled within a single editor window. Note: Unison plug-in editors in preamp channels are not included within Channel Strips. However, Unison plug-ins and their settings are stored within Channel Strip Presets.
Channel Strip Presets A Channel Strip preset contains all settings for all plug-ins within the channel strip. Channel strips presets are saved and/or loaded via the Presets Manager. Note: Channel Strip presets include all standard insert plug-ins, and the Unison plug-in (if applicable), within an individual Console channel strip.
Presets Manager The Presets Manager is where individual UAD plug-in settings and Channel Strip settings are managed after a plug-in is inserted. Preset tasks are performed in the Presets Manager popovers, which are accessed from within the Plug-In Editor Window. Presets Manager popovers Presets Overview A preset is a complete collection of settings for an individual plug-in that is saved as a disk file so the settings can be subsequently recalled.
Presets Folder Location All factory and user preset files for UAD plug-ins are stored at the following location within the operating system: C:\Program Files (x86)\Universal Audio\Powered Plugins\Presets Tip: User presets and folders can be organized via the operating system’s file manager (i.e., Windows Explorer). File locations in the operating system are reflected within the Presets Manager. Plug-In’s Presets Folder Inside the Presets folder above are folders named with the title of each UAD plug-in.
Channel Strip Presets A Channel Strip preset is a complete collection of plug-ins within a single channel, and all parameter settings within those plug-ins, that is saved as a disk file so the channel strip preset can be subsequently recalled into the same or a different channel. Channel strip preset files have the “.uadchannel” suffix. Tip: To activate Channel Strip view, click the Channel Strip icon in the Edit Window. Channel Strip mode is active when the switch is orange colored.
Presets Manager Popover The Presets Manager popover window contains the PRESET and SUB-FOLDER columns and several function switches. The columns and switches are used to navigate and manage the preset files. Tip: Plug-in settings are loaded instantly as they are selected in the columns so you can quickly audition presets while the popover is open. Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section.
SUB-FOLDER Column If the PRESET column contains one or more folders, selecting the folder will display its contents in the SUB-FOLDER column. Click any preset in the SUB-FOLDER column to instantly load it. If more presets reside in the column than are currently within view, a scroll bar appears. Presets Manager Function Buttons The Presets Manager contains switches to save, name, and perform other file management tasks. Click a switch to perform the operation on the selected (blue) preset or sub-folder.
Save Preset Popover The Save Preset popover window is where presets and sub-folders can be named and moved. It appears when the Save or Move switches within the Presets Manager window are clicked. Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section.
Console Settings Console Settings Overview Global parameters for Apollo Solo USB and Console are configured in the Console Settings window. All Console Settings are detailed in this chapter.
Console Settings Panels Controls within the Console Settings window are arranged according to related functionality. Each set of related settings are contained within a single panel.
Hardware Settings Panel The Hardware panel is where Apollo Solo USB’s system-level audio interface I/O settings such as sample rate and output reference levels are configured. These settings are used by DAW applications when they are configured to use Apollo Solo USB as the audio interface. Even when Console is not open, these settings are stored by the Apollo Solo USB drivers for use by other host applications.
Buffer Size This setting determines the hardware I/O buffer size used by a DAW. As values are decreased, DAW throughput latency decreases, but the computer’s CPU load increases. Conversely, as I/O buffer size values are increased, DAW throughput latency increases, and the computer’s CPU load is reduced. For related information, see Latency Basics. Available buffer size values are dependent on the current Sample Rate value.
Input Delay Compensation Input Delay Compensation maintains phase alignment across Console’s analog and digital inputs when certain UAD plug-ins are used. See Input Delay Compensation in Console for a complete explanation of this feature. When enabling Input Delay Compensation, it’s usually best to start with the Short value (100 samples) to minimize latency. The default value is Medium.
Device Letter Each unit in the Devices list is designated with a sequential letter. These letters are used when multi-unit cascading to differentiate between Apollo devices. The device letters cannot be modified. Device Color Each unit in the Devices list is color coded for enhanced identification. These colors are used in the Meter Bridge when multi-unit cascading to differentiate between devices. The device colors cannot be modified.
Device Name Apollo Solo USB’s default device name can be changed. The device name is displayed in the “Connecting to Apollo Solo USB” window that appears briefly during system connection and optionally in the Meter Bridge. Note: Text in this field cannot be modified when the device is offline. Identify Clicking the Identify switch will cause the currently selected unit’s front panel LEDs to flash in a pattern.
Display Panel Various Console display options are set within the Display panel. Display panel Metering Note: The Metering Menu affects the Channel Meters of Console’s channel inputs only. It does not affect the Aux Meters or the Monitor Meters, or the level of signals being routed to the DAW. Pre-Fader When set to pre-fader, an input’s Channel Meter indicates the level at the Apollo Solo USB input, regardless of the Channel Fader setting.
Clip/Peak Hold Tip: The Clip and Peak indicators can be cleared at any time with the CLEAR CLIPS button. Clip Hold Time This drop menu sets how long the red signal clip indicators in the input, send, and monitor meters are displayed before turning off. The available values are None, 1 second, 3 seconds (default), 5 seconds, 10 seconds, or Infinite. Peak Hold Time This drop menu sets how long the signal peak indicators in the input and send meters are displayed before turning off.
Plug-Ins Panel Various UAD plug-in options are set within the Display panel. Plug-Ins panel Controls Mode This setting determines how UAD plug-in parameter knobs respond to adjustment. Three control modes are offered: Circular, Relative Circular, and Linear. The behavior of each mode is described below. Tip: This setting is also available in the Configuration panel within the UAD Meter & Control Panel application.
Relative Circular (grab) – Relative Circular mode operates similar to Circular mode, but the knob value does not jump to the mouse position when clicked. Instead, the knob value is modified relative to its original value. In Relative Circular mode, click anywhere on the knob to make an adjustment originating at the original value (it’s not necessary to click on the current knob position).
MIDI Panel Console supports the ability to use MIDI to remotely set the tempo used for the Tempo Sync feature. The MIDI panel is where the specific MIDI controls are set. MIDI data is received by Console via the operating system. MIDI panel MIDI Device Sets the MIDI device to be used as the source for MIDI control. To set the device, click the MIDI DEVICE menu and choose a new device from the drop menu. Note: Only devices configured in the operating system are available for selection in this menu.
MIDI Note Table When NOTE is used as the MIDI type, the table below can be used as a reference for MIDI note values.
Unison What is Unison? Unison is an exclusive analog/digital integration system that’s built into every Apollo preamplifier. It’s the first and only way to truly emulate classic analog mic preamp, guitar amp, and pedal behaviors in an audio interface.
Unison Features Unison technology enables these Apollo features, all with Realtime UAD Processing: • Alternate microphone preamplifier sound – Apollo’s ultra-transparent mic preamps inherit all the unique sonic and input characteristics of the emulated hardware preamp, guitar amp, or pedal, including the mic, line, and Hi-Z inputs.
Activating Unison Unison is activated by inserting any Unison-enabled plug-in into the dedicated Unison insert available on Console’s preamp input channels. Click the UNISON insert to select a Unison-enabled plug-in from the Insert Assign popover. Analog Input Channel Tip: Unison can be active on more than one preamp channel at the same time. Unison Insert Unison Insert Location The Unison insert is located between the preamp gain knob and the standard channel inserts.
Unique Behavior of Unison Inserts Console’s Unison inserts have some operational differences compared to standard inserts, as described below. Available UAD plug-ins Only Unison plug-ins are available for selection from the Insert Assign Popover when inserting UAD plug-ins into the Unison insert. Non-Unison plug-ins are not visible in the Insert Assign popover with Unison inserts.
Controlling Unison Plug-Ins with Apollo Solo USB When a Unison plug-in is inserted in Console’s Unison insert, Apollo Solo USB’s top panel preamp controls and the Unison plug-in’s equivalent preamp controls are mirrored. Adjusting Apollo Solo USB’s top panel preamp controls adjusts the Unison plug-in’s preamp controls, and vice versa. Plug-In Parameters Unison plug-ins may contain parameters that are unavailable for hardware control via Apollo Solo USB.
Console Indications Gain Level When Unison is active in the channel, the color of Console’s preamp gain level display (the colored ring around the gain knob), and the channel selection dot on the gain knob, is orange instead of green. If the Unison plug-in is inactive (either via the insert disable switch or the power switch in the plug-in interface), the color reverts to green.
Top Panel Channel Selection Level Knob Switch In addition to the rotary control, Apollo Solo USB’s top panel level knob has a switch function when the knob is pressed. The function of this switch varies depending on the active mode (either Channel Select Mode or Gain Stage Mode), as described below. Channel Select Mode (standard operation) Channel selection determines which input channel can being adjusted with Apollo Solo USB’s top panel preamp controls.
Gain Stage Mode Unison plug-ins have either two or three gain parameters. By activating Gain Stage Mode, each of these gain stages can be independently adjusted using Apollo Solo USB’s top panel gain knob. Note: Gain Stage Mode can only be active on one preamp channel at a time. Initially, when Unison is activated (before entering Gain Stage Mode), Apollo Solo USB’s top panel gain knob controls the first gain parameter within the Unison plug-in.
Deactivating Gain Stage Mode Gain Stage Mode can be deactivated with any of these methods: • • • • • Press and hold Apollo Solo USB’s top panel knob for at least two seconds (Apollo Solo USB must be in Input mode by pressing the PREAMP button at least once) Disable the Unison plug-in via the plug-in editor window within Console Disable the Unison plug-in via the on/off parameter within the plug-in interface Remove the Unison plug-in from Console’s Unison insert Change the selected channel by pressing the
Note: Some Unison plug-ins have only two gain stages. Matching Gain Stage Indicators In Gain Stage Mode, Apollo Solo USB’s level indicator (the colored ring around the top panel hardware knob) matches the colored dot on the target gain parameter in the Unison plug-in’s interface, as shown below. The hardware and software controls are mirrored and the gain stage can be adjusted using either control.
Unison Load/Save Behaviors Caution: Apollo Solo USB hardware preamp settings (including +48V phantom power and PAD) can change when Console sessions are loaded. Details are explained in this section. Loading Unison Plug-In Settings When Unison plug-in settings are loaded in Console, the effect on currently active Unison plug‑in settings varies depending on how the settings are loaded. It is important to understand this distinction, because critical preamp settings can be affected.
Unison Operation Notes The operating notes in this section only apply to Unison functionality (when a Unison plug-in is loaded in Console’s dedicated Unison insert). These notes do NOT apply with Unison plug-ins that are used in Console’s standard inserts, nor via VST/AAX 64 plug-ins within a DAW, even when a Unison plug-in title is used. In this scenario, Unison plug-ins function the same as all standard (non-Unison) UAD plug-in titles and there is no physical or electrical hardware interaction.
• • • • • If a Unison plug-in does not contain settings that are available on Apollo Solo (pad, low cut filter, etc), the Apollo Solo settings are not changed when the Unison plug-in settings are loaded, and the Apollo Solo settings are still available for control via Apollo Solo’s top panel and/or Console channel. When a Unison plug-in is removed from the Unison insert, Apollo Solo’s mic input impedance reverts to its default value of 5.4K Ohms.
Console Recall Plug-In Console Recall is a unique DAW plug-in supplied in VST and AAX 64 formats. It is inserted and used within host DAWs as with any other plug-in. The primary function of the Console Recall plug-in is to store Console’s current setup within the DAW project via the SYNC (synchronize) switch in the plug-in. The plug-in can also be used to view and adjust Apollo Solo USB’s monitor output level, mono, and mute states without having to leave the DAW.
Console Recall Controls Most Console Recall plug-in controls are duplicates of those found in the Console application. The exceptions are the SYNC switch, and the CONSOLE switch, which opens the Console application. SYNC Switch Open Console Monitor Meters Monitor Level Monitor Options Console Recall plug-In controls Monitor Controls The exact same control descriptions in the Console application apply to the Console Recall plug-in controls.
How To Use Console Recall To use Console Recall, simply place one instance of the Console Recall plug-in into any insert slot in the DAW project. The plug-in is installed to the same location as all other UAD plug-ins. Note: The name of the plug-in is “Console Recall” (without the UAD prefix), so it’s at the top of UAD plug-in lists within the DAW. Important: To avoid unpredictable results, do not insert more than one occurrence of the Console Recall plug-in within any single DAW project.
Loading Synchronized DAW Projects If SYNC was enabled when a DAW project containing Console Recall was saved, then loading that DAW project sends the Console settings saved in the plug-in to Console. If the current Console settings are different than the Console settings in the DAW plug-in, the Console settings that were active before the DAW project was loaded are overwritten.
UAD Meter & Control Panel The UAD Meter & Control Panel application is used to monitor and configure UAD device resources. It is also used to manually authorize UAD plug-ins after a purchase as the UA store. The application has two main windows: the UAD Meter, and the UAD Control Panel. The UAD Meter displays the current DSP, program, and memory status of UAD devices in realtime. The UAD Control Panel has multiple panels that display and modify various system, plug-in, and global configuration parameters.
UAD Meter Window Refer to the illustration below for descriptions in this section Minimize DSP Load Meter Program Memory Meter Meter Menu Quit Averaged Loads Open Plug-Ins Panel Memory Meter UAD Meter window elements Title Bar The Title Bar (the strip across the top of the UAD Meter window) contains buttons to quit the UAD Meter & Control panel application, minimize the UAD Meter window, and access the Meter Menu.
Individual Loads When additional UAD devices are added to the system, individual DSP loads within the individual units can be viewed in the System Information panel. UAD Plug-In Loads The amount of UAD resources used by UAD plug-ins vary with each individual plug-in; more complex algorithms require more resources. UAD Instance Chart The amount of DSP used by each individual UAD plug-in is available in the UAD instance count chart.
Memory The Memory (MEM) gauge indicates the percentage of UAD RAM that is currently in use. It indicates the total available UAD memory available, regardless of the number of DSP processors that are installed. Memory is used for echo, delay lines, reverb, and other spatial processing. When UAD plug-ins are disabled but not unloaded, memory requirements are not decreased. In this case, the memory remains loaded so that reverb tails and delay lines are not cut off when the plug-in is disabled.
UAD Control Panels The UAD Control Panels are where detailed system information is displayed and global UAD plug-in settings are modified. The main UAD Control panel window has four panels, organized by related functions: System Information, Plug-Ins, Configuration, and Help. Accessing the Control Panels The UAD Control Panel window is accessed from the UAD Meter window. To open the Control Panel, click the menu button in the UAD Meter window title bar as shown below.
System Information Panel The System Information panel displays detailed UAD software and hardware information and contains several useful buttons. Refer to the screenshot below for descriptions in this section. Software Section Version String The currently installed version of UAD software is displayed here. Check for Updates This button checks the Universal Audio web servers for a newer version of the UAD software.
Plug-In Latency UAD plug-in latency in the DAW, in samples and milliseconds, is displayed here when the DAW is running. Note: These plug-in latency values are unrelated to UAD plug-ins used within Console. The displayed values are calculated from the current audio I/O buffer size and the session sample rate when Extra Buffering is off. When Extra Buffering is on, the displayed latency is the I/O buffer size plus 64 samples.
Device Enabled Individual UAD devices can be disabled using the Device Enabled button. This can be useful, for example, if creating a session on a system with multiple devices that will be transferred to a system with fewer devices, or to streamline performance of the host system when multiple devices are not needed. Click the button to disable an individual device. The device is enabled when the button is blue. Devices remain disabled only while the UAD Meter & Control Panel application is open.
Plug-Ins Panel The Plug-Ins panel displays the current authorization and demo status of all installed UAD plug-ins. Use the scroll bar to view plug-ins that are not visible in the list. Refer to the screenshot below for descriptions in this section. Tip: The Plug-Ins panel can be accessed by clicking the blue Plug-Ins Panel Button labeled “UAD-2” in the UAD Meter window. Authorize Plug-ins button UAD plug-ins are automatically authorized each time the computer is started (internet connection required).
Plug-In Column All currently installed UAD plug-ins are displayed in the Plug-In column. Plug-Ins are listed by release order, with newest plug-ins at the top of the column. Status Column The Status column reflects the current authorization state of each UAD plug-in. After authorization, the status will show one of the following: Authorized for all devices – When the plug-in is licensed and authorized to run on all devices in the system, “Authorized for all devices” is displayed in white text.
Configuration Panel The UAD Configuration Panel is where most of the global UAD settings and preferences are specified for UAD devices. Refer to the screenshot below for descriptions in this section. Note: Settings related specifically to Apollo Solo USB’s audio interface functionality and Console are set in Console Settings. The settings displayed in the Configuration Panel depend on the UAD hardware that is currently installed.
UAD-2 DSP Settings Overview Without UAD plug-ins, overloading the host computer system with native (host CPU based) plug-ins can cause audio dropouts and other system issues. Some DAWs, for example, provide a switch that allows you to trade latency for stability when the system is overloaded. Similarly, the UAD DSP load cannot exceed 100% without unpredictable behavior.
DSP LoadLock DSP LoadLock reserves the maximum UAD‑2 DSP load required by each plug-in, even if certain plug-in features are disabled. This ensures there will always be enough DSP if those features are later enabled, or when automating parameters that affect the DSP load.
User Interface Settings Controls Mode This setting determines how UAD plug-in parameter knobs respond to adjustment. Three control modes are offered: Circular, Relative Circular, and Linear. Select the desired mode from the Controls Mode menu.
Help Panel The Help & Support Resources panel (shown below) contains helpful buttons to help you get the most out your Apollo Solo USB and UAD plug-ins experience. The button names are self-explanatory. Click a button to open its page on the internet. If the UAD computer isn’t online, much of the information is in the manual you’re reading now; find the topic in the Table of Contents or the PDF reader’s search feature. Product Manuals is the only button that doesn’t link to the internet.
Using UAD Plug-Ins Loading UAD Plug-Ins Each plug-in host application (Console and/or a DAW) has its own methods for loading (aka instantiating, inserting, launching) and using plug-ins. To load UAD plug-ins within Console, see Inserting UAD Plug-Ins. To load UAD plug-ins within a DAW, consult the DAW documentation. The UAD Plug-In Interface One typical UAD plug-in interface is shown below.
UAD Toolbar The UAD Toolbar is located at the bottom of every UAD plug-in (when the plug-in is not in Controls View). Refer to the illustration below for control descriptions in this section. Preset/Settings menu Status indicator LiveTrack switch Help menu Buy plug-in UAD Toolbar elements Presets/Settings Menu This menu can be used to manage UAD plug-in settings from within a DAW.
Load/Save Preset Preset/Settings Menu The Preset/Settings menu is used to load/save plug-in presets and copy/ paste plug-in settings when UAD plug-ins are used within a DAW. To access the Preset/Settings menu, click the folder icon in the UAD Toolbar, then select an item from the drop menu. Tip: When using UAD plug-ins within Console, use Console’s Presets Manager instead for its improved functionality. The Preset load/save features support presets but not banks.
Status Indicator The Status indicator in the UAD Toolbar displays information about the current state of the plug-in. Each state is described below. Start Demo – When START DEMO is displayed, the 14-day trial period for the particular plug-in has never been activated. Clicking this button will start the demonstration period (you can also start the demo in the UAD Control Panel’s Status Column.
LiveTrack Mode LiveTrack mode reduces latency on an active UAD plug-in to the lowest possible amount when the UAD plug-in is used within a DAW. This feature is useful for monitoring UADprocessed audio when recording live performances via software monitoring in the DAW. Note: LiveTrack is not available for UAD plug-ins used within Console, where Realtime UAD Processing always minimizes latency. Reduced latency with LiveTrack is accomplished by circumventing standard I/O buffering processes.
Adjusting Parameters The parameter settings within each UAD plug-in can be adjusted to achieve a desired sonic effect. Parameter values are easily modified by dragging sliders, rotating knobs, clicking switches and buttons, or by selecting values from a drop menu. The functions of all individual UAD plug-in parameters are detailed in the UAD plug-in manuals. The parameter adjustment style can be Circular, Relative Circular, or Linear. For descriptions of these options, see User Interface Settings.
Shortcuts The table below lists the keyboard shortcuts that are available for modifying UAD plug-in parameter values. When using keyboard shortcuts, the last edited control will be modified. Note: Not all DAW applications support sending keystrokes to plug-ins.
DSP Loading Notes • UAD devices feature either one, two, four, or eight (SOLO, DUO, QUAD, or OCTO) on-board DSP cores for UAD plug-in processing. Apollo Solo USB features UAD-2 SOLO core processing. • UAD DSP use is proportional to the sample rate. Twice as many UAD plug-ins can be used at a 48 kHz sample rate versus a 96 kHz sample rate, and so forth. • UAD plug-ins within Console can only run on Apollo Solo USB’s built-in DSP.
Mono (m) UAD plug-ins UAD VST plug-ins with “(m)” in the name are monophonic versions of the plug-in for use within VST-based DAWs. Standard UAD VST plug-ins (which support both stereo and mono configurations) do not consume additional UAD DSP on mono sources when loaded in DAWs that use true-mono processing (for example, Avid Pro Tools and Steinberg Cubase). Some DAWs (for example, Ableton Live and Cakewalk Sonar) do not use true-mono processing on mono signals.
Tempo Sync The time-based parameters of some UAD plug-ins can be synchronized to the tempo of the host application using the Tempo Sync feature. Note: Not all DAW applications support Tempo Sync. In these hosts, the tempo sync features will not function. When Tempo Sync is activated, the time-based parameters that are available for synchronization are changed to note duration values, and will sync to the tempo of the host application using the displayed note value.
Sync Activation To activate Tempo Sync, click the “Sync” button within the plug-in interface. The Sync button LED will illuminate and the time parameters will change from a time-based display to a note value display. Note: When Tempo Sync is activated, the plug-in will automatically switch the time or rate parameter(s) to the nearest available note value(s) given the range of the parameter in question and the current tempo.
Range Limits Some Tempo Sync parameters cannot access the entire note range in Available Tempo Sync Note Values. Because the original (non-tempo sync) range of the time-based parameters within each plug-in is limited, if the host tempo is too fast or too slow, the tempo sync note value may not be able to be achieved within the constraints of the original parameter. Out of range When a parameter note value is out of range of the current tempo note value, the note value is displayed in parentheses.
Precision Delay Modes with Tempo Sync The UAD Precision Delay Mod and UAD Precision Delay Mod L plug-ins have a Mode menu that switches the plug-in operation between delay, chorus, and flanger mode. In these plug-ins, when the Mode is set to DUAL DELAY and PING PONG, the delay Time and modulation Rate parameters are simultaneously available for Tempo Sync. However, when the plug-in is set to a CHORUS or FLANGER mode, only the Rate is available for Tempo Sync.
UA Account & Store Account Overview Your Universal Audio account is where all your UAD devices, and their associated UAD plug‑ins, are registered and managed. A UA account is required to register and authorize your Apollo Solo USB hardware, download UAD software, and receive customer support. Device Registration The account creation and device registration process is triggered automatically whenever a new UAD device is recognized by the UAD software. Our web pages guide you through the process.
Store Overview The Universal Audio online store is where optional UAD plug-in licenses are purchased and UA coupons are redeemed. Bundled Plug-Ins UAD plug-ins that are bundled (included) with Apollo Solo USB are automatically issued to your UA account when the device is registered. After registration is complete, authorize the UAD system to run the bundled plug-ins. Note: UAD devices must be registered and authorized to use bundled plug-ins.
UAD Authorization Overview Note: This section is an overview of the UAD authorization system. For step-bystep authorization instructions, see UAD Authorization Procedure. My Hardware The UAD devices (Apollo Solo USB is a UAD device) and UAD plug-ins that you own are found on your MY HARDWARE page at www.uaudio.com/my/account/hardware. The My Hardware page keeps track of your registered UAD devices and UAD plug-in licenses and is managed automatically by the UA store and UAD software.
Demo Mode All unlicensed UAD plug-ins include a free 14-day trial evaluation period. When the demonstration mode is activated, the plug-in runs without functional limitations for 14 days. Demo mode can be activated once only. After the demo trial period has expired, demo mode cannot be activated again on the same UAD device.
Buying UAD Plug-Ins To obtain optional UAD plug-in licenses, simply visit www.uaudio.com, browse the available plug-ins at the secure UA store, complete your purchase with several payment options, and authorize the new plug-in(s). You can also apply any coupon credit that is available from promotional offers. Lots of product information such as features, specifications, audio/video examples, and reviews are available on the plug-in product pages to help you make informed buying decisions.
UAD Authorization Procedure UAD plug-ins are automatically authorized each time the computer is started. However, the UAD system must be manually authorized whenever a plug-in is purchased from the UA store. Note: Follow this procedure to manually authorize a new UAD plug-in purchase whenever you buy a plug-in at the UA store. To manually authorize UAD plug-ins to run on the UAD device: 1. Open the UAD Meter & Control Panel application (see Launching the Application for methods). 2.
Offline UAD Authorization Important: UAD devices must be registered and UAD plug-ins must be authorized before they can be used. UAD plug-ins are automatically authorized each time the computer is started if the system is connected to the Internet.
5. Go to the URL using a web browser on an Internet-connected computer. Doubleclick the transferred weblink shortcut, or enter the URL as previously noted. • If you don’t already have a UA account, you are directed to create one. Follow the online instructions. • If you already have a UA account, login with your email address and password. If your password is lost, the store can email password reset link to you. 6.
Latency & Apollo Solo USB Delay Compensation with Apollo Solo USB System latency encapsulates all latencies induced within the typical digital audio workstation environment. See Latency Basics for a detailed overview of where, when, and how latency (delay) is induced in the DAW environment. Note: Upsampling latency, input latency, and all other system latencies are automatically compensated by Console and modern DAWs when delay compensation is enabled in the host application.
Input Delay Compensation in Console Console has automatic Input Delay Compensation (IDC), which is controlled by the Input Delay Compensation menu in Console Settings. Console IDC maintains phase alignment across all Console inputs when upsampled UAD plug-ins are used in Console. Console’s IDC is useful when multiple Console inputs are used on a single source.
For example: When Console’s IDC value is set to Short (100 samples – the default value) and only 31 samples is actually required to compensate, 100 samples is still added to all inputs in the DAW. If using software monitoring via the DAW, the extra (unnecessary) delay could be detected. Software monitoring with Console IDC When software monitoring via the DAW and Console IDC is enabled, the lowest effective Console IDC setting is recommended to minimize monitoring latency.
Latency Basics Latency (delay) is an inherent factor in digital audio systems because of A/D-D/A conversion, I/O buffering in the DAW, plug-in signal processing, and other aspects. Although there are ways to mitigate latency (such as delay compensation and/or low‑latency monitoring), it always exists to some degree when working with systems that combine analog and digital audio. These concepts are explained in greater detail below.
Console Latency Apollo Solo USB’s Console mixer is used for low-latency input monitoring (cue mixing) of Apollo Solo USB’s analog inputs. Using Console to monitor Apollo Solo USB’s inputs may or may not add to the inherent analog I/O round-trip latency, depending on how it is configured, as described below: Console without UAD plug-ins – When Console is used without UAD plug-ins, monitoring Apollo Solo USB’s inputs via Console does not add any latency.
Device Drivers Apollo Solo USB Drivers Overview The Apollo Solo USB device drivers are low-level system software files that instruct the computer’s operating system about how to communicate with the Apollo Solo USB hardware. Apollo Solo USB’s drivers control Apollo Solo USB’s audio interface, Console, and UAD-2 functionality. The drivers are loaded during computer system startup so that whenever Apollo Solo USB is connected, the device is ready to accept instructions from the OS and audio applications.
Driver I/O Table The table below lists the I/O channel numbers and names for all available ASIO streams. Tip: For convenient reference with DAWs that don’t display driver I/O channels by name, print this page. Driver I/O Table Notes • • The number at the left of both columns is the channel number used by the DAW if the channel names are not displayed by the DAW. At sample rates of 176.4 kHz and 192 kHz, AUX 2 and VIRTUAL channels are unavailable.
Troubleshooting If Apollo Solo USB isn’t behaving as expected, some common troubleshooting items to confirm are below. If you are still experiencing issues after performing these checks, contact Technical Support.
Glossary A/D A n acronym for “Analog to Digital,” which refers to the conversion of analog signals to digital data. Acronym A word formed from the first letters of other words (e.g., GUI, ADAT, TRS, etc.). ADAT An acronym for “Alesis Digital Audio Tape.” ADAT was the name given to the Alesis-branded products of the 1990s which recorded eight tracks of digital audio on a standard S-VHS video cassette.
Bit Depth (See “Bit Resolution”) Bit Resolution Often used interchangeably with “bit depth,” this is a term used to describe the number of bits used in a digital recording. Apollo converts analog audio and transmits digital audio with a resolution of 24 bits (thus yielding a theoretical dynamic range of approximately 145 dB), the highest audio interface resolution in common use today.
D/A Acronym for “Digital to Analog,” which refers to the conversion of a digital data to an analog signal. DAW Acronym for “Digital Audio Workstation” – that is, any device or software that can record, play back, edit, and process digital audio. dB Abbreviation for “decibel,” a logarithmic unit of measure used to determine, among other things, power ratios, voltage gain, and sound pressure levels. dBm Abbreviation for “decibels as referenced to milliwatt,” dissipated in a standard load of 600 ohms.
Firmware Software that is embedded in hardware. Flex Routing Apollo technology that enables its physical inputs to be routed to various physical outputs. Compare to Virtual I/O. FPGA Acronym for “Field Programmable Gate Array.” A type of integrated circuit that can be programmed after manufacturing (“in the field”) to perform specialized functions. Front End Refers to a device that provides analog and digital input/output (I/O) to a digital audio workstation (DAW). Apollo is a front end.
Line Level Refers to the voltages used by audio devices such as mixers, signal processors, tape recorders, and DAWs. Professional audio systems typically utilize line level signals of +4 dBm (which translates to 1.23 volts), while consumer and semiprofessional audio equipment typically utilize line level signals of -10 dBV (which translates to 0.316 volts). Low Cut Filter An equalizer circuit that cuts signal below a particular frequency. Same as “high pass filter.
Ribbon Microphone A type of microphone that works by loosely suspending a small element (usually a corrugated strip of metal) in a strong magnetic field. This “ribbon” is moved by the motion of air molecules and in doing so it cuts across the magnetic lines of flux, causing an electrical signal to be generated. Ribbon microphones tend to be delicate and somewhat expensive, but often have very flat frequency response. Sample A digital “snapshot” of the amplitude of a sound at a single instant in time.
Transimpedance Preamplifier A transformerless solid-state preamplifier utilizing a transistor configuration that employs current feedback for ultra-low distortion and the highest possible quality of signal from input to output. The transimpedance design allows audio from 4 Hz to 150 kHz to pass through without altering the phase relationships between fundamental frequencies and overtones.
Specifications All specifications are typical performance unless otherwise noted, tested under the following conditions: 48 kHz internal sample rate, 24-bit sample depth, 20 kHz measurement bandwidth, with balanced inputs and outputs.
ANALOG I/O Frequency Response 20 Hz – 20 kHz, ±0.1 dB Line Inputs 1 & 2 Connector Type ¼” Female TRS Balanced (Combo XLR/TRS) Dynamic Range 118 dB (A–weighting) Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise –107 dBFS Input Impedance 10K Ohms (differential) Gain Range +10 dB to +65 dB Maximum Input Level (600 Ohm source) +20.
ANALOG I/O Stereo Headphones Output Connector Type ¼” Female TRS Stereo Dynamic Range (A–weighting) 115 dB (600 Ohm load) 114 dB (32 Ohm load) Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (A–weighting) –97 dB (600 Ohm load) –88 dB (32 Ohm load) Maximum Output Power 62 mW (300 Ohm load) 240 mW (32 Ohm load) ELECTRICAL Power Supply External AC to DC AC Connector Type Changeable blades (UL, VDE, UK, SSA, CCC) AC Requirements 100V – 240V AC, 50 – 60 Hz DC Connector Type Male plug, 2.1 mm x 5.
Apollo Solo USB Manual 237 PAD TYPE C USB 3 USB HOST INTERFACE 1/4” TRS LINE IN 2 Unison™ VARIABLE IMPEDANCE PAD +48V +48V ON/OFF MIC PAD IN/OUT XLR FEMALE MIC IN 2 1/4” TRS LINE IN 1 1/4” HI-Z IN XLR FEMALE MIC IN 1 +48V +48V ON/OFF MIC PAD IN/OUT ANALOG INPUTS MIC/LINE SELECT A/D A/D ø LOW-CUT POLARITY ON/OFF CONTROL ø LOW-CUT POLARITY ON/OFF CONTROL SYSTEM CONTROL CLOCKING / SYNC MIXER Apollo Solo USB Hardware Block Diagram Unison™ VARIABLE IMPEDANCE (MIC) INPUT GAIN 10 –
Universal Audio History Pioneering audio recording for more than 50 years. Founded in 1958 by Bill Putnam Sr., Universal Audio has been synonymous with innovative recording products since its inception. A favorite engineer of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles and more, the late Bill Putnam Sr. was a passionate innovator who is widely regarded as the father of modern recording — with many of his legendary studio and equipment designs still in use today.
Re-founded in 1999 Universal Audio was re-founded in 1999 by Bill’s sons, James Putnam and Bill Putnam Jr., with two main goals: to faithfully reproduce classic analog recording equipment in the tradition of their father; and to design new digital recording tools in with the sound and spirit of vintage analog technology. To that end, Universal Audio employs the world’s brightest DSP engineers and digital modeling authorities to develop our award-winning UAD Powered Plug-Ins platform.
Bill Putnam Sr. The name M.T. “Bill” Putnam retains a unique status in the audio industry hall of fame- it’s legendary even among those who are considered to be legends themselves. Called the “father of modern recording” by no less a luminary than Bruce Swedien, and a “visionary, responsible for motivating new thinking,” by respected studio engineer Tom Hidley, Putnam was a true renaissance man in the world of sound and music.
Landmark Recordings Bruce Swedien, a teenager at the time, recalls that the sound on “Peg-O-My-Heart” was a seminal influence on him. “It was the first pop music recording where artificially controlled reverb was used for artistic effect,” he explains. “Many of the recordings that were done prior to that had reverb, but it was part of the acoustics of the recording environment.
Moving West- United Recording Corp. With his Chicago studio so successful, Putnam’s clients began urging him to open a facility on the West Coast, and finally he was convinced. In 1957 he sold his interest in Universal Recording, started a new company called United Recording Corp. and moved to Hollywood, taking over a building at 6050 Sunset and starting construction on new studios.
Universal Audio and UREI Meanwhile, upstairs in the 6050 Sunset building Universal Audio was thriving, and changing names. Now called UREI®, the company had acquired the patent rights to the LA-2A leveling amplifier, and also to National Intertel, which became the Teletronix division of UREI®. It was a unique situation; Putnam was always searching for better ways to do things and the combination of studios and manufacturing led readily to new product ideas.
“There’s a great story about when stereo was coming on. The record companies really weren’t that interested -- everyone was cost conscious. They didn’t want to spend any more money and they were saying that stereo was a waste of time. But Bill could see the potential, and around 1959 he started recording everything with feeds to two control rooms, one for a stereo mix, one for a mono mix. In late ‘58, ‘59 and ‘60 everything Bill did was recorded in both stereo and mono.
Classic Compressors The LA-2A and 1176 compressor/limiters long ago achieved classic status. They’re a given in almost any studio in the world -- relied upon daily by engineers whose styles range from rock to rap, classical to country and everything in between. With so many newer products on the market to choose from, it’s worth looking at the reasons why these classics remain a necessary part of any professional studio’s outboard equipment collection.
1176LN It was Bill Putnam himself who, in 1966, was responsible for the initial design of the 1176. Its circuit was rooted in the 1108 preamplifier which was also designed by Putnam. As is evident from entries and schematics in his design notebook, he experimented with the recently developed Field Effect Transistor (F.E.T.) in various configurations to control the gain reduction in the circuit. He began using F.E.T.
Pros Talk UA Both the 1176 and the LA-2A remain in daily use. Busy engineers and producers’ comments about both the 1176 and the LA-2A demonstrate their impact on the industry: Mike Shipley Mike Shipley (Def Leppard, Shania Twain, Blondie): “I grew up using 1176s - in England they were the compressor of choice. They’re especially good for vocals, which is also what I primarily use the LA-2 for. Most anything else I can do without, but I can’t be without at least a pair of 1176s and an LA-2A.
Allen Sides Allen Sides has always been known for having golden ears when it comes to the sound of equipment. The owner of Ocean Way Studios in Los Angeles and Nashville, he’s also a speaker designer and engineer who is especially respected for his work with live musicians, including orchestra and string dates. Among his recent credits are work with the Goo Goo Dolls, Alanis Morissette and Green Day. Sides brings his different perspectives into play when he talks about using the 1176.
Jim Scott Jim Scott shared a Grammy for Best Engineered Album for Tom Petty’s Wildflowers. He’s also known for his work with Red Hot Chili Peppers, Natalie Merchant and Wilco. “I use 1176s real conservatively and they still do amazing things,” he comments. “I’m always on the four to one button, and the Dr. Pepper - you know, 10 o’clock, 2 o’clock, and it does everything I need. “I always use them on vocals.
Mike Clink Producer/Engineer Mike Clink (Guns N’ Roses, Sammy Hagar, Pushmonkey) also comes from the Record Plant school of recording. “I find that I actually use 1176s more now than I ever did,” he comments. “I like them because they bring out the brightness and presence of a sound they give it an energy. It seems like when I’m mixing I end up using an 1176 on the vocals every time. And if I want to compress a room sound I’ll take a mono room mic, put an 1176 across it and push in all the buttons.
Thank You We would like to thank you again for becoming a Universal Audio customer. We encourage you subscribe to our email lists in your account profile at www.uaudio.com so we can keep you informed about UA product developments and promotions.
Notices Warranty Universal Audio provides a limited warranty on all hardware products. To learn more, please visit help.uaudio.com. The limited warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may also have other rights which vary by state or country. Repair Service If you are having trouble with Apollo Solo USB, first check all system setups, connections, software installations, operating instructions, and the Troubleshooting chart. If that doesn’t help, contact our technical support team.
Important Safety Information Before using this unit, be sure to carefully read the applicable items of these operating instructions and the safety suggestions. Afterwards, keep them handy for future reference. Take special care to follow the warnings indicated on the unit, as well as in the operating instructions. 1) Read these instructions. 2) Keep these instructions. 3) Heed all warnings. 4) Follow all instructions. 5) Do not use this apparatus near water. 6) Clean only with dry cloth.
Compliance United States Class B Manual Statement NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Disclaimer The information contained in this manual is subject to change without notice. Universal Audio, Inc. makes no warranties of any kind with regard to this manual, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Universal Audio, Inc. shall not be liable for errors contained herein or direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance, or use of this material.
Technical Support Universal Audio Knowledge Base The UA Knowledge Base is your complete online technical resource for configuring, operating, troubleshooting, and repairing all UA products. You can watch helpful support videos, search the Knowledge Base for answers, get updated technical information that may not be available elsewhere, and more. UA Knowledge Base YouTube Support Channel The Universal Audio Support Channel at youtube.com includes helpful support videos for setting up and using UA products.
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