Apollo X8 Gen2 VS Arturia X8 IN. Is it worth spending the extra cash for better A/D?

Hi All,

I’m looking to upgrade my aging Apogee Element AD/DA converters with something more modern.

For my setup, I need a total of 10 line inputs and 4 line outputs.

I have three analog polys (P6, OB-6, Super 6) and two monos (Subsequent 37, Minitaur). I also need an extra pair of line ins/outs to print my analog outboard mixbus chain back to my DAW.

I’m strongly considering the new Gen2 Apollo X8 + Twin X; or, as a more cost-effective alternative, Twin X Gen2 and the new Arturia X8 IN (via ADAT).

I’m aware that a full Apollo setup would likely give me less problems and better sound quality, but I’m not sure if it justifies the significant premium over the Arturia, since I’ll be using only the line inputs on the Apollo X8 (the Twin has enough outputs but not enough inputs for my needs). I’m not so keen to pay for all the additional Apollo onboard features—like preamps, headphone outputs, and extra outputs…

So here’s the question:

Are the line-input A/D converters on the Apollo X8 significantly better than those on the Arturia X8 IN? Specs-wise, the Apollo X8 has a slightly higher dynamic range and lower THD (by about 3 dB on both counts). Will this translate into noticeably better sound for capturing the nuances and tone of my analog synths?

Additionally, since I’m new to ADAT, I have a few concerns:

1. Does ADAT work smoothly with the Apollo Twin? No pops or clicks or any nasty digital farts while recording?

2. Does ADAT affect sound quality at all, or is it simply a data transfer protocol?

3. Does ADAT have any impact on latency with the Apollo Twin?

Thanks in advance!