As part of the music technology A2 exam, you can expect there to be a question that asks you to understand how various music technology hardware units work. In the first audio unit example you can see how a typical audio interface works and how it can be connected to various instruments, microphones and devices.
Use the below produce information to answer this question, answers should be places in the comment box at the bottom of this page:
Question:
In the picture provided (Front & Rear Panels) the picture shows an audio interface. Explain the technical features and specifications that can be seen in the picture. (16 Marks)
The Apollo audio interface is a High-Resolution Music Production tool with a Classic Analog Sound. With its class-leading resolution and Realtime UAD Processing, Apollo sets a new standard for music production. This 18 x 24 interface allows you to record with near-zero latency through the full range of UAD Powered Plug-Ins — ingeniously merging classic analog tones with cutting-edge features.
Key Features
- 18 x 24 FireWire/Thunderbolt-ready audio interface for Mac and Windows 7*
- Realtime UAD Processing for low-latency (sub-2ms) tracking and mixing w/ UAD Powered Plug-Ins**
- Full recall of interface and Realtime UAD plug-in settings within DAW sessions
- 8 analog inputs: 4 digitally controlled analog mic preamps; 8 balanced line inputs
- 14 analog outputs: 8 balanced line outs; 2 digitally-controlled analog monitor outs; 2 dedicated stereo headphone outs
- 10 channels of digital I/O: 8 channels of ADAT; 2 channels S/PDIF; Wordclock I/O
- Dual FireWire 800 ports, plus Thunderbolt Option Card for connectivity to new Macs
- Available in DUO Core and QUAD Core processor models
- Includes “Realtime Analog Classics Plus”plug-in bundle
- Multi-Unit Cascading allows combining two Apollos for 16 analog inputs/outputs and 12 digital inputs/outputs
- New Unison™ technology for stunning models of classic mic preamps**
What do all of the ports do and how to connect them?
Front & Rear Panels
The Apollo interface places all the most commonly used recording and monitoring features right on the front panel, for fast, direct access. Similarly, its rear panel provides all the dedicated, high-quality I/O needed for a typical production studio.
Basic Setup
This diagram illustrates a simple Apollo setup that might be used by an individual musician/engineer for recording guitar and vocals simultaneously.
Key points for this example:
- Two preamp channels are used (electric guitar and microphone)
- Mic/Line switch for channel 2 is set to “Mic”
- Monitor outputs are connected to powered monitors (or an amp+speaker system)
Typical Setup
This diagram illustrates an Apollo setup that might be used by two musicians that are recording simultaneously. In this setup, only analog devices are connected; digital I/O is not used.
Key points for this example:
- Mic/Line switch for channels 3 and 4 are set to “Mic”
- Unique mixes can be sent to each headphone output for “more me” during tracking
Advanced Setup w/ Additional UAD-2 Satellite Processing
This diagram illustrates a more complex Apollo setup that might be used for recording an entire ensemble, utilising both analog and digital I/O.
Key points for this example:
- Mic/Line switch for channels 3 and 4 are set to “Mic”
- Four additional mic preamps from UA’s 4-710d are routed into Apollo via ADAT Lightpipe
- UAD-2 Sattelite is connected via FireWire, allowing for additional UAD Powered Plug-In processing
- Apollo is the master clock device; the 4-710d clock source is set to external word clock and the 4-710d Termination switch is engaged
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