[SOLVED!] The Fight Of Interfaces: Apollo Twin X Vs. MKII

At the moment, once it comes to audio interfaces for desktops, Universal Audio units have few competitors. For instance, Apollo Twin X and MKII from Universal Audio outmatch most of their contemporaries on the market. You have also heard great things about Twin X and MKII but don’t know which one is the ideal model for you? In that case, you have come to the right place.

Today, I’m going to delve deep into the topic of Apollo Twin X vs. MKII and dissect key aspects of both models. Continue reading if you want to get to know the Universal Audio interfaces and find the best deal.

Summary 

 

 

 

	Apollo Twin X	Apollo MKII
Maximum input level	-25.6 dBu (mic, with pad) -12.2 dBu (Hi-Z, minimum gain) -20.2 dBu (line, minimum gain)	-25 dBu (mic, with pad) -12.2 dBu (Hi-Z, minimum gain) -20.2 dBu (line, minimum gain)
Maximum output level	20.2 dBu (line, monitor)	20.2 dBu (line, monitor)
Dynamic range	-123 dBA  (mic inputs) -121 dBA (Hi-Z inputs) -122 dBA (line inputs) -126 dBA (line outputs) -127 dBA (monitor outputs) -124 dBA (headphones outputs)	-118 dBA  (mic inputs) -117 dBA (Hi-Z inputs) -117.5 dBA (line inputs) -121 dBA (line outputs) -115 dBA (monitor outputs) -113 dBA (headphones outputs)
Headphone output power	96 mW – 300 Ohms (maximum)	80 mW – 600 Ohms (maximum)
Impedance	-5.5 Kilohms (mic inputs) -1 Megohm (Hi-Z inputs) -10 Kilohms (line inputs) -100 Ohms (line – monitor outputs)	-5.4 Kilohms (mic inputs) -1 Megohm (Hi-Z inputs) -10 Kilohms (line inputs) -600 Ohms (line – monitor outputs)
Connection protocol	Thunderbolt 3	Thunderbolt 2
Size	6.3 x 6.2 x 2.6 inches	6.3 x 6.2 x 2.6 inches
Weight	2.4 pounds	2.4 pounds
Price	$980	$899

Apollo Twin X Vs. MKII: Comparison 

Build

From the outside, Apollo Twin X and MKII resemble each other in a lot of regards: color, shape, size, etc. As a result, both Universal Audio units by all accounts feature similar handling characteristics, aesthetic values and so on. Altogether, while they remain far from perfect, Twin X and MKII still manage to impress many people owing to their no-nonsense build quality. Assuming that users don’t take things to the extreme, the two interfaces should hold together for years to come.

Sound

All in all, Apollo Twin X and MKII have similar specs in terms of maximum input and output levels. However, between the two interfaces, Twin X is the one that features superior dynamic range in the course of operation. That means Apollo Twin X usually holds an edge over MKII once it comes to the quality of sound. If you want tip-top sound from your audio interface, it’s strongly recommended that you pick up Twin X.

Note: The sound quality of Apollo MKII is not half-bad and it’s going to be sufficient for a wide range of setups. In fact, the high impedance ratings of MKII make it a solid interface for professionals working alongside various amplifiers, speakers, …

Compatibility

In layman’s terms, Universal Audio units support all sorts of systems but Apollo Twin X proves superior to Apollo MKII regarding compatibility. The reason lies in the connection protocol: Twin X uses Thunderbolt 3 while MKII uses Thunderbolt 2. Consequently, Twin X can readily connect to recent devices but MKII requires adapters to do the same. If your setup consists of modern components and you need an audio interface for it, it’s a good idea to grab Apollo Twin X.

Price

Universal Audio units have a reputation of being high-end models so it’s only natural that Apollo Twin X and MKII come at steep prices. Between Twin X and MKII, Twin X is more expensive but its features and functions match its price. In the case that you want the best of the best, you won’t regret investing in Apollo Twin X. On the other hand, if your shopping budget is kind of tight, feel free to go for MKII (and adapters if necessary).

Decision

The differences in preferences mean the community is at odds about the winner in Apollo Twin X Vs. MKII. That being said, if you seek a premium interface and have no issue dropping big bucks, you should get your hands on Apollo Twin X. Otherwise, you should settle for Apollo MKII as it’s good enough for regular use in most of the cases. Regardless of your final choice, you must get your interface from well-known retailers.

The Background Of Universal Audio 

Headquartered in California, United States, Universal Audio is a company that specializes in audio interfaces, signal processing hardware,  effect pedals, etc. As a long-established brand, Universal Audio knows exactly what people desire and designs their products accordingly. Besides that, Universal Audio also takes advantage of advances in technologies to optimize the operation of each model. Unsurprisingly, products made by Universal Audio have earned the company several TEC Awards.