Apogee Electronics Introduces Symphony I/O

This multichannel audio interface featuring next generation sound quality, Logic and Pro Tools compatibility

Apogee Electronics Corporation introduces Symphony I/O, the most advanced multichannel professional audio interface available with next-generation sound quality, Logic and Pro Tools compatibility and total I/O flexibility. Perfecting the collaboration between Apogee audio hardware and the Mac, Symphony I/O is the culmination of 25 years of award-winning design experience featuring a unique modular based system which can function in StandAlone Mode or connect directly to a Mac via any Mac-based audio workstation. With Symphony I/O, the new Symphony System sets an unprecedented standard with ground-breaking digital audio conversion technology, new Maestro 2 software, multiple I/O options, and ultra low latency performance.

With flexible and scalable I/O architecture, the upgraded Symphony System now allows end-users to define a system to their specific needs while benefitting from an incredible feature set. Symphony I/O’s base chassis can accommodate up to 2 I/O modules, creating any combination of analog and digital I/O with USB 2.0, Symphony and Avid’s Pro Tools connectivity. The new Maestro 2 offers integral control of Symphony I/O with clean and clear software interface that makes workflow easy by removing the guesswork from routing, mic pre adjustment, input and output calibration and hardware control. Lastly, connect Symphony I/O to the Symphony 64 PCI or Symphony Mobile Express/34 card for ultra low latency with Apple Logic, and all Apple Core Audio applications.

The new Symphony System offers an unparalleled option for professionals serious about the quality of their recordings, all at remarkably affordable pricing. “Symphony I/O takes Apogee’s high-end to the next level, and does so with an interface so adaptable, so efficient, so extraordinary, we are confident it will become the centerpiece of the modern audio recording studio,” says Apogee CEO and Founder Betty Bennett. “For professionals who depend on extremely low-latency, precise clocking technology and the highest conversion quality, Symphony I/O is the answer.”

At A Glance Features:

Symphony I/O

• The latest in Apogee conversion and clocking technologies
• Current I/O Modules include:
  • 8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O
  • 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O
  • 8 Mic Preamp
  • 16 Analog IN + 16 Optical OUT
  • 16 Analog OUT + 16 Optical IN
• Audio Interface Mode (AIM): Easily configure Symphony I/O from the front panel for these modes:
  • Symphony (connect to Symphony PCIe card or Symphony Mobile Express/34 card for ultra low latency use with Logic or any Core Audio application)
  • Pro Tools HD (connect directly to Pro Tools PCIe card)
  • USB (connect to high-speed USB 2.0 port)
  • StandAlone (I/O inputs routed directly to I/O outputs)
• Front panel control including two encoder knobs for selectable input gain and output level adjustment and sixteen (16) high-resolution meters, audio system and clocking indication
• Two (2) studio quality headphone outputs
• Four (4) word clock connections
• Future proof with Ethernet and USB computer connectivity to be available with a future firmware update.
• Available with feet for desktop use or rack ears for rack mounting

Maestro 2

• Allows control of all Apogee hardware inputs, outputs, low latency monitoring and routing paths for single or multiple devices.
• Completely redesigned interface featuring a single window design
• Essential controls such as audio system, clocking, sample rate, headphone output and output level are placed at the top toolbar for quick and easy access.

Symphony I/O Feature Release Schedule:

*NOTE: Features available via downloadable firmware updates and all dates are subject to change.

Release 1 - August 2010

• Symphony I/O Chassis
• 8 Analog I/O + 8 Optical I/O Module
• 8 Analog I/O + 8 AES I/O Module
• Connectivity for up to 2 I/O Modules per Symphony I/O Chassis
• Symphony System Audio Interface Mode
• One Symphony I/O connected to one Symphony 64 PCI card
• Maestro 2

Release 2 - September 2010

• Pro Tools HD Audio Interface Mode - One Symphony I/O, up to 32 channels
• Connection to Symphony Mobile - One Symphony I/O, up to 32 channels
• StandAlone Audio Interface Mode*
• Maestro StandAlone Routing
• Support for 64-bit kernel*

Release 3 - October 2010

• Up to four Symphony I/Os connected to one Symphony 64 PCI card (32 channels per port) or Pro Tools HD 2*
• Mic Preamp I/O Module
• 16 Analog In + 16 Optical Out I/O Module
• 16 Analog Out + 16 Optical In I/O Module
• Legacy support for X-Symphony equipped X-Series and Rosetta Series converters connected to one Symphony 64 PCI card in addition to one Symphony I/O (32 channels per port)*
• UV22HR

Release 4 - November 2010

• USB Audio Interface Mode*
  • Low-latency Mixer enabled in Maestro 2

Release 5 - TBD

• Mic Preamp control via Pro Tools HD or Pro Tools control surface such as ICON
• All Maestro Routing enabled
• SBus support
• Eucon support
• Ethernet functionality
• MADI connectivity