Apogee Symphony Desktop Review and Specs

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Specification	Detail
Number of Inputs	2 Mic/Line/Instrument inputs
Number of Outputs	4 Analog Outputs, 8 Digital Inputs/Outputs
Mic Preamps	Advanced Stepped Gain Architecture, up to 75 dB
THD+N	-114 dB (A-weighted), 20 Hz – 20 kHz
Dynamic Range	123 dB (A-weighted), 20 Hz – 20 kHz
A/D Conversion	24 bit/192kHz
D/A Conversion	24 bit/192kHz
Headphone Outputs	1 1/4” TRS stereo headphone jack
Instrument Inputs	Variable impedance 0-10k Ohm
Optical TOSLINK ADAT input	8 channels @ 44.1-48 kHz or 4 channels @ 88.2-96 kHz
Digital Inputs and Outputs	S/PDIF, ADAT/SMUX, AES/EBU
Hardware DSP	Symphony ECS Channel Strip and Apogee Native FX Plugins
Monitor Control	Symphony Control Software
Computer Connectivity	USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 compatible
Power Supply	DC power supply (included)
Weight and Dimensions	2.2 lbs (1kg), 8.7” (222 mm) x 7.0” (180 mm) x 1.9” (49 mm)
Operating System Compatibility	Mac OS X 10.12 or later, Windows 10 (via Bootcamp or compatible virtualization software)

The Apogee Symphony Desktop Audio Interface: Unmatched Sound Quality And Performance

The Apogee Symphony Desktop Audio Interface is a powerhouse of an interface that offers unparalleled sound quality and performance. With a range of features and capabilities, the Symphony Desktop is the perfect choice for anyone who demands the highest level of sound quality from their recording equipment. Let’s take a closer look at what sets the Symphony Desktop apart from other interfaces on the market.

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1.  Superior Sound Quality: Apogee Sound Quality Advantage

The Symphony Desktop’s sound quality advantage is thanks to Apogee’s innovative circuit design that delivers detailed, transparent, and ultra-low distortion analog circuitry. This means that every nuance of your recordings will be captured with stunning clarity and fidelity. In addition, the Symphony Desktop’s mic preamps are some of the best in the industry, with variable impedance settings to accommodate any microphone you may use. The instrument input also has a variable impedance setting that emulates the input impedance of a British solid-state amplifier, allowing for authentic amp emulation.

Symphony AD/DA in a Desktop Interface

The Apogee Symphony Desktop is a sleek and compact desktop audio interface that packs the same Symphony AD/DA conversion technology found in Apogee’s flagship Symphony I/O Mk II into a compact form factor. With up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution and an ultra-low distortion and high slew rate analog circuitry, the Symphony Desktop delivers stunning audio quality that is sure to elevate the sound of any home studio.

Apogee’s mic preamps deliver superior performance with any source

The Symphony Desktop’s mic preamps are based on Apogee’s Advanced Stepped Gain mic preamps and feature variable impedance settings that allow you to match the preamp to the specific needs of your microphone. With an ultra-low noise floor and a transient profile that is optimized for any source, the Symphony Desktop’s mic preamps deliver superior performance that is sure to make your recordings sound their best.

Alloy Mic Preamp emulation adds grit and character to your recordings

In addition to the Symphony Desktop’s mic preamps, Apogee has included an Alloy Mic Preamp emulation that adds character and grit to your recordings. Based on British solid-state and American tube preamp designs, the Alloy Mic Preamp emulation can be used to add warmth and character to any source.

2.  Simultaneous Channels: A Powerful USB Audio Interface

The Symphony Desktop is a powerful USB audio interface that offers simultaneous I/O of up to 10 x 14, allowing for a range of recording options. The interface includes 2 mic/line/instrument inputs, 4 analog outputs, and 8 digital inputs and outputs. Additionally, there is an optical TOSLINK ADAT input that can be used to expand the number of digital inputs available. With the Symphony ECS Channel Strip and Apogee Native FX plugins, you can take advantage of hardware DSP to create print FX or monitor FX while recording with zero latency.

Analog Outputs: Hardware DSP and Channel FX

The Symphony Desktop’s analog outputs feature high-quality hardware DSP and Channel FX, allowing you to add warmth, depth, and character to your recordings. The Symphony Desktop’s analog outputs can be used to monitor your recordings with or without the Symphony ECS Channel Strip and Apogee Native FX plugins. The Symphony ECS Channel Strip includes EQ, compression, and saturation, while the Apogee Native FX plugins include EQ, dynamics, and reverbs.

Computer Connectivity: Digital Inputs and Outputs

The Symphony Desktop’s digital inputs and outputs allow for seamless computer connectivity. The interface includes two digital inputs and four digital outputs, which can be used for a range of applications, including integrating with digital mixing consoles or other digital audio workstations.

3.  A full range of low-latency workflow options for maximum flexibility

The Symphony Desktop offers a variety of low-latency plugin workflows that allow you to monitor and record with zero latency while using Apogee’s hardware DSP to process your audio. With support for both USB and optical TOSLINK digital inputs, as well as analog inputs and outputs, the Symphony Desktop offers a full range of workflow options that are sure to meet the needs of any home studio.

Latency: Plugin Workflows and Zero Latency Recording

With the Symphony Desktop’s hardware DSP and Apogee’s unique connector software control, plugin workflows are seamless and intuitive. And with zero-latency recording, you can monitor your recordings in real-time, ensuring that you capture every nuance of your performance. The Symphony Desktop’s dynamic touchscreen display makes it easy to adjust your settings on the fly, giving you the freedom to focus on your creativity.

4.  Work the way you want to with Symphony Desktop and Apogee FX Plugins

With the Symphony Desktop, you have the power to customize your recording and mixing workflows to fit your specific needs. Whether you prefer to work with a DAW or prefer to record directly to your computer, the Symphony Desktop gives you the flexibility to do it all. With Apogee’s DualPath Link technology, you can easily integrate the Symphony Desktop with your favorite DAW and use it as a standalone device, so you can switch between the two as needed. Plus, the Symphony Desktop is compatible with both Mac and Windows operating systems, giving you even more flexibility.

Apogee FX plug-ins add a pro-level sheen to your tracks

The Symphony Desktop comes bundled with Apogee’s Native FX plugins, which include EQ, compression, and reverb processors that are modeled after classic studio gear. These plugins offer a pro-level sheen to your tracks and can be used to add polish and character to your recordings.

The Apogee FX Plugins that come with the Symphony Desktop are designed to add a professional touch to your recordings. With a wide range of plugins available, you can add compression, reverb, EQ, and more to your tracks. The plugins are easy to use, with intuitive controls that allow you to dial in the perfect sound. Plus, they are all built with Apogee’s advanced processing technology, so you can be sure that they will sound great and work seamlessly with the Symphony Desktop. Whether you’re recording vocals, guitar, or any other instrument, the Apogee FX Plugins are the perfect addition to your recording setup.

5.  Intuitive and Powerful Touch Screen and Desktop Control Applications

Apogee understands that the user interface is a crucial aspect of any digital audio workstation, which is why they have invested in creating an intuitive and powerful touch screen and desktop control application for the Symphony Desktop. The touch screen display offers easy access to all of the device’s functions and settings, allowing you to quickly and easily adjust the gain, monitor levels, and FX settings of each channel.

Moreover, the desktop control application provides even more control over the Symphony Desktop, giving you the ability to manage your recordings, mixes, and FX plugins with ease. The software features a customizable user interface that lets you create and save your preferred workflow, so you can get your work done faster and more efficiently. With the Symphony Desktop and its intuitive touch screen and desktop control applications, you’ll have everything you need to create professional-quality recordings, mixes, and masters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Apogee Symphony Desktop Audio Interface is a powerful and versatile interface that delivers unmatched sound quality and performance. With its superior mic preamps, variable impedance settings, hardware DSP, and channel FX, the Symphony Desktop is the perfect choice for any recording situation. Whether you’re a professional musician or a home studio enthusiast, the Symphony Desktop is the ultimate USB audio interface.

Read More: Apogee Symphony Duet 3 Review

Frequently asked Questions

1.    What is the Apogee Symphony Desktop Audio Interface?

The Apogee Symphony Desktop is a USB audio interface designed for professional-level recording, mixing, and mastering in a compact desktop form factor. It features high-quality AD/DA conversion, mic preamps with variable impedance settings, Apogee’s Alloy Mic Preamp Emulation, and a range of low-latency workflow options.

2.    How many mic preamps does the Symphony Desktop have?

The Symphony Desktop has 2 mic preamps with variable impedance settings that can accommodate a wide range of microphones.

3.    What type of connectivity does the Symphony Desktop have?

The Symphony Desktop features USB Type-C connectivity and includes two 1/4″ instrument inputs, four 1/4″ line inputs, two XLR mic/line inputs, two 1/4″ headphone outputs, two XLR main outputs, and optical TOSLINK and SPDIF digital inputs and outputs.

4.    What are the Apogee Native FX plugins?

The Apogee Native FX plugins are a suite of software plugins included with the Symphony Desktop that provide high-quality EQ, compression, and reverb processing. These plugins are designed to integrate seamlessly with the Symphony Desktop hardware and provide a pro-level sheen to your tracks.

5.    What is the Apogee Sound Quality Advantage?

The Apogee Sound Quality Advantage refers to the superior sound quality of Apogee’s hardware and software products. The company is known for its high-quality AD/DA conversion, mic preamps, and other audio components, which are designed to deliver the highest possible fidelity and transparency in audio recording and playback.

6.    Can I use the Symphony Desktop with a Windows computer?

Yes, the Symphony Desktop is compatible with Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later, and can be used with a range of DAW software on Windows, as well as on macOS.

7.    What is the Symphony ECS Channel Strip?

The Symphony ECS Channel Strip is a software plugin included with the Symphony Desktop that provides high-quality EQ, compression, and other processing capabilities. It is designed to work seamlessly with the Symphony Desktop hardware and provide a pro-level signal chain for your recordings.

8.    Does the Symphony Desktop have a hardware DSP?

Yes, the Symphony Desktop includes a hardware DSP that allows for low-latency monitoring and processing of audio signals, as well as support for Apogee’s Native FX plugins.

9.    How many simultaneous channels can the Symphony Desktop handle?

The Symphony Desktop can handle up to 10 input channels and 14 output channels simultaneously.

10. What is the latency of the Symphony Desktop?

The Symphony Desktop has ultra-low latency, with a round-trip latency of just 1.35ms when using Apogee’s DualPath Link mode. This allows for zero-latency recording and monitoring with the Symphony Desktop.

7.    Can I use the Symphony Desktop with Windows? 

Yes, the Symphony Desktop can be used with Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later, using the included software.

8.    What is the difference between the Symphony Desktop and the Symphony I/O Mk II?

The Symphony Desktop is a desktop audio interface with two mic preamps, while the Symphony I/O Mk II is a rack-mountable audio interface with a modular I/O design, allowing for greater customization and expansion.

9.    Can I use the Symphony Desktop to record guitar amps? 

Yes, the Symphony Desktop has two instrument inputs with variable impedance settings, allowing you to record guitar amps and other instruments with ease.

10. What is the Apogee Alloy Mic Preamp emulation? 

The Alloy Mic Preamp emulation is a feature of the Symphony Desktop that adds grit and character to your recordings, simulating the sound of a British solid-state mic preamp combined with an American tube mic preamp.

11. How do I control the Symphony Desktop? 

The Symphony Desktop can be controlled via the intuitive touch screen display on the front panel of the unit, or using the desktop control application on your computer.

12. Are there any latency issues when using the Symphony Desktop? 

No, The Symphony Desktop Has A Range Of Low-Latency Workflow Options, Including Hardware DSP And Apogee Native FX Plugins, To Ensure That You Can Work With Zero Latency.

13. Can I use Apogee FX plugins with other audio interfaces?

No, Apogee FX Plugins Are Designed Specifically To Work With Apogee Hardware, Including The Symphony Desktop.

14. Can I use the Symphony Desktop with my iOS device? 

Yes, The Symphony Desktop Can Be Used With Your IOS Device, Using The Included USB Type-C To Lightning Cable