User's Manual

Apollo Solo Manual Working With Apollo Solo 43
Essential Apollo Solo Concepts
Apollo Solo’s basic audio interface functionality with a DAW operates the same as other
typical (non-DSP) interfaces. However, Apollo Solo has unique features in addition to
those of a typical audio interface.
To take advantage of Apollo Solo’s unique low-latency input monitoring, Realtime UAD
Processing, and UAD-2 DSP accelerator features, there are some core differences in how
to operate the DAW with Apollo Solo versus most audio interfaces.
The companion Console application is used to control Apollo Solo’s unique features.
Understanding the interactions between Apollo Solo, Console, and the DAW will help you
optimize workflows.
Note: To learn how to operate the DAW with basic audio interface functionality,
consult the DAW documentation.
The DAW Environment
To get the most from your Apollo Solo system and LUNA Recording System, it will help
to understand the core concepts and terms below, which are integral to digital audio
workstation workflows. These terms are used when describing how to operate Apollo Solo
and Console.
Input Monitoring
Input Monitoring is the process of listening to live inputs, such as when an artist is
performing with a musical instrument and/or vocals. When the artist has great input
monitoring, they may deliver a more inspired performance.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to use Console or LUNA for input monitoring when
working with a DAW so you can take advantage of Apollo Solo’s Realtime UAD Processing
for great input sounds.
Input Latency
Various sources of audio latency (time delay) are inherent in all digital audio systems.
However, latency is normally only an issue when an artist is input monitoring their
performance through headphones or speakers.
If what is heard in headphones arrives later than when the sound is produced, the
performance may be compromised. Using Console or LUNA eliminates input latency
when monitoring, tracking, and/or overdubbing with a DAW.