User Manual
Apollo x8 Hardware Manual Interconnections 34
Apollo Expanded: Multi-Unit Thunderbolt 3 Wiring
The diagram below illustrates an example of how to interconnect multiple Apollo units
and the host computer via Thunderbolt 3.
Important: For complete details about system operation when multi-unit
cascading, see the Apollo Software Manual.
Connecting multiple Apollo X units via Thunderbolt 3
Apollo Expanded Wiring Notes
• Apollo X-series units with Thunderbolt 3 can be mixed with older Apollo units with
Thunderbolt 2 by using compatible Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapters.
• Apollo device ordering and Thunderbolt ports used (second port on Apollo vs.
second port on computer, placement within daisy chain, etc) is not important.
• In this example diagram, Apollo x8 is the monitor (master) unit designated in the
Console Settings window. Connect speakers (including ALT speakers) and any cue
outputs to the monitor unit only.
• Do not interconnect any Word Clock, FireWire, ADAT, or MADI ports between any
Apollo units. All Apollo clocking is automatically managed via Thunderbolt.
• Up to four Apollo units and six UAD devices total can be combined within the
same system.
• The computer and all Apollo/UAD units must be connected to the same
Thunderbolt bus.
Note: On Mac systems only, Apollo x8 can be connected to Thunderbolt 1 and
Thunderbolt 2 computers via the Apple Thunderbolt 3 to Thunderbolt 2 adapter.
Visit help.uaudio.com for details.
S/PDIF
ADAT S/MUX
POWER IN
+12VDC 9.0A
WORD CLOCK
35
6 4
2
1
MONITOR
R
L
4
6 2
135
1
2
75 Ω
TERM
OUTPUT (ALT/SURROUND)
7
LINE INPUT
8
7
4 3
MIC INPUT
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
MONITOR
R
L
POWER IN
+12VDC 9.0A
WORD CLOCK
75 Ω
TERM
LINE OUT 1-8 (ALT SURROUND)
LINE IN 1-8
12345678
MIC/LINE INPUTADAT S/MUX
UNIVERSAL AUDIO, INC.
MIC/LINE 1
MIC/LINE 2
3 L
4 R
LINE OUT MONITOR
OPTICAL IN
OFF ON
POWER
Expander Unit
Monitor Unit
Thunderbolt 3
Computer
IMPORTANT: Connect speakers
and cue outputs to Monitor Unit ONLY
Expander Unit
Monitor Speakers
ALT Speakers
TB3 to TB2 Adapter