Universal Audio New Apollo Twin X USB Audio Interface Expands Realtime UAD Processing on Windows Computers

Universal Audio released its new Apollo Twin X USB desktop audio interface. Normally the company works with hardware and software designed to work with Macs and macOS. This one looks similar to existing Apollo units, and features the same A/D and D/A conversion inherited directly from the Apollo X rackmount with 24-bit/192kHz audio I/O. In this case, adding USB 3 connectivity (USB-C connector) for Windows, instead of Thunderbolt.

As always, Schiit Audio stirs up the world of home audio with its unique perspective of the hi-fidelity audio chain. This time, Schiit announced Urd, a complete re-invention of a CD player component, now designed as a hub for an entire modern digital audio system. It's basically a CD transport with USB output and digital outs, and a USB hub that can be connected to streamers and other digital sources using the company's Unison USB architecture - now updated for modern USB-C connectors (applause). Urd is available today, from $1299.

Schiit Audio announced the availability of Yggdrasil+, its flagship True Multibit DAC, now updated, featuring a choice of D/A converter options, remote control, non-oversampling (NOS) mode, and phase inversion. The Yggdrasil+ combines performance and value in a high-end DAC, together with the peace of mind of a fully modular platform that is ready for the future. Yggdrasil+ prices start at $2,299 and top out at $2,799, depending on D/A and finish options.

Schiit Audio announced the immediate availability of its Unison USB input for all of its upgradable DACs (Bifrost, Gungnir, and Yggdrasil.) Unison USB is Schiit's unique, proprietary USB input that is the result of 2 person-years of development, running on a general-purpose Microchip microprocessor. According to Schiit, the new Unison USB board provides superior performance at very low current draw from the host, as well as complete electromagnetic and electrostatic isolation.

Schiit Audio just released the Asgard 3 amp and modular DAC, and the Bifrost2, the company's latest DAC that features a leap forward in USB technology. As Jason Stoddard, the founder and lead designer of Schiit Audio, explains "what do you do when it’s time to replace both of the products that started it all? I mean literally — Asgard was our first product period, Bifrost was our first digital product, and both started out being built in a garage. Well, here’s what we do: rethink everything."