Apollo for Live usage

[ebber]

Hi,
I’m looking to upgrade my live setup to integrate UAD plugins like the API Channel Strip and Pultec EQs, which I already use extensively in Luna for studio mixing. I’d like to achieve a consistent sound between live and studio environments. However, I’m unsure which of the new Apollo Gen2 hardware would best suit my needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the typical input requirements for my band, depending on the lineup:
• 3-5 Vocal Mics
• 1x Electric Guitar DI
• 1x Electric Guitar Mic
• 2x Acoustic Guitar DIs
• 1x Bass DI
• 2x Keyboard DIs
• 2-4x E-Drum DIs (Kick and Snare separate)
• (Optional: 1x Violin Mic)
• (Optional: 1x Saxophone Mic)
This means I need:
• 4-8 Mic Inputs
• 9-11 Line Inputs
• Total Inputs: 13-19

Currently, I’m using a Soundcraft UI24R, which has enough inputs and allows convenient remote control via iPads, as well as multitrack recording directly to a USB stick and a MacBook running Luna via USB. The issue is that the Soundcraft doesn’t support digital outputs like Dante, ADAT, or any other multi-channel digital connections aside from USB.

From what I understand, the ideal solution might be using 3x Apollo x8p Gen2 interfaces, and routing everything through them instead of the Soundcraft. However, I have a few concerns and questions about this approach:

1. Is this setup viable for live use with the input requirements above?
2. Can I use UAD plugins live (e.g., API Channel Strips, Pultec EQs) with the Apollo interfaces to shape the mix in real-time, or would I need even more DSP via UAD Satellites or something?
3. Would this mean I’d lose iPad remote control functionality that I currently have with the Soundcraft?
4. Would I need to connect the Apollos exclusively to a MacBook, and would that limit flexibility for live remote control?

Any advice or alternative solutions would be greatly appreciated! If there’s a way to integrate UAD gear while keeping some of the workflow convenience of the Soundcraft, I’d love to hear it.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Joe Porto]

You'd need multiple Apollos and a computer in your scenario, as there is a 16 channel limit. There is no dedicated iPad app, but there are generic apps, but not suited to live use, easily adjusting plugins, etc.

If you're comfortable mixing only on an iPad, I'd wait on the Behringer Wing Rack. Similar to the X32, it has excellent iPad control including easy access to FX and monitor controls. I've mixed shows on an X32 and iPad and have no complaints. And the Wing can record live multitrack to memory card for mixing in the studio.

 

[flandybob]

That seems like a lot of hassle and money for live use vs existing dedicated solutions

 

[ebber]

Yes.. guess I will stay with the Soundcraft rack which does the job well, until UA have something similar hopefully some day

 

[JohnR1]

Would seem better to let an intended digital mixer handle all the channels, aux/monitor feeds, matrix's and mains. You could just do a Twin, x4 or if you need it racked the x6 and run the Soundcraft L/R Mains through the Apollo Console on laptop or mini. Might even be able to take advantage of Bass Management if your running tops and subs along with all the killer plug in options for the Main Mix.