Apollo x4 constantly disconnects from Mac

[Mike Lachelt]

Hi all,

I bought an Apollo x4 about a month ago and have been using it with my MacBook Pro with an M1 chip. It constantly disconnects from my Mac, often 5 or 6 times an hour, sometimes more. It seems to have gotten worse over the past 2 weeks, to the point where it is hardly useable at all. Often, turning the Apollo off and then on again will bring about a reconnection, but often it doesn’t, leaving me unable to use it for long periods.

Reading through this forum indicates that there are countless examples of this very problem. I have not seen a single example where a solution has been found. My conclusion is that the Apollo SIMPLY DOES NOT WORK with a wide range of very popular, high quality Macintosh computers — at the very least, those with M1 chips.

This is quite heartbreaking. I assume there’s no resolution. (If there is, why has NO ONE who has discussed this problem posted the fix?). So, rather than ask for a solution, I’ll ask instead if there’s anyone out there with an M1 Mac for whom the Apollo actually works properly?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[Joe Porto]

I’ve seen issues with TB2 Apollos losing connection with Apple silicon Mac’s when using a TB3>TB2 adapter, but don’t recall Apollo X series being reported as problematic. I have an M1 Studio and M2 MBP that both work with x16 and x8p with no issues.

I have seen issues where Mac sleep can cause disconnects. I prevent my DAW computer from sleeping as a rule. Maybe try that if you haven’t yet. Also, I assume you’ve tried a different TB3 cable?

 

[Bruce_Sokolovic]

Obvious troubleshooting, have you tried a different cable?

 

[LesBrown]

if there’s anyone out there with an M1 Mac for whom the Apollo actually works properly?

I would guess at least half, and probably most, Apollo users are on M1 or newer Macs.

I have never had a disconnect issue while using my Apollos on 2 different M1s. The problem you are experiencing is not a typical Apollo/M1 issue.

 

[UniversalAudio]

I’ll ask instead if there’s anyone out there with an M1 Mac for whom the Apollo actually works properly?

All of them?

What has Support had you try so far? We sell a TON of these to TONS of Apple silicon users and all is well.

I'd work with Support to find your issue. Sorry you're not having a good experience so far, but there is an answer to it.

 

[JamesNorth]

Flawless here since M1 launched.

I’d definitely try another cable.

 

[JohnR1]

Once upon a time ago I had the same problem with an Apollo x4 connected to a MacBook, turned out to be failing TB3 cable. Replaced and never had a problem after that. The USB-C/TB3/4 always seems to be a bit jiggly to me as it is, especially when connected to stuff that might be moving around while in use. Although with quality cables and newer computers it does seem to lock in a lot better.