Apogee Symphony MkI 8x8 Module (A8X8) – Key Functional Features

The Apogee Symphony MkI 8x8 Module (model A8X8) is a modular I/O expansion card for the Apogee Symphony I/O chassis (MkI). It delivers a total of up to 16 channels of high-quality audio input and output in a flexible analog + digital configuration.

Core I/O Capabilities

•  8 × 8 analog I/O: 8 balanced analog line inputs and 8 balanced analog line outputs via 25-pin D-Sub connectors (optional breakout cables required).

•  8 × 8 digital I/O: 8 channels of AES/EBU or optical digital input/output (selectable), available simultaneously with the analog channels for a combined total of up to 16 channels.

•  Optical digital formats supported:

•  ADAT: 8 channels at 44.1–48 kHz

•  SMUX: 8 channels at 88.2–96 kHz (across two TOSLink ports)

•  S/PDIF: 2 channels up to 96 kHz

•  Coaxial S/PDIF I/O: Stereo (2-channel) S/PDIF input and output up to 192 kHz on RCA connectors. The input can replace a pair of analog or digital channels; the output can mirror any pair of analog or digital outputs (routing controlled in Apogee Maestro software).

•  Hardware Dig I/O switch: Rear-panel switch selects between AES/EBU and optical digital formats (requires power cycle after switching).

Audio Performance

•  24-bit resolution with sample rates up to 192 kHz.

•  Ultra-low latency A/D and D/A conversion.

•  Enhanced Apogee C777 clocking for improved stability and performance.

•  Refined circuitry with a shorter audio path for greater clarity, transparency, and efficient power distribution.

•  High-quality conversion specs typical of Apogee’s flagship designs (low THD+N and high dynamic range).

Connectivity & Compatibility

•  Fits one of the two module slots in the Symphony I/O MkI chassis.

•  Compatible with Symphony I/O MkI systems; also usable in many MkII chassis configurations (as a 1st-generation module).

•  Analog and AES connections require optional breakout cables (various configurations available).

•  Works alongside other compatible modules (e.g., mic preamp cards in certain setups) for system expansion up to 32 channels total per chassis.

This module is designed for professional studio use, offering flexible analog and digital connectivity with Apogee’s renowned conversion quality in a modular format.