I DID NOT EXPECT THIS - Neumann MT48 vs UA Apollo X4 Audio Interfaces

[@EdThorne]

➡ Hi-Res Audio & Specification Comparison Charts ⬅ 🔥 edthorne.com/exclusive-content 🔥

[@cortical1]

Props to you for doing this. I did my own comparison and actually came out the other way. I have a hybrid studio with a lot of analog outboard gear and after a side-by-side comparison felt like the MT 48 sounded clearer to me (AD/DA by DAW and by outboard gear); more transparent and less colored. I also preferred the mic preamps and headphone amps over those on the X4. Of note, I have Neumann monitors. Your subjective judgments about which frequency ranges are more stifled or more pronounced in the two interfaces are really valuable and helpful, but why not then compare them with objective measurements from the devices? For example, if you perceive a pronounced accentuation around 250 Hz in one interface, it would be really useful then to use the precise metrics available to see if the actual measurements of the sound reflect those relative subjective perceptions. Same for all judgments about all different frequency ranges (e.g., more air in the high end). The controlled comparisons can be done. This would then help identify whether perceived/subjective differences between the two interfaces were driven measurable output differences or primarily by idiosyncratic differences in hearing and sound preferences (which are well known in the field of psychoacoustics). Thanks! Great job on something I'm guessing many people will find useful.

[@aaronthomas7790]

We all hear things subtly different I guess. I had a twin and switched to the MT 48 and sounds incredible. I bought a X4 because I do really love the plugins for tracking especially, but the sound after using Neumann for months was just way too muddy and 2 dimensional. Especially if you're using analog gear I thought the conversion was vastly better. Headphones I can hear compression and little changes way easier. I just wish they had more dsp options like UAD. Also touch screen and not having to touch my computer is great.

[@EdThorne]

That’s great. I’m glad you’re enjoying it.

[@NIGHTANDDAY770]

I own both of these and I feel the MT 48 far exceeds apollo in terms of sound quality, workflow, and overall user experience

[@EdThorne]

Seems to be nixed opinions in the comments.

[@lucas_fpro]

any feedback about a autotune real time ? I hesitate because of this...

[@sonicgold5857]

I hesitated too, But I noticed I didn’t need auto tune as much, it was easier to record vocals, in part because the sound is so much better, and the monitoring on the headphones is superior.

[@Neekzu]

@@lucas_fpro Just use gig performer. Much better than any apollo.

[@HISCHILD832]

I have a antelope zen go and want to see if switching to Neumann 48 would be better?

[@dionyates2482]

Vocal sounded far better through the Neumann. None of that whiny frequency which came through the Apollo. I wouldn't say the MT 48 was 'stifled' at all.

[@michael.petraeus]

I didn't feel the Apollo was open and more airy at all. It sounded like the guy was stuck in a box. Neumann sounds so much better for voice it's not even close. I had no idea an interface could make such a massive difference.

[@ILLUDIUM_Q_36]

Would love to see a companion between the Neumann MT 48 and the Apogee Symphony Desktop. 🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@grantos]

I've never thought Apollo's sounded good but that's to my ears. I've been an Apogee guy for a while but the Neumann seems like a nice alternative.

[@brunohenriquenascimentosiq3966]

MT 48 le ganó en todo para mí, mucho más detalle y claro. Saludos amigo 😄

[@antoniolausinrabelo6142]

Joder que sordera, mas detalle? Si tiene un exceso de bajos y una falta de detalles que espanta, para neumann suena a interface de 500 euros. Y eso que los apollo no me han gustado nunca pero le patea el trasero que da gusto

[@nlamste3]

Thank you for the comparison! Love your honest review! I mean, every ‘paid’ reviewer is surprised by the BIG improvement of the MT48. While nobody ever cared to look at the Merging Anubis, now that is from Neumann it suddenly is top of class! Yeah right 😜 I think both devices look and sound great, and will attract different audio enthousiast! And therefor I enjoyed your view and the work you put into it!

[@EdThorne]

Bath devices do sound good. I was nitpicking minute details for sure. Thanks for appreciating the video 😊

[@pradeepplaypiano]

One of the paid reviewer even went on to say --> Throw away all your trash and get this MT48 🤣🤣. The most funniest thing is that the majority of these paid reviewers of MT48 still use Apollo's for their music production either in Rack or Desktop version.

[@EdThorne]

Lol. I wasn’t paid for this review and I have to send both devices back.

[@nlamste3]

I just find it funny that everyone now is raving about this device which has been on the market a while now. But to disgard all other interfaces as trash. 😂 Also the ‘clean’ as possible argument is strange. Why do we want to use vintage microphones and amplifiers etc if we do not want that specific sound? But everyone is entitled to their opinion and taste 🎵

[@pradeepplaypiano]

@@EdThorne I trust you my brother. All your reviews are pure and honest. I been following you since past three years and your comparison video have helped me to choose appropriate products. As I live in Scotland, we have very few musical stores around with less varieties of gear to try .So your reviews really helps to make a decision.

[@seanlewguitar]

Copy-pasta, spent time typing it for another comment, thought why not "Bit late, but had the DA shot out against the RME ADI-2 DAC FS R, and the Apollo Twin X, as well as many other like Motu M4, Arturia Audiofuse, older Apogee and the MT48 wins bar none, it's not even close, and on both the speaker outs and headphones. Which is surprising especially when it came to the RME, which was much more expensive price per channel, and has superior DA chip specs. It all comes down to implementation and neumann is one of the best at that. Also talked to a guy that has experience with lots of very expensive gear, runs a trinnov direct out for his studio, and he says the only converters that can surpass it are the super high-end rack mounted converters. AD-wise it's the best I've personally tried, tho I've not done very detailed side-to-side comparison. The AD conversion itself is better than the built-in one on a Neve 88M (used the sends from 88M's pre), and miles ahead my old Arturia Audiofuse, which I thought was already really good. Specs wise the AD chip is higher spec'ed than the one in the Apollo Twin X, also a few voiceover channels had reviewed the AD. For an audible grasp you can check out this vid by Jack Spade titled "The Best Audio Interface under $2000). I'm obviously passionate about this interface as it has improved my working life so much over the past few months of ownership. The few downsides tho, are that I get freezes about 2% of the time (still records and plays, but settings are frozen until restart), it takes close to a minute to start up, and it runs rather hot and requires good ventilation."

[@fanessmusic3841]

I have a couple clients that like to hear themselves on the mic with autotune in realtime, can you do this with a MT48?

[@EdThorne]

No. Yes on the Apollo.

[@thewatchmanstudios6257]

I have had access to both interfaces , and it wasn't even close. The MT48 was significantly cleaner, higher gain preamps. tons of headroom

[@mixphantom0101]

I never expect much difference in this league... but, it sounded like you changed mics for the vocals! The Neumann sounded more "honest" to me. I have always found the highest quality gear sounds less exciting and almost disappointing because our expectations are based on polished recordings. The truth hurts! 😁

[@rockostiffredi4276]

There's a separation/ natural openness I really like in the Neumann (hel-lo Neumann) sound overall. It's possibly a fraction too open/ separated on the acoustic guitar, but I still preferred it. The Apollo sounded quite congested in comparison. Quite interesting comparison, and would like to know what the AD/DA chip technology is being used on the Neumann.

[@EdThorne]

Someone left a comment with the exact chip model numbers.

[@mattmarinelli5241]

Wow, it’s amazing how subjective hearing is. I truly agreed with your options on the sound differences and it appears many commenters disagree 🤷‍♂️. Maybe they like to work harder to get a better sound 😂. The pre-amps and AD/DA conversion on the Apollo sound better. They reproduce a fuller, fatter, and bolder sound. They almost sound like they introduce an fet compressor in the signal. This is my opinion, and I have better ears than those who disagree. 😆 I’m not even an Apollo fan, but that was night and day. Neither unit comes without flaws. The Apollo x4 not having the different mix options for the monitor (besides trim control inside the console app) is a huge bummer. There should really be A/B gain locking or mix lock options for A/B/C monitoring. BUT… That touch screen is wonky on the Neumann and adjusting those little touch screen tabs would drive me bananas! I’m always for going with what sounds and operates better, never brand recognition bias… and I’m ALWAYS looking for a new underdog. Unfortunately, the Apollo X4 has my vote here…. Better sound from the get-go. NOW FOR MY CURIOSITY: Do any of the MT 48 fans ALSO enjoy the sound of the Yamaha HS series? Just a question 😆 Thanks for this thorough comparison!! 🖤

[@shannonmonroe1694]

Hey Ed. Great video as always. How much do you charge to record drums for a session?

[@EdThorne]

Thanks, Shannon. My up-to-date prices and details can be found on my website: edthorne.com/store What kind of track do you have in mind?

[@MathieuPrevot]

I agree with the sound observations. Technically I prefered the Appolo, but for the voice, it felt more natural with the MT48, and kind of less "technical". I wonder how a Prism sound titan / lyra 2 is positioned compared to those Apollo and MT48/Anubis.

[@Mopsie]

Kind of stupid there’s no mute button for the headphones. Or did I misunderstand this part?

[@cubaseman1487]

Mt 48 best for me❤

[@gravesg]

Listening to this review on an Apogee Symphony mk2, and it sounds like you recorded the majority of the audio for this video on the Apollo. The vocal audio has this high end hiss, that wasn't present on the MT-48 when your voice was going through it.

[@EdThorne]

I recorded the voice over audio through my Neve 1073-Wes Audio Hyperion (Dual mono mode)-Stam Audio SA3A-DBX 520 De-Esser-X16 line in (no preamp). Only the Apollo Birds Eye view walk through was recorded through the Apollo preamps.

[@billweaver2549]

Such an obvious change in sound (for the worse) when you switched from the N to the A at 7:07

[@EdThorne]

Bear in mind by that point I had EQ’d and compressed the MT48 audio using the on-board DSP. I think Apollo sounds better compared to the raw Neumann audio at the start of that segment.

[@domonickwilliams33]

How come nobody talks about the apogee symphony desktop it’s a 🔥 interface and compared to the mt 48 it’s close for less money

[@EdThorne]

A few people are suggesting this. I’ll consider a video.

[@jacksp8de]

I have it and it's fantastic. I still use my Apollos more because of the workflow and more analog sound

[@domonickwilliams33]

Please do

[@MichalMikulskiMM]

I wonder if you used the same channels on the splitter for every audio sample? It totally might be the splitter...

[@EdThorne]

The splitter is identical down each pathway.

[@LipazMusic]

Hmm… interesting comments. Now I’m really curious what all these “bro” engineers have been released in the past 5 years either with Apollo, RME, Neumann, Presonus, Focusrite etc. converters. And which of them finished on top of Billboard, in which order. #hardtofindbadconvertersnowadays #easytofindpunditgeeksthesedays No offense, just my two cents.

[@pradeepplaypiano]

Thanks for the comparison mate. I had owned them both. After comparing them both side by side, I felt Apollo sounded way better than the MT48. I returned MT48 last week and kept Apollo. In my honest opinion MT48 is very high on specs in paper with better conversion and headphone amplifier but on reality Apollo out performs with plethora of unison preamps and other effects plugins.

[@EdThorne]

Interesting you had a similar experience. Specs on paper are not everything for sure.

[@pradeepplaypiano]

@@EdThorne you are right mate.Even with my Neumann U87 microphone, I got the desired vocals in Apollo rather than MT48. I was really shocked as the MT48 is marketed as the only interface in the market that can unlock the full potentials of the Neumann mics. The touch screen on the Mt48 was slack and the software kept on crashing.

[@EdThorne]

Neumann are possibly suffering confirmation bias to justify buying an entire company. We all do it when we buy shiny new things 🤣

[@domonickwilliams33]

The mt 48 sounds muddy to my ears this is disappointing I was hoping that this would be my next interface guess not

[@bighousemusic628]

Bro its total garbage ive seen a video where a guy does a shootoit with it and a presonus quantum 4848 and to my surprise that old presonus desyroys that mt48

[@EdThorne]

Oh, that’s interesting about the Presonus comparison.

[@EdThorne]

I thought I’d even got the inputs the wrong way round at one point but triple checked and hadn’t. I was assuming it would be noticeably better.

[@bighousemusic628]

Sorry neuman but that merging technology 48 is too expensive sorry but i can get close too those dynamic range with a clarette+ or even a old presonus quantum

[@job-g8d]

my guess is, you haven't used the MT48 your self...

[@antoniolausinrabelo6142]

Im sorry but the people says neumann sounds better, have a wax inside in the ears. Apollo sounds better, and symphony desktop destroy neumann.

[@mattmarinelli5241]

😂

[@samiksax]

MT48 is capturing details with transparency whereas X4 in inconsistent. MT48 is a clear winner.

[@waves7300]

Apollo has a smearing sound, not horrible, but the Neumann is def smoother and more natural sounding

[@tompure8579]

The MT48 has more depth, three-dimensionality and a more natural character, which really shows off the instrument and the player, but above all better resolved bass and warmth coming from the AD. The Apollos in general sound a bit strained to me and not necessarily brighter or more in the middle. I find the mids to be rather unnatural and there is less depth. Better Converters have more depth generally. When it comes to the bass and the voice, you can clearly see how the microphone and the instrument are reproduced mercilessly on the MT48. With good converters you really notice how your pre-amp, microphone or instrument sounds. What's good about the Apollo is that it's not neutral and has a very musical, tape-like sound, but you have to like the mids too. I find more neutral converters better, you can form your signal with the pre-amp you trust in front of it. Thanks for the video and the comparison.

[@EdThorne]

Thanks for sharing your detailed thoughts.

[@job-g8d]

I have compared the Apollo Twin X to the Merging Anubis and to my ears the Anubis was so much better (especially the DA, monitors and headphones) . Now I have the Neumann MT 48 which is nearly identical to the Anubis sound wise. When people say the Neumann is overpriced or they are underwhelmed by it, I really can't relate to that. The Anubis and Neumann MT48 have been a complete Eye opener or better: ear-opener :-) That's just my honest opinion

[@seanlewguitar]

When you say nearly, what are the differences that you noticed? If it's not 100% identical.

[@CalebxRashad]

That Neumann on vocals sounded way more natural I would prefer that more so than the airyness. You can always add that in post.

[@gutshisalamanca1191]

Instant emotion in the performance..

[@EdThorne]

Fair comment.

[@ndavies8]

I actually thought the Opposite.

[@jacksp8de]

As a vocalist I prefer the Apollo airyness as this is where a lot of emotion is felt. I'm biased though because I have an x4 and x6 and I'm happy with my sound.

[@pradeepplaypiano]

@@jacksp8de I agree with you brother. I had owned both of them . Kept my Apollo while I returned MT48 back after 14 days.

[@Reggi_Sample]

The Neumann sounds more open in the highs more weight in the lows and more transient detail in the mids. That was a TKO

[@SaniBanks]

Regardless of sound quality, I think I would still go with Apollo just based on ease of use. MT48 is like having an additional computer. Thats not really conducive to my workflow personally. But I definitely can see how the MT48 can be a gamechanger for some.

[@huberttorzewski]

Neumann sounds smoother in the highs, Apollo is a bit harsh on the string attack and sibilance. I own Apollo 8p and I always need to low pass vocal recordings a bit to get rid of an excessive air. I use JZ mics as well and really like them

[@riasure]

Hey Ed, Still on the lookout for the RME UFX III or UCX II comparison, think that would make for some good content!

[@EdThorne]

It seems a lot of people are asking for this.

[@riasure]

@@EdThorne So….that’s settled,it’s time to give the people what they want😂!! On a serious loving the content and appreciate all the hard work that goes into it….when exactly do you get time to sleep?!

[@musiccreation1198]

Yeah, because for new purchases, UA interfaces aren't really competitive...the RME's are.@@EdThorne

[@agork]

Not great content. There is virtually no difference as the quality is exactly the same.

[@Rio-uv1gs]

How about Neumann mt 48 vs RME interfaces?

[@EdThorne]

A few people are asking for this. We’ll see

[@DJURBANBG]

RME destroys everything in every aspect

[@XxXHardcoreshredderxXXxxxxxxxx]

What is RME? and for guitars do you think the Apollo is better?​@@DJURBANBG

[@LaminarSound]

Dynamic range is not even remotely the largest factor in how great conversion sounds. I went from Apollo Twin X to my current RME Fireface UCX II and the difference was astounding. The soundstage, imagine, clarity and openness significantly improved with the RME, and the Apollo has a rate 12db more dynamic range. RME clearly have done the legwork and have been known for many years now as being in the mid to mid-top tier of interfaces on the market. Id be very interested in a mashup here between MT48 and UCXII.

[@DanBires]

I have an 8xp and I use external preamps for anything I do. They just out perform any interface preamps out there. When it comes to comparing these preamps the Apollo picks up more details and the Neumann has a more bass driven sound but smoother than the Apollo. Either way they are both really great interfaces for the money.

[@pradeepplaypiano]

I have both of these interfaces . I am bit disappointed with MT48 as I wanted it to outperform my Apollo. I get better results with Apollo. MT48 is very high on specs in papers while it does not quite deliver even with the so called Neumann U87 microphone.So I decided to keep the Apollo and decided to give back the Neumann MT48 within its 14 days return.

[@luisinter5097]

this guy hates Neumann. Comparing a mastering grade with a home studio interface does not make any sense... you should compare with RME, Lynx, DAD, Cranesong, Larvy, Prism.... ask you PSI friends what they think about their Swiss colleagues :)

[@seanriley9045]

The Neumann sounds so much more musical. I like the darker sound… to me it sounds more natural.

[@JohnnyMacaw]

Billie Eilish used an Apollo 8 first generation and got signed

[@natdenchfield8061]

Wow . Imagine if she used something else ... She'd be a nobody. Or maybe it is more about the songwriter, music and performeance that gets you signed, not the interface used .

[@mattmarinelli5241]

@@natdenchfield8061Actually the Apollo x8 wrote up her contracts for her.

[@natdenchfield8061]

@@mattmarinelli5241 Oh ... I'll try to get noticed by an Apollo x8. play my tracks throught it ..

[@SUPERNOVA.PRODUCER]

UAD fans will never admit that Apollo interfaces are not good, UAD interfaces are overrated, SSL 2 and SSL 2+ have better conversion than Apollo solo, Antelope Zen has better converters and cleaner preamps than Apollo Twin, any interface for that matter. Above 1k it exceeds all UAD interfaces. Merging anubis is the same as neumann, they have kinematic converters and the preamps with the most dynamic range on the market, forget about unison technology HAHA nonsense, here whoever works in audio understands that the only strength of uad is the stability (on mac) and the facilities for Live work due to low latency and DSP (for autotune use)

[@EdThorne]

The Solo is the bottom rung Apollo though, an X16 destroys the SSLs. I agree the Antelope pres and converters are possible the best out there - but good luck getting the software to work - it’s an utter shambles! I was disappointed the MT48 didn’t destroy the X4 as I’d assumed it would.

[@ndavies8]

@@EdThorne You're 100% right. I gave it a try recently and I thought too the the MT48 was going to blow Apollo away but I did not. They are both great interfaces but the UAD Ecosystem and YES Mac stability are strong points for UAD.

[@chucky3296]

@@ndavies8I didn’t like the Neumann especially when you’re using auto tune and many plugins it doesn’t sound as good as Apollo imo

[@waves7300]

I feel like these are bots commenting on this. They don’t have any content. I also respectfully feel like Apollo may be paying you to be slightly biased. I’ve seen other channels where it was quite the opposite and the Neumann had a more defined airy top end. I don’t make videos or anything, I just jam. I do like the content though

[@bighousemusic628]

Bro the mt48 is muddy admit the fact even audient outshine it not even close to focusrite scarlett 4th gen with the same preamp and converter found in their rednet flagship interfaces

[@DJSoulbrother]

I think Neumann missed the ball not having a spectrum analyzer on that screen hehe

[@EdThorne]

Good shout. Maybe it’ll come on an update.

[@michaelwirth6843]

Missed the ball? That's only possible in the hardware world, a simple update will solve that request.

[@michael.petraeus]

Neumann is so much better for voice that it's not even a competition. And it's not the first comparison I've heard. I'm shocked an interface could make such a big difference. The common view is that the differences in most cases are so minuscule they can only be picked up by audiophiles with pro headphones.

[@jeremyhogan8180]

Neumann sounds warmer, and more natural-ish. The apollo is still more pleasing to the ears imo. Sometimes a warm sound isn't what you need. And it seems like the Neumann has a sub focused "bias".

[@electropainted]

umm boy no accounting for taste lol. i have to say, i hear what you hear Ed, more open clean and spacious from the Apollo and warmer maybe more analog from the MT 48 but is it not easier to mellow out the Apollo than to open up the Neumann? not a pro, i'd happily trade my volt for either

[@bigbaby987]

That sparkly stuff is what makes me not want to go with the Apollo system. Most people think that's the better difference, but getting exactly what you're listening to is exactly what I want.

[@spinyheghog]

The mt48 does Dolby atmos monitoring now with the latest update. It also will offload the KH monitor Eq to the device off your pc. The eq is a 4 band version of the merging mastering 12 band. The d/a chip is a ESS tech Es9026 the a/d chip is a AkM AK5578 and you can change your dac filters in the menu if it’s too harsh or too much a roll. The system can bridge between Adat, usb, Aes67, and it works with Dante but at a fixed rate 48k with Dante device in Aes67 mode. It is a dumb down version of the Anubis with usb c and adat kind of a trade. It will also run on Linux, windows and Mac. It also has as low a latency as 6ms round trip

[@EdThorne]

Great info. Thanks for sharing! Interesting about the Atmos set up. That makes it VERY appealing.

[@fattohead]

MT48 doesn't have enough outputs. How can it run 7.4.1 speakers simultaneously for atmos?

[@spinyheghog]

@@fattohead aes67 is one option or you get more i/o for analog it can use both headphone out and both monitor at the same time. The routing is extensive. You get full control of your outs and can easily tap through different mix downs, phase in and out individual speakers and it gives a 12 point eq to the sound ID profile that you can also cycle through

[@coreychambersmusic]

THANK YOU for this comparison video. I agree, the Apollo sounded much better! Subscribed now! Cheers mate!

[@itsrob2321]

I really think confirmation bias is so strong in all subjective reviews. I long ago quit worrying about "is my Apollo good enough"? I moved up to Apollo from RME, which I consider excellent, because UAudio is a legendary player in pro audio and they honestly make great everything. I love Neumann as well, but try to choose one in a blind test and see if you can pick the "winner" every time. I think we want one to win, because we own it, or because it has a great brushed silver finish... and we love the sound of one over the other. People, the first time you turn a knob on your mix, it becomes something different. Don't get me wrong, I too want the magic sauce that blows my mind, but here we are in 2024 wondering if new audio is better than old audio? What about you iPhone? I dare say the audio out of those "converters" are pretty darn good. Do phones have ADC or DAC? How does it change when you change to a different phone? of listen on something else? Cheers my friend. Just food for thought as they say.... Ha

[@plefevre]

I preferred the X4 in each case.

[@jacksp8de]

I felt a little worried getting a x6 to go with my x4 recently since its so old, but I'm so glad I did. I love the conversion personally. I think the x6 sounds slightly better than the x4 but maybe it's just me. The workflow with Apollo is unmatched. I have an M1 Pro and the DSP is still really helpful especially performing with Autotune. To top that off Luna is a GAME CHANGER. The sound is better than any other DAW. I also have an Apogee Symphony Desktop and it sounds great. Super wide stereo field and it may be slightly better for mixing although to my ears it sounds a little thinner than the Apollos. The latency can be an issue when using Autotune so I mostly use the Apollo 90% of the time.

[@harveynkosi6356]

I keep seeing these comparisons, but UA got this interface just right... im Apollo for life, for the same reasons

[@jacksp8de]

​@@harveynkosi6356 I feel you man! I do want to see them update them with better conversion but for its still my choice right now.

[@christopherpederson1021]

i am sure they will update them in the near future. they are due@@jacksp8de

[@rushinsteele257]

There comes a time when technology becomes too much for a old guy like myself. Menu diving and all the things that become time consuming can steal from my minds creative process. I wish Apogee would upgrade the drivers to my element to work on silicone chips. It’s so simple. Sounds good. It just converts and doesn’t control ME! … I can use my 500 rack outboard gear (I can bypass the interface preamps) … there’s no new interfaces as simple. I wish there was.

[@EdThorne]

Check out the Neve interface. That does exactly what you desire: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJWpmIavZdata8Usi=8kqgA5DXywMQt9ng

[@Bcwilderness]

capture is what counts i kept my prism

[@atta1798]

Good comparison review. Best to correlate them professionally as converters thats is flatness, transparency, noise floor, dynamic range to interfaces, flexibility n last add ons. Next whats best as per the user needs, ...best professional recording...one can always buy a low end converters n full any plugins package n start a studio ....the masses will never know the details.. So the MT48 beats Apollo's...for transparency n audio conversion...that will depend on the listeners ears and experience in the field to notice. Now unless we properly developed our ears and the audio engineering facts .... It is a matter of your own preference that is OK....nothing wrong with that ...but the question remains: As a producer artist etc....don't we want the best quality? N that's also how to each person but not to audio engineering facts Again you can buy the Apollo with all add ons but the producer w the MT48 will have quality productions etc ....not to go into further details

[@Aditya_Paliwal_9]

Exactly, couldn't agree more. Quality over Quantity 🙏

[@doerrjams5770]

If UAD put Dante I/O integration as an option in future Apollos, I’d put a deposit down now. The existing Apollo feature set is perfect for the studio work I do, but I have weekly live stream mixing via DAW within a Dante live sound environment so for now, my Audio interface options remain limited to Dante capable devices. I’ll keep hoping though. Love the Apollo workflow and sound.

[@krissheehy]

"AND IF YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF THAT... neither have I..." LOL. Great review Ed! Thank you for the content!

[@EdThorne]

Haha. Thanks!

[@SpaceMagix]

What a great comparison! Precise, cristal clear articulated & compared. I'd prefer the X4 as well, but ...

[@EdThorne]

Thanks. But what…? Please don’t keep us in suspense🤣

[@andrewtk.455]

The Question is being a current Apollo user does the Apollo actually capture more hi end frequencies accurately or is it creating a hardness in the transients that isn't there? Theres this hardness edge that a lot of converters have that you don't actually here in real life. If the Neumann is smoother and richer/ more 3-D than thats cool! :)

[@mylogify]

RME vs Neumann MT48 comparison also would be very cool.

[@EdThorne]

A few people are asking for this.

[@S.U.K_33_World]

@@EdThorne You have to compare the MT48 with the RME please.

[@pabloclevenot9049]

Also UFX III vs Apollo 8 would be awesome

[@aeonlancer]

I wonder if the Neumann MT 48 is comparable to the Apogee Symphony Desktop

[@EdThorne]

I haven’t tried a Symphony.

[@nucentury08]

I've Owned the Symphony Desktop it's a Close Match.

[@AlecBridges]

I have had Symphony and the Merging version of this Neumann. Merging/Neumann sounds better to me. No contest. It sounds more natural and has more weight/impact. Pair the MT48 with the merging HAPI and you will never need another interface.

[@keithdunwoody1302]

Ed, I concur with you on the sound test. The proof of the pudding is in the eating. The x4 is more open and less stuffy sounding. Too much low end bloom on the MT48, not enough air for my taste. I'm listening on a PreSonus Studio192 with Burr Brown converters through Sennheiser HD600 headphones.

[@stayinspired2027]

Are you sure your not hearing crossover distortion and and other sonic flaws like jitter in the Apollo conversion? wheres this top end in real life? What actually sounds more like the guitar in real life?

[@Studio22mix]

If I had money for a new interface it would be a converter, since I need a lot of io I would go for the Ferrofish A32 without doubt 😊

[@deeppc]

MT48 is much superior in terms of sound quality hands down… much better clarity and separation… I think u are an UAD fanboy.. thats okay… no offence… :))

[@EdThorne]

We all hear differently. There’s merits to each interface, as outlined in the video. If you think it’s biased feel free to move on 🙂

[@smtonlinevideos]

Excellent review! I preferred the sound of the Apollo as well. My only hesitation is not being able to bypass the internal preamps. Do you think this will affect the sound of my external preamps in any significant way?

[@chenxi1619]

well. actually it would require at least 100 times regeneration to make the preamp noise audibly louder than line in. besides, you can't bypass the preamp even on the mt48

[@petesmith6434]

The MT48 touchscreen size is much too small for many users to see well and to use fingers to make accurate adjustments. Not everyone has 20 year-old eyes and fingers; in fact, many users are much older. Also, the lack of external DSP plugins support is a deal breaker if the studio plans to record live musicians and use effects (other than those few basic effects built-into the MT48) during tracking.

[@ALiGzz]

That's why they have an mixer app for you to use on your computer just like UAD.

[@petesmith6434]

@@ALiGzz However, they still lack support for external DSP plugins. In addition, the UAD DSP plugins can be inserted directly into a DAW and run on the UA devise without the need for a separate app. The MT48 has too many fatal flaws for use in our studio.

[@natdenchfield8061]

Can the UA use those plugins in a standalone mode, not connected to a computer? The MT-48 is a self-contained mixing device/hub, network enabled too (so you can control it, send/receive audio remotely ... even another country). They really have completely different use cases ... but Neumann has marketted it to home studio users, which kind of misses the Merging Anubis' main point, the network connectivity.

[@petesmith6434]

@@natdenchfield8061 The Apollo interfaces are not capable of hosting plugins without a computer…after all, their are designed to be used as audio interfaces used as part of an audio recording system. I agree that remote network access would be of no benefit that I can identify for use in a recording studio.

[@biteo648]

X4 sounds brighter and better, MT48 sounds kinda dull and lifeless

[@MichaelW1980randoms]

Great Video! Just a little nitpick of mine: Sennheiser bought Merging, not Neumann. Neumann is a property of Sennheiser since 1991. I found this interesting to know, as it shows the release of Studio Monitors in 2011 and Headphones in 2019 in perspective. So essentially, those are Sennheiser products, but with a Neumann style to them. But of course, the Merging products are initially their expertise and now sort of frankensteined by Sennheiser into a music production. That doesn’t make any difference here when it comes to the quality of the product, but it gives again some context, as Sennheiser bought them just 2 years ago.

[@EdThorne]

You are correct.

[@keddypeeps_504]

You break it down to a science you have experience in this field forsure👌🏿

[@fernandoguerra6841]

Nice video dude! Now try Apogee a forget UAD, way better in all senses! haha I must admit, If a I need a lot of quality I/O with a lot of channels, I think nothing beats UAD Apollo system.

[@EdThorne]

Thanks, Fernando. The fact that Bob Clearmountain swears by Apogee has made me consider it 🤣

[@aaronwhitmanmusic]

Hey Ed, I have an audient id14 and was wondering if there's anything at around $1000 or less that you feel would be a noticeable upgrade in converters/pres?

[@samueloluyinkaojomu6548]

Nothing. If you want more input get the Audient ID44 mkii.

[@HarvinderSingh-yy8th]

Thorne you must have included ID 14 MKII, SCARLETT 2I2 AUDIO INTERFACES too.

[@EdThorne]

@@HarvinderSingh-yy8th Lol🤘

[@Igor_Shvets77]

🙏Please RME vs Neumann MT48 comparison🙏

[@EdThorne]

I don’t have the MT48 anymore… I do need to get hold of an RME though.

[@andreasmichel9430]

Very informative, like all your videos.

[@mattpalmbeach]

Neumann sounded more open to me

[@peterpicker850]

Coming from a longtime Apollo user here who has owned just about every UAD plugin. The Neumann is way more open and transparent. I don’t know how you came to this conclusion. Apollo converters have a known “upper mid range” focus, which I think the reviewer is conflating for “openness.” I also agree with other comments that Apollos tend to smear and sound pinched.

[@pavelfriesen2202]

Hi ! Somebady . What do you think if you compare the neumann mt 48 with the apogee symphony mk 2, which will be better in quality?

[@pradeepplaypiano]

I think if you are comparing Apogee Symphony to Neumann MT48 .Neumann MT48 is much more superior in terms of sound and specs. But they are directly competing with the Apollos and they are marketed as the Apollo killer, which they fail to deliver. I had owned both MT48 and Apollo. I derived with the same conclusion as Edthorne. Apollo sounded much more better than MT48 even with the Neumann u87 microphones.

[@pavelfriesen2202]

@@pradeepplaypiano Thank you for answer .

[@nexusobserve]

god that neumann is a beast

[@JuanitoCardona]

GREAT VIDEOOOOO !!!!!!! THANKS !!!!

[@EdThorne]

Hope it was helpful🔥

[@Herr]

Autotune on mt48?

[@EdThorne]

Nope.

[@tomgadd]

imo The Neumann sounds in every aspect far more better. The preamp sound much more natural und gives without plugins a nice dimension to it. Conversion from the UA can't touch the mt48 quality. don't fool yourself with UA. Their Hardware were over years big dongles for their plugins. They have decent sound quality, but never touched the best available. Merging conversion seems to be the very best natural conversion around.

[@Screaming-Trees]

I think you and I have the same speakers. Are those PSI A25m in the background? This Neumann thing is the first DAC I've heard that might be able to deliver the sound quality and musicality of our studio Mytek 8x192 on the go. I'd have to hear it in person but it seems like it could do it. Between these two I don't know. One sounds like that 10k tier DAC (Crane Song, Mytek, Burl etc) while the other....sounds like, well an audio interface I guess. Who cares about the headphone amps? Just byo mate. There are better headphone amps if you need the best. Still though, and as I say I'd have to listen in person, but I suspect the aforementioned are still a little more in every sense than what these two can deliver. Cool comparison though. Thank you.

[@zanza_the_rewolverine]

I have the Apollo Twin and honestly I don't think it's worth the change, between 1000 and 3000 euros I don't think there is a noticeable difference between ad/da and in feauteres so the Apollo wins by a large margin. Honestly, I'm just thinking about an upgrade to the Lynx Hilo 2 (Thunderbolt3) with + an external preamp.

[@Pianology123]

Hi, do you know how to setup loopback in MT48 for OBS? I can't get it, even though they say MT48 has loopback function

[@EdThorne]

Probably using the virtual channels which are probably found in the desktop app.

[@batDOG.RECORDS]

The SSL 2 blows em both outta the water and it’s like $150 lol

[@dronbana]

Could someone please tell me if AES 67 outputs on MT48 can connect to Genelec AES/EBU enabled speakers (8351B) Thanks.

[@twitcheyspleen]

Nice review

[@LesterWayneDobos]

I use my MT48 with a Netgear M4250 connected ethernet audio via Merging Technology Aneman app. Paired to two KH120 II AES67 monitors configured with the MA1 Alignment software. The learning curve is steep but you can even further fine tune the MA1 software to get the most accurate sound in your room as possible.

[@EdThorne]

The MA1 system is awesome. See my latest video on room correction 👌

[@nashse7en]

Hi Ed, can i use 44.1khz intrumentals inside a 48khz vocal recording session and finish the mix without resampling the intrumental?

[@alexbreyer6921]

I own two Apollos and enjoy working with them for the most part. Here I thought the audio examples were better on the MT-48. Honestly most of your comments sound counter to others' comments. Nothing wrong with working with Apollos, but this new interface seems to have a leg up in several areas. Personally I think UAD's use of Thunderbolt to daisy chain units rivals most options, but once the networking options become easier to connect that might change. Honestly not sure why Merging didn't utilize AVB, as it's supposed to be an industry standard between video and audio industries.

[@EdThorne]

A lot of comments agree with my findings. You’ll find confirmation bias either way of course, and we all hear things differently. If one sounds better to you and that informs your decision which one you want to buy - my job here is done🙂 I wouldn’t be surprised if UA ditch the Thunderbolt format and go Ravenna/Dante/ANEMAN on their next interfaces.

[@drewnorth3816]

Both interfaces will give you the sound you need for any professional use case. I personally prefer the sound of the X4, and greatly prefer the flexibility of the unison mic preamps. The user experience of the UA ecosystem brings it all home. I've been on an Apollo interface for 10+ years, and can't see myself ever moving onto something else.

[@harpoleon6806]

Uad trashed it's own eco system

[@newman2374]

VERY IMPORTANT SIDE PREAMP AND COVERTOR FROM MY SIDE I RECEMEDING NEVE 88M

[@tashawnjones819]

Start adding them plug-in that come with uad then watch the difference

[@matteofloris9502]

waiting for your audient oria vs universal audio comparison ;)

[@EdThorne]

Alas, that won’t be happening. I’m not moving into Atmos anytime soon.

[@matteofloris9502]

@@EdThorne not worth for integrated sonarworks dsp etc.? I guess it's a stupid question but I want to abandon my 828es soon as possible and it seemed a good possibility.... any tip? :P

[@kobbyampofo]

@@matteofloris9502 if you have that money to spend and a measurement mic rme just added eq correction on the outputs of all their interfaces directly thru their total mix software . so u can handle the room correction there without the so without having to buy an atmos focused interface. RME has great drivers and great conversion as well. Or you could add a monitor controller with built in dsp to ur current setup with ur motu. Just some suggestions!

[@EdThorne]

It’s an expensive way to buy Sonarworks. It’s designed for Atmos and only has two inputs. The conversion isn’t anything super high end so probably not worthy of a comparison unless it’s Atmos specific.

[@EdThorne]

That’s a great feature from RME!

[@williamfletcher5760]

No good to a band who what's to record from the floor live. Not enough inputs. We struggles with 2 Apogee Ensembles slaved together.

[@EdThorne]

It’s not been designed for that, clearly… Check out the Audient Evo 16 and SP8s. They’re great for bands!

[@JeffyG]

I couldn’t leave my Apollo x4 - it still holds up. I’m committed to those unison pre-amps and UAD plugins using Console. Hate the on-screen plugins of the MT48. Couldn’t get by without the x4 3 output pairs or 2 independent head-phone outputs. The Apollo x4 usability is still superior.

[@billweaver2549]

Preferred Neumann on vocals & acoustic guitar. Added "silkiness"and realism - like he was there in front of me (although I'd want to eq out some of the bottom end of the guitar. Apollo guitar sounded brittle & harsh to my ears but I much preferred the definition it gave to the bass

[@EdThorne]

Fair comments.

[@EirikHasselberg]

Thanks for doing the thing with the headphone amplifiers, you just destroyed Julian Krause! 😂

[@EdThorne]

Julian’s great. His scientific analysis really cuts through marketing fluff. Having said that, science and stats don’t tell you how things actually sound in a musical context and a practical use sense.

[@davidallanmusic]

@@EdThorne Could you please get Paul to understand that.

[@EdThorne]

Ah, he’s his own man. To be fair, Paul backs up his science with an understanding of how things sound. He’s got good ears for micro-distortions and clipping, it’s crazy.

[@mahdiyar5734]

Bro your really love apollo for Shure 😂

[@EdThorne]

No Shure’s in this video😉

[@mattmarinelli5241]

@@EdThorne😂