The original Apogee Ensemble set a new standard for sound quality, simplicity, and recording functionality. Now you can get the same stellar production experience with ultra-low latency and amazing CPU efficiency, with the Ensemble Thunderbolt! The all-new Ensemble Thunderbolt also features an updated converter design that sets the bar even higher this time around. The A/D conversion boasts greater dynamic range and a virtually non-existent noise floor. On the D/A side, a new ESS Sabre32 32-bit Hyperstream converter promises to provide jitter-free playback that’s more clear and defined than ever before.
Apogee came to visit Sweetwater for an in-depth training session on the Ensemble Thunderbolt, and we were particularly astounded by the work that went into its software drivers. Using a Direct Memory Access engine, the Ensemble Thunderbolt bypasses your Mac’s CPU and writes directly to your Mac’s memory. Even when you’re running 30 input channels and 34 output channels at the highest 24-bit/192kHz resolution, you’ll be able to manage larger tracking sessions with ease. It’s a perfect example of Apogee taking full advantage of the Thunderbolt protocol’s capabilities, instead of just slapping a Thunderbolt port on their existing Ensemble and calling it a day.
Adding Thunderbolt connectivity makes the Ensemble Thunderbolt a perfect match for modern Mac-based producers and engineers. You get the generous connectivity of the original Ensemble, plus upgraded converters, an even more functional and intuitive design, and enhanced performance from input to output. If you’re a Mac-based musician in the market for an audio interface, the Ensemble Thunderbolt should definitely be on your list of contenders. Call your Sweetwater Sales Engineer to learn more!
