Head-to-head · Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Vocaster Two vs Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Focusrite Vocaster Two comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.5 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about serious podcasters needing all-in-one solution — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Audio Interfaces

Focusrite Vocaster Two

4.5

$89.99as of Jul 1

The Focusrite Vocaster Two is designed specifically for podcasters, offering dual XLR inputs, phone connectivity with mix-minus, and Bluetooth capabilities in a compact form factor. Reviewers noted its ease of setup and solid audio quality, though the $299 price point may be excessive for casual users. The device works well with macOS and iPad, but advanced features require the Vocaster Hub software. While it provides impressive versatility for podcast production, most users won't need all its features, making it better suited for serious podcasters who want a one-stop solution.

Strengths

— Includes two XLR inputs with phantom power support
— Built-in phone connection with mix-minus for echo reduction
— Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio input

Watch-outs

— Expensive compared to basic audio interfaces at $299
— Requires dedicated software (Vocaster Hub) for advanced features

$89.99 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #6 in Best Audio Interfaces

Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

4.1

$1,099as of Jul 1

The Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 represents a significant refresh to the Apollo line, maintaining Thunderbolt connectivity and enhancing audio performance with improved dynamic range and lower THD. Reviewers praised its industry-leading Unison preamps, pristine conversion quality, and real-time UAD processing capabilities. The integration of Sonarworks SoundID correction adds value for monitoring accuracy. However, the premium pricing and lack of included Thunderbolt cable were noted as drawbacks. This interface appeals to professional musicians and producers seeking studio-grade performance in a desktop-friendly form factor.

Strengths

— Industry-leading Unison preamps with analog emulation
— Pristine AD/DA conversion with wide dynamic range
— Real-time UAD plugin processing for zero-latency tracking

Watch-outs

— Premium price point
— No Thunderbolt cable included in the box

$1,099 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

Focusrite Vocaster Two

The Focusrite Vocaster Two is unique in its phone connectivity with mix-minus and Bluetooth capabilities, features absent in the Universal Audio Volt Series and the Audient iD4 MkII. However, it's more expensive than the Behringer UMC22 and lacks the technical performance and build quality of the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen, making it less suitable for users needing raw audio quality or budget-conscious buyers.

Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2

The Universal Audio Apollo X Gen 2 excels in industry-leading Unison preamps and real-time UAD processing, features not available in the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen or Audient iD4 MkII. While it's more expensive than the Behringer UMC22, it provides pristine AD/DA conversion and professional-grade performance that the budget option cannot match, and unlike the Focusrite Vocaster Two, it's built for professional studios rather than podcasting.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	Focusrite Vocaster Two	Universal Audio Apollo X GEN 2
Inputs	2 XLR	4x XLR-1/4" Combo
Outputs	Stereo 3.5mm jack, Camera output	2x Balanced 1/4" TRS
Connectivity	USB-C, Bluetooth	Thunderbolt 3
Sample Rate	48kHz	24-bit / 192 kHz
Bit Depth	24-bit	24-bit
Preamps	JFET	4x Unison-enabled
Power	Bus-powered via USB-C	—
Headphone Jack	1/4" jack	—

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