In case you've not heard, Universal Audio announced their new Apollo 16 interface: a 16 I/O A/D converter and UAD Quad built in. This one is intended for the project studio that already has an arsenal of preamps, mixing console or combination thereof. These can be paired via MADI for a total of 32 inputs and two UAD Quad processors. All this for $2999. A mere $500 more than the Apollo Quad.

The unfortunate thing is that 64 bit drivers are yet to come for Mac users. They'll be here soon enough though, from what can be read on their web site.

Here's a link to the new drivers: Downloads

UNIVERSAL AUDIO SHIPS THUNDERBOLT OPTION CARD FOR APOLLO AUDIO INTERFACE

—Thunderbolt™ Option Card Provides Unrivaled Bandwidth and Next-Generation Connectivity for Recording Professionals—

I have about $2,000 to spend on my interface / preamp, just unsure on what would be more beneficial...

Looking to put together a decent little home studio...

I have about $2,000 to spend on my interface / preamp, just unsure on what would be more beneficial... a UA LA610 Preamp / Compressor combo with a lower end interface (Firestudio Tube) or the new UA Apollo interface (which seems to have pretty good preamps anyways)?

Check out this very in depth break down of the UA Apollo. http://acapella.har…"]New!

This has me kind of excited. Thunderbolt is here and this interface has me wanting to spend more money.