Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core 14×10 Desktop Audio Interface

The Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core represents a meticulously engineered audio interface, purposefully crafted to elevate the professional studio experience within any desktop configuration. Its compact form conceals cutting-edge AD/DA converter chips, Discrete ultra-linear microphone preamplifiers, and a 64-bit AFC clocking system rooted in the storied legacy of Antelope Audio’s master clocks. With its extensive array of I/O capabilities and an extensive suite of Synergy Core effects, the Zen Q opens up a realm of creative possibilities.

Cutting-edge Connectivity and Enhanced Audio Performance: This interface can be powered via USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 and boasts an advanced audio driver that optimises streaming, playback, and low-latency recording. It achieves unparalleled sound quality and stability through the deployment of highly efficient AD/DA converter chips and Antelope Audio’s proprietary 64-bit AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking) technology. The interface features two Discrete ultra-linear preamps designed with authentic console circuitry, delivering classic warmth and sonic depth. These preamps offer switchable mic, Line IN, and Hi-Z modes for versatility. Additionally, there are two extra analogue inputs with switchable Hi-Z/Line modes. The Zen Q also enables real-time, low-latency processing of 37 included analogue-modeled Synergy Core effects, complemented by an extensive selection of 50+ optional expansions. With flexible I/O connectivity, it accommodates an additional 8 inputs over ADAT and provides stereo I/O via S/PDIF.

Unparalleled Audio Excellence: The Zen Q Synergy Core seamlessly merges cutting-edge technology with the timeless craftsmanship of console-grade circuitry. Its audio quality draws from professional AD/DA conversion, Discrete ultra-linear preamps, and a 64-bit AFC clocking system. These core technologies mirror those utilised in high-end interfaces such as the Orion Studio and the Galaxy 64 Synergy Core, empowering home engineers and artists to elevate their productions without leaving their workstations.

Fueling Creativity with Synergy Core Effects: Zen Q arrives bundled with 37 analogue-modeled effects that faithfully replicate the vintage gear found in a well-equipped studio. The Synergy Core platform provides immersive control over iconic equalisers, dynamic processors, guitar amps, reverb, and more. Moreover, an expansive collection of over 50 optional expansions awaits users through Antelope Audio’s Software Store.

Diverse I/O for Future Growth: Zen Q includes 2 Combo XLR jacks with switchable modes to toggle between the Discrete console-grade preamps, line level, or Hi-Z. The front panel houses 2 switchable LINE/HI-Z inputs for added adaptability. For monitoring, it offers a stereo monitor output and a separate line output pair for connecting additional studio monitors or external outboard gear. While both outputs are supported by a mastering-grade D/A converter, the pair of independent headphone outputs benefit from a dedicated DAC. Should expansion be necessary, a straightforward desktop setup can be effortlessly transformed into a multi-channel configuration through digital SPDIF I/O or ADAT IN.

Streamlined Workflow for Efficiency: Take advantage of the benefits of a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 interface, complete with an optimised audio driver for low-latency playback, streaming, and recording. When combined with onboard software, it grants seamless control over crucial parameters, including signal routing, effects, sub-mixes, and monitoring levels. You can apply Synergy Core effects without overloading your system, making these elements indispensable for enhancing your workflow.

Your Ideal Desktop Companion: Zen Q’s versatility is a standout feature, making it an ideal centrepiece for any desktop setup, whether at home or in the studio. It enhances the workflow for producers in a compact form factor, and it’s equally well-suited for on-location recording, mobile musicians, or producers on the move. The Zen Q operates entirely on bus power, eliminating the need for an external power supply for your next major project.

Key Features:

Conversion and Clocking:

• Class-leading AD/DA conversion with up to 127 dB of headroom
• Support for recording, mixing, and playback at up to 24-bit/192 kHz
• Proprietary 64-bit AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking) technology and a Jitter Management algorithm that enhances sound width, separation, and detail.

Versatile Connectivity:

• Two Discrete ultra-linear preamps with 65 dB of gain for studio-quality recordings; these preamps operate as microphone/line/Hi-Z inputs and are housed in combo XLR jacks with 48V phantom power support.
• Two Hi-Z/line instrument inputs via TRS connectors
• Two DC-coupled line outputs via TRS connectors
• USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port capable of carrying up to 16 input and 16 output channels in popular DAWs, supported by custom macOS and Windows drivers.
• Digital expansion options via ADAT IN (with 8 available channels) and S/PDIF I/O (with 2 available channels)
• One stereo monitor output via TRS
• Two stereo headphone outputs with individual volume controls

Enhanced Workflow:

• Bus-powered interface, drawing power directly from the USB-C or Thunderbolt connection, eliminating the need for a separate power source.
• Real-time monitoring with Synergy Core effects, processed with imperceptible latency.
• Simplified I/O routing with pre-configured settings, enabling immediate recording and playback.
• Front panel with easily accessible controls for input and output levels, among other settings.
• Customizable presets for signal routing, level adjustments, mixer settings, and effects.
• Customizable monitoring mixes with adjustable volume, pan, and reverb.

Real-time Effects Processing:

• A comprehensive collection of 37 Synergy Core effects, meticulously modelled after classic and rare analogue outboard gear.
• Synergy Core proprietary onboard platform, powered by 2 DSP and 1 FPGA chips, enabling real-time effects processing with imperceptible latency.
• A modelling engine that allows seamless integration with the Edge line of microphones for real-time vintage microphone emulations.

Please Note: When opting for the Thunderbolt-powered version of the Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core, a Thunderbolt cable is not included.

Included Effects: The Antelope Audio Zen Q Synergy Core boasts an extensive array of effects to enhance your audio production capabilities. This comprehensive selection includes:

• Gyraf Gyratec IX – Tube Mic Preamp
• VCA160 – Compressor
• Stay-Levin – Compressor
• FET-A76 – FET Compressor
• VEQ-1A – Tube EQ
• VMEQ-5 – Tube EQ
• X903 – Compressor / Limiter
• PowerFFC – FeedForward Compressor
• Clear Q – Parametric EQ
• Power EX – Expander
• VEQ-HLF – Passive High/Low Filter
• Auraverb – Reverb
• BA-31 – Mic Preamp
• Power Gate – Gate
• Plexi 59 (UK) – Tube Guitar Amp
• Bass SuperTube VR – Tube Guitar Amp
• Darkface 65 (US) – Tube Guitar Amp
• Top30 (UK) Bright – Tube Guitar Amp
• Tweed Deluxe (US) – Tube Guitar Amp
• Overange 120 (UK) – Tube Guitar Amp
• BurnSphere (DE) Lead – Tube Guitar Amp
• Marcus II (US) Lead – Tube Guitar Amp
• Modern (US) CH3 – Tube Guitar Amp
• Rock 75 (UK) – Tube Guitar Amp
• Rock 22.10 (UK) – Tube Guitar Amp
• Darkface 65 2×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Top30 2×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Modern 4×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Green 2×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Vintage 4×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Green 4×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Caliper 50 1×10 – Guitar Cabinet
• Bluelux 1×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Clst 1×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• England 4×12 – Guitar Cabinet
• Bass Tube 1×15 – Guitar Cabinet
• A-Tuner – Guitar tuner

Product Specifications:

• Width: 7.8 inches
• Depth: 5.4 inches
• Height: 2.3 inches
• Unit Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Chassis: Desktop
• Number of Inputs: 14
• Input Connectors: Digital Coaxial, Optical, 1/4-inch TS, XLR Combo Jack TRS
• Number of Outputs: 10
• Output Connectors: Digital Coaxial, 1/4-inch TRS
• Computer Connection: USB-C or Thunderbolt
• Number of Preamps: 2
• Maximum Sampling Rate: 192 kHz
• Digital Format: ADAT, S/PDIF