[panamajack]

I have passed on the Apollo for the time being. After reading how much hardware will likely be required to run a couple dozen plug-ins, it looks to me like a rich man's toy. I did audition the plugs, and almost took the plunge, but aborted.

The first TB interface I bought was an Apogee Element 46. Liked the features, the mic-pres, the price ($599 to $1,499, less on the street), and the fact it has native control from within Logic 10.3.2. And, at least in Logic, the Control app permits direct monitoring to eliminate latency caused by routing through the DAW. Being a gadget guy, I bought the external controller, but there is also an iOS app for iPad or iPhone wireless control.

But I also bought a Focusrite 8 PreX before the dust settled because it has the MIDI port. I will likely be syncing machines together and like the idea of the on-board MIDI. It also has direct monitoring to reduce latency.

The jury is still out on the Apollo money pit. As far as I know, you can only run their pricy plug-ins in it.