The Zen Quadro stretches the limits of modern audio interface technology by implementing top-shelf components into an affordable price and portable bus-powered form factor.
Taking the AD/DA chips from Antelope Audio’s flagship Galaxy range, along with console-grade Discrete preamps with 75dB gain, the Zen Quadro audio interface provides creators of all kinds with the same uncompromising sound quality enjoyed by the world’s premiere recording studios.
Synergy Core real-time effect processing and enhanced standalone functionality are only part of the additional features packed into it, while the revolutionary dual-USB design allows simultaneous playback and recording on two systems – making it a no-brainer for all budding producers, musicians, and streamers looking to power up their production setup.
Unparalleled AD/DA Conversion and Clocking
Zen Quadro Synergy Core Audio Interface packs the latest gen converters, with up to 130dB dynamic range at 24-bit/192 kHz, outperforming competitors at several times the cost. Paired with Antelope Audio’s proprietary 64-bit AFC™ clocking technology, the interface provides you with a new level of detail in your recordings and wider soundstage for an exceptional stereo image in audio playback – allowing you to make the best decisions for your mix.
Crystal Clear Preamps
The Zen Quadro’s four Discrete preamps are built with a 6-transistor topology inspired by the British and American analog console designs of the eighties and nineties, offering maximum noise reduction and precise sound capture. With extremely low noise and up to 75dB gain, the Zen Quadro can handle even the quietest dynamic and ribbon mics.
Synergy Core: The Magic of Real-time DSP and FPGA Processing
Antelope Audio engineers combined DSP with FPGA chips to model each and every individual component of analog hardware. This ensures sound and behavior that’s virtually indistinguishable from the real thing—with near-zero latency, and zero strain on your computer’s CPU.
Zen Quadro audio interface comes with 37 legendary compressors, EQs, guitar amps and cabs, modulation effects and more, that can be applied in real-time during recording, streaming or live performances. Up to 48 mono effect instances can be loaded on 6 input chains simultaneously, putting the power of a complex multi-rack setup on your desktop.
At any time, you can expand your collection with more real-time effects such as Antares’ Auto-Tune Synergy and Grove Hill's Liverpool, available as additional purchases.
Revolutionary Dual-USB design
The Zen Quadro’s dual USB-C ports unlock a new world of possibilities for creators of all kinds. It’s like having two interfaces in one – freely route signals and create mixes between the two USB connections, using Mac, PC, iOS (USB-C) or Android devices together. The convenient loopback makes it great for streaming, and the secondary port can charge your mobile device while the primary port provides power for the Zen Quadro.
Enhanced Standalone Functionality for Live and Touring
Take the studio on the road with bus-powered USB-C connectivity alongside a durable metal enclosure.
With complete standalone operation, you can easily access routing and mixer controls through the color display, and recall settings and real-time FX chains, making it ideal for live performances. The secondary USB-C port even allows collaboration between duo live acts that are using two computers on stage!
Flexible Connectivity for Your Entire Studio
Four mic/line inputs, two instrument inputs, ADAT input and S/PDIF I/O are at your disposal to record a total of up to 14 inputs simultaneously. On top of the monitor outs, you also get an additional pair of line outs to connect a second pair of speakers or use them for outboard processing. The second headphone out has an independent mixer, so 2 people can listen to different cue mixes at the same time. The DC-coupled I/O can also send and receive control voltage (CV) signals and allow the Zen Quadro to be part of a modular synth setup.
ZEN QUADRO AUDIO INTERFACE FEATURES
Conversion & Clocking
Connectivity
Workflow-enhancing features
Real-time effects processing
In-the-Box Content
Included Real-Time Effects
Full list of effects
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS - ZEN QUADRO AUDIO INTERFACE
ANALOG
Analog Inputs
2 x Mic / Line Inputs (DC-Coupled)
2 x Mic / Line / Hi-Z Inputs (DC-Coupled)
Analog Outputs
2 x Monitor Out on TRS jacks, +20 dBu max (DC-Coupled)
2 x Line Out on TRS jacks, +20 dBu max (DC-Coupled)
2 x Stereo Headphone Outputs
Mic Preamp
EIN: -128 dBu (A-weighted)
Max input: +20 dBu
Max Gain: 75 dB
A/D Converter
Dynamic Range: 122 dB
THD + N: -116 dB
D/A Monitor Converter
Dynamic Range: 130 dB
THD + N: -115 dB
D/A Converter (Line Out)
Dynamic Range: 130 dB
THD + N: -115 dB
DIGITAL
Digital Inputs
1 x ADAT input (up to 8ch @ 44.1/48 kHz)
1 x S/PDIF (2ch.)
Digital Outputs
1 x S/PDIF (2ch.)
USB 1
USB 2
*Compatibility depends on the mobile device’s power delivery and specifications.
Clocking System
4th Generation Acoustically Focused Clocking
64-bit DDS
Sample Rates (kHz)
32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4, 192
Other Specs of the Zen Quadro Synergy Core Audio Interface
Operating Temperature
0-50°C, 32-122°F
Weight (Approx)
0.9 kg/ 1.98 lbs
Dimensions - Device
Width: 210 mm / 8.2”
Height: 58 mm / 2.3”
Depth: 136 mm /5.3”
Dimensions – Box
Width: 287 mm / 11.3”
Height: 92 mm / 3.6”
Depth: 187 mm /7.4”