Antelope Zen Q Synergy Core USB
- Compact desktop design
- AD/DA conversion: 24 bit / 192 kHz
- 2 x Discrete ultra-linear preamps with 65 dB gain and 48V phantom powering
- With 37 analog modeled Synergy Core effects
Antelope Zen Q Review
Antelope Audio has released a USB-C version of its Zen Q Synergy Core compact audio interface. Designed for home music creators and mobile recording setups, this 14 x 10 bus-powered USB-C interface features onboard real-time effects and expandable I/O, making it a versatile choice for a variety of recording situations.
This compact unit uses the same AD/DA converters, mic preamps, and 64-bit AFC (Acoustically Focused Clocking) system found in Antelope’s high-end models like the rack-mountable Orion Studio Synergy Core and the flagship Galaxy 64 Synergy Core. The monitor and line-out AD/DA conversion offers a dynamic range of up to 127dB (A-weighted), allowing for recording, mixing, and playback at up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution.
The Zen Q Synergy Core also includes access to Antelope’s Synergy Core effects, with 37 analog-modeled effects bundled right out of the box. These effects include equalizers, dynamic processors, guitar amps, reverb, and more. You can also expand your collection with over 50 additional effects available for purchase from Antelope Audio’s Software Store.
Antelope’s powerful routing software gives you real-time signal buses, making it feel like you’re patching into a fully equipped studio. Since the Zen Q is bus-powered, you’re not tied to a power outlet, making it perfect for remote recording or mixing projects outside the studio.
The hardware is highly flexible, featuring two combo-jack inputs with console-grade discrete ultra-linear preamps, 127dB of headroom for the converters, and two DC-coupled line outs. This makes it easy to integrate computer-based CV tools into your Eurorack setup. The Zen Q USB from Antelope Audio is an excellent choice for small spaces that demand professional sound, with plenty of room to expand, or for anyone needing a reliable portable interface.
Signature Antelope Sound
The Zen Q Synergy Core features Antelope Audio’s signature high-quality sound, AD/DA conversion, discrete ultra-linear preamps, and advanced 64-bit AFC clocking. Powered by the same core technologies found in high-end interfaces like the Orion Studio and Galaxy 64 Synergy Core, it allows audio engineers and artists to elevate their productions to a whole new level—all without ever leaving their desks.
Zen Q Production Pack
The Zen Q Synergy Core comes loaded with 37 premium, analog-modeled effects to help you create stunning, sonically rich productions. In addition to unique compressors, EQs, and preamps, the interface includes 22 guitar amps and cabs, a guitar tuner, and a signature reverb—all of which can be used in real time during monitoring and mixing sessions.
With Synergy Core effects processing, you can stack as many effects as you need in your chain while monitoring through the interface—without worrying about overloading. You can expand your effects collection at any time by purchasing more classic models, rare effects never before recreated in digital form, and third-party effects like Antares Auto-Tune Synergy.
Every function in the interface’s control panel is designed to enhance your workflow. Since DAW monitoring naturally introduces latency, you can monitor directly through the interface to keep delay to an absolute minimum.
With versatile routing options, you can easily create a near-zero latency mix and stack it with your favorite Synergy Core effects, all without stressing the onboard platform. Dedicated signal metering is available for every input and output level, both on the front-panel display and in the software control panel.
Quick And Efficient Workflow
Customers of the Zen Q Synergy Core benefit from a USB-C interface with an optimized audio driver, ensuring low-latency playback, streaming, and recording. Paired with the onboard software, users enjoy seamless control over essential parameters, including signal routing, sub-mixes, and monitoring.
The Zen Q Synergy Core bridges the gap in sound quality between artists with access to premium studios and home creators. Its pristine sound comes from a combination of professional-grade AD/DA converters and Antelope’s Discrete ultra-linear preamps, which share circuits with legendary American and British consoles.
The device’s standout sonic quality is made possible by the core pillar of Antelope Audio’s sound: the 64-bit AFC clocking technology, taken from the company’s high-end master clocks. Trusted in prestigious studios worldwide, this technology has even been used for scoring major Hollywood blockbusters.
- Class-leading AD/DA conversion with up to 127dB of headroom.
- Recording, mixing and playback at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
- 2 × Discrete ultra-linear preamps with 65dB of gain for studio-quality recordings.
- 2 × Hi-Z/line instrument inputs over TRS.
- 2 × DC-coupled line outputs over TRS.
- USB-C port carrying up to 16 input and 16 output channels in any popular DAW with custom macOS & Windows drivers.
- Digitally expandable over ADAT IN, with 8 channels available.
- Digitally expandable over S/PDIF I/O, with 2 channels available.
- 1 × Stereo DC-coupled monitor output over TRS.
- 2 × Stereo headphone outputs with separate volume control.
Why You Need the Antelope Zen Q
Antelope Audio interfaces offer a range of powerful features, including high-quality conversion and clocking, a suite of included real-time effects, and DSP mixing. The Zen Q Synergy Core continues this tradition.
The Zen Q is a tabletop unit that measures just under 8 inches wide and weighs less than 2 pounds. If you’re looking for a new audio interface that delivers excellent performance and boosts your workflow, this is the one for you!
Conclusion
Well, Antelope Audio has delivered once again. If you’re considering upgrading to a new audio interface, this could be the perfect choice for you. While it’s not exactly in the budget category, you definitely get what you pay for with this unit.
If you have any questions about this audio interface, feel free to let us know in the comments below, or reach out to Antelope directly for more detailed information.
