Apogee’s DSP-powered Duet 3 USB audio interface is now shipping, and it promises to sound as good as it looks

Announced earlier this year, Apogee has confirmed that the Duet 3, the third-generation version of its portable USB audio interface, is now shipping.

Of course, the biggest concern with any audio interface is how it sounds, but we have to start by mentioning Duet 3’s supremely sleek, low-profile design, which immediately marks it out from the crowd.

There’s also onboard DSP that enables zero-latency recording with the ECS Channel Strip FX plugin - featuring custom presets from legendary engineer Bob Clearmountain - though you’ll have to pay extra for this.

Duet 3 offers 2-in/4-out operation, and features two preamps. A large backlit knob sits on the top of the device.

The interface is also compatible with the new Duet Dock, which is designed to help with cable management and to give a more ergonomic experience when using Duet 3 on a studio desk.

Apogee Duet Dock

(Image credit: Apogee)

Available now, Duet 3 costs $599/£599. It’s optimised for Logic Pro X, but is compatible with both Mac and PC.

The Symphony ECS Channel Strip costs $99, but can be had for half price if you buy and register a Duet 3, while the Duet Dock costs $149/£149.

Find out more on the Apogee website.

Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it. 

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