Antelope Audio Discrete 8 Oryx Synergy Core

The Antelope Audio Discrete 8 Oryx is a professional 26×38 audio interface that integrates pristine AD/DA conversion, advanced AFC clocking, discrete Class A preamps, real-time DSP and FPGA effects, and comprehensive studio routing in a single rack-unit for modern hybrid workflows.

Uncompromising conversion and clocking

The Discrete 8 Oryx delivers exceptional sonic accuracy through next-generation AD/DA converters offering up to 130 dB of dynamic range combined with fourth-generation 64-bit AFC clocking. This combination enhances stereo spread, depth and transient detail, as Antelope’s decades of clocking expertise ensure superior performance that exceeds the raw specifications of the converter chips. Engineers benefit from a more dimensional capture during recording and a more revealing monitoring environment during mixing.

Eight discrete Class A preamps

The interface includes eight discrete Class A microphone preamps, each built around a six-transistor architecture inspired by classic recording consoles. This topology produces outstanding clarity, low noise and an enhanced 75 dB of gain that supports both modern and vintage microphones. All inputs are DC-coupled and accept XLR, TS and TRS, while the first two channels switch to Hi-Z for direct instrument recording. The design maintains transparency at every gain stage and preserves transient integrity, making it suitable for multi-instrument and ensemble work.

Comprehensive connectivity for hybrid studios

The Discrete 8 Oryx integrates 26 inputs and 38 outputs, combining eight microphone preamps, eight DC-coupled line outputs, ADAT, S/PDIF, reamp outputs, monitor outputs and four dedicated headphone outputs. Engineers can route every analogue and digital path simultaneously using the redesigned virtual patch bay, enabling complex hybrid workflows that involve hardware processors, modular setups or external digital devices. The system adapts easily to expanding studio requirements and supports advanced multitrack routing without compromise.

Workflow-enhancing hardware features

Engineers sync all digital equipment with three Word Clock outputs driven by Antelope’s premium clocking, while the Word Clock input enables operation as an external slave. The built-in reamp outputs allow guitarists to send a clean DI signal back into amplifiers without using an external box. A flexible talkback system uses any of the eight mic inputs or the integrated front-panel microphone, routing communication directly to monitors or headphones. The footswitch input accepts single or dual switches for dim and talkback control, streamlining hands-free operation.

A powerful virtual patch bay

The upgraded software control panel offers rapid signal flow customisation, presenting an intuitive drag-and-drop environment that keeps analogue and digital routing efficient. Engineers manage all virtual mixers, low-latency monitoring paths and real-time effects from one unified window. The software improves operational speed during tracking, mixing and reamping, while supporting immediate recall of patching configurations for replayable sessions.

Four high-performance headphone outputs

Oryx provides four independent stereo headphone outputs powered by premium DACs for clean, high-headroom monitoring. Each output receives its own routing feed and dedicated low-latency mixer, allowing engineers to build fully separate cue mixes for vocalists and instrumentalists. Real-time Synergy Core effects elevate monitor chains with polished compression, EQ or reverb to enhance performer confidence and produce better takes.

Advanced headphone experience with X-Feed

The X-Feed system recreates loudspeaker crossfeed inside headphones, delivering a more natural stereo image that reduces fatigue and improves spatial judgement. Built-in headphone calibration profiles refine tonal accuracy across popular models, while the two-band EQ allows personal sound shaping. These tools integrate directly with the four headphone outputs to create a more realistic and reliable monitoring environment.

Real-time Synergy Core FX processing

Oryx uses two DSP chips and one FPGA to run real-time Synergy Core effects chains with zero perceptible latency, enabling fully processed vocal and instrument monitoring without burdening the host computer. Engineers run up to sixteen channel strips with compressors, EQs, amps and reverbs, and apply the processing to any analogue or digital input or output. The interface also supports Antelope’s mic modelling system when paired with Edge microphones, transforming the unit into a flexible recording powerhouse.

Why Choose the Discrete 8 Oryx

• Ensures consistently accurate monitoring and stereo imaging for confident mixing.

• Provides enough I/O and routing power to handle complex hybrid setups effortlessly.

• Allows musicians to deliver better performances with personalised, polished headphone mixes.

• Enhances creativity through real-time processing that feels immediate and natural.

• Adapts to growing studio environments without requiring additional hardware.

• Maintains a reliable, stable digital ecosystem with industry-leading clocking.

• Encourages efficient workflows through an intuitive software control panel and patch bay.

• 26×38 simultaneous I/O with eight discrete Class A preamps
• Next-generation AD/DA conversion with up to 130 dB dynamic range
• Fourth-generation 64-bit AFC clocking
• Eight DC-coupled inputs and eight DC-coupled line outputs
• Two front-panel Hi-Z instrument inputs
• ADAT, S/PDIF, reamp outputs, monitor outputs and four independent headphone outputs
• Three Word Clock outputs and one Word Clock input
• Built-in talkback microphone and talkback via any input
• Footswitch input for dim and talkback control
• Advanced virtual patch bay with drag-and-drop routing
• Four low-latency mixers for individual headphone mixes
• X-Feed headphone crossfeed system
• Headphone calibration profiles and two-band EQ
• Synergy Core platform with two DSPs and one FPGA
• Zero-latency real-time effects processing on up to sixteen channels
• Mic modelling support for Edge series microphones

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.