Zen Quadro Synergy Core Review: More Than Just an Audio Interface
When I first unboxed the Antelope Audio Zen Quadro Synergy Core, my immediate thought was: this isn’t just another audio interface. It feels more like a complete studio hub with some hidden bonuses you don’t normally find in this category. After spending time recording, testing, and mixing with it, I wanted to share my experience and highlight the features that stood out. Antelope gear has a reputation for high-end build quality, and the Zen Quadro doesn’t disappoint. The metal chassis feels solid, and the layout is intuitive. The front panel gives you quick access to preamps, headphone outs, and essential controls, while the back is loaded with I/O options that cover everything from guitars to external preamps.
Core Features
Four High-Quality Preamps
The onboard preamps are clean and transparent, with plenty of gain for dynamic and ribbon mics. I pushed them on a few sources like acoustic guitar, tambourine with a ribbon mic, and vocals. They held up beautifully without introducing noise.
DSP-Powered Effects
One of the big selling points is the Synergy Core DSP platform. Instead of weighing down your computer, you can run Antelope’s plugin suite directly on the interface. I tried the built-in compressors and reverbs on vocals and guitars, and the real-time monitoring with effects was smooth and lag-free.
Flexible Routing and Mixer Software
The included software mixer takes a little time to get used to, but once you do, it’s incredibly powerful. I was able to set up zero-latency headphone mixes, route tracks creatively, and even run multiple effects chains without pushing my CPU.
Hidden Bonus: Second USB Interface
Here’s the curveball. The Zen Quadro actually includes a second audio interface via USB. That means you can connect another device, like a laptop, and route audio between the two. For me, this was huge for capturing reference mixes, streaming setups, and even bouncing ideas between my studio Mac and a mobile rig.
Real-World Use
I put the Zen Quadro through a few real sessions:
Acoustic instruments: The SM81 through the Zen Quadro was detailed and clear. Adding a touch of onboard EQ and compression made it sit in the mix almost instantly.
Electric Guitar: I ran my Fender Stratocaster direct-in to the Hi-Z input on the Zen Quadro and then added some amp procressing, compression and delay from the built-in DSP and honestly I was pleasantly surprised.
Vocals: Running light compression, preamp sim, and a Pultec-Style EQ on the way in saved me time later in mixing, and I loved being able to hear effects in real time without taxing my computer.
If you want to hear some of these examples, check out my video on YouTube
Pros and Cons
Pros
Excellent preamps with plenty of headroom
Onboard DSP plugins save CPU power
Second USB interface is genuinely useful
Solid build quality and intuitive front panel
Cons
Software mixer has a learning curve
Price point may be high for beginners
Final Thoughts
The Antelope Zen Quadro Synergy Core feels like more than just an interface. It’s a studio control center. If you’re serious about getting high-quality sound, flexible routing, and DSP power without overloading your computer, this is a strong contender in 2025.
For anyone curious, I put together a full video walkthrough so you can hear it in action:
👉 Watch the Zen Quadro review on YouTube
And if you’re thinking about picking one up, Antelope gave me a code for my readers to save 10%:
Use code: WOODYARD10 → Check out the Zen Quadro
