Since Bill Putnam revolutionized modern recording by founding Universal Audio in 1958, UA has not only gone on to create some of the most iconic outboard gear and interfaces—like the 610 preamp 1176 limiter, LA-2A leveling amplifier reissue and Apollo interface series—but also plug-ins that have set the gold standard for professional audio processing. Whether you’re mixing tracks in your bedroom studio or crafting polished productions in a world-class commercial space, Universal Audio plug-ins offer some of the very best emulations of classic gear available, like the legendary SSL stereo bus compressor and Ampex ATR-102 mastering tape recorder. And that stellar quality is evident whether you’re running Apollo/UAD-2 plug-ins, which use DSP from UA Apollo, UAD-2 Satellite or UAD-2 PCIe cards; or native UAD plug-ins, which can be run without UA’s proprietary DSP hardware.
Pictured: Various Universal Audio Plug-ins
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular UA—or UAD (Universal Audio Digital)—plug-ins, highlighting their key features, use cases and what makes them indispensable for modern music production. Let’s begin with Universal Audio’s bundled plug-in offerings before we make our way to our top picks for UA plug-in bundles, individual plug-ins and some frequently asked questions about UAD plug-ins.
Table of Contents
Comparing Universal Audio Plug-in Bundles
The Best Universal Audio Plug-in Bundles
Comparing Individual Universal Audio Plug-ins
The Best Individual Universal Audio Plug-ins
People Also Ask …
Add Some Universal Audio Plug-ins to the Mix
Comparing Universal Audio Plug-in Bundles
|
Plug-in |
Types of Plug-ins |
Plug-in Examples |
Number of Plug-ins |
Popular Use Cases |
|
Channel strip, compression, EQ, synth, saturation, plate reverb, tape delay, tape emulation |
Pultec EQs, Galaxy Tape Echo, Teletronix LA-2A, Oxide Tape Recorder, Pure Plate Reverb |
12 |
Mixing, mastering, vocal processing |
|
|
Channel strip, vocal suite, compression, EQ, instrument, saturation, reverb, delay, chorus, preamp, amp, speaker and tape emulation |
Topline Vocal Suite, Lion ’68 Super Lead, SSL 4000 G Bus Compressor, SSL 4000 E Channel Strip, Manley Vari Mu, Sound City Studios |
63 |
Vocal production, mixing, sound design |
|
|
Vocals and pitch correction, channel strips and preamps, compressors and limiters, special processing, instruments, delay, modulation, reverb, EQ, mastering, amp emulation |
Every available UAD plug-in, plus LUNA extensions |
127 |
Tracking, mixing, mastering |
|
|
Guitar amp, preamp, compression, delay and rotary speaker |
Ruby ’63, Dream ’65, Helios Type 69 |
7 |
Reamping, recording guitar |
|
|
Compression |
1176 Rev A, Rev E, AE versions |
3 |
Instrument leveling, drum tracking |
|
|
Compression |
LA-2A Silver, Gray, LA-2 |
3 |
Vocals, bass, stringed instruments |
The Best Universal Audio Plug-in Bundles
Pictured: Universal Audio Plug-ins in DAW Effects Sends
Universal Audio UAD Essentials Edition
Why It’s Cool: This bundle combines legendary analog emulations, such as the Pultec EQ and Teletronix/Universal Audio LA-2A with modern mixing tools, making it ideal for producers of all levels.
Key Features:
- 12 UAD outboard gear, tape and instrument plug-ins
- Versatile EQ and compression tools
- Affordable entry point into UAD plug-ins
Shop Now: Universal Audio UAD Essentials Edition Plug-in Bundle
An excellent starting point, UAD Essentials Edition bundle offers a well-rounded selection of plug-ins that cover the fundamental needs of mixing and mastering. Whether you’re dialing in vocal impact with the LA-2A or enhancing instrument tracks with Pultec EQs, this bundle provides tools for polished productions in a user-friendly and easily digestible package. And speaking of packages, it often comes standard with Universal Audio interfaces.
Universal Audio UAD Signature Edition Version 3
Why It’s Cool: This collection gives you premium reverb, compression and other plug-ins, such as Capitol Chambers, an emulation of the famous echo chambers at Capitol Studios in Los Angeles.
Key Features:
- 63 plug-ins, including many emulations of legendary gear
- Channel strips from SSL, API, Avalon and more
- Vintage reverb emulation
Shop Now: Universal Audio UAD Signature Edition Version 3 Plug-in Collection
The UAD Signature Edition Version 3 bundle is perfect for producers who want a diverse suite that runs the gamut of most outboard gear categories. Galaxy Tape Echo models the colorful expression of the Roland RE-201 Space Echo, while Manley Massive Passive EQ ensures precise control over dynamics. This V3 edition also features some familiar favorites found elsewhere in this guide, such as the 1176 Classic Limiter Collection and Ocean Way Studios Deluxe.
Universal Audio UAD Ultimate 14
Why It’s Cool: This across-the-board collection covers every aspect of production, mixing and mastering.
Key Features:
- The most complete UAD collection available in a bundle
- 90 UAD titles and 127 individual plug-ins
- Best dollar-for-plug-in value of all bundles in this guide
Shop Now: Universal Audio UAD Ultimate 14 Plug-in Bundle
The UAD Ultimate 14 bundle is the crown jewel of Universal Audio’s offerings, featuring everything from vintage EQs, compressors, channel strips, guitar amps and instruments to cutting-edge reverbs, delays and mastering tools. With 127 plug-ins and LUNA extensions, it’s perfect for producers and engineers who need a full arsenal of tools at their fingertips. This latest edition includes LA-1A tube and 1176 Classic FET compressors, Showtime ’64 and Woodrow ’55 amps and more.
Universal Audio Guitar Bundle
Why It’s Cool: This lands you a recording guitarist’s goldmine of amps, cabs, mics, classic outboard signal processing and more.
Key Features:
- UAD Dream ’65 and Ruby ’63 amps
- Helios Type 69, LA-3A and 1176 outboard gear emulations
- Galaxy Tape Echo and Waterfall Rotary Speaker effects
Shop Now: Universal Audio UAD Guitar Bundle
If you’re looking to cut right through the noise and get awesome guitar tone on a budget, check out the UA Guitar Bundle. You get instant tonal inspiration with simulations of tried-and-true gear in an easily digestible collection of plug-ins. So, if you’re susceptible to paralysis by analysis, this one’s got you covered—slathered—in gorgeous tone, without the headache.
Universal Audio 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
Why It’s Cool: Multiple versions of the iconic FET-based 1176 limiter offer everything from vintage warmth to modern precision.
Key Features:
- Three distinct versions of the 1176 limiter
- “All-Button” and “No Ratio” modes
- Additional features such as Headroom, Mix and custom Sidechain Filter
Shop Now: Universal Audio 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
The Universal Audio 1176 FET compressor/limiter is synonymous with limiting, spawning countless imitators over the decades. So it’s only fitting that the 1176 Classic Limiter Collection has become a staple in professional studios for its unparalleled dynamic control, offering that coveted energizing quality, streamlined controls, and ultrafast attack and release times. From the aggressive Rev A to the polished AE version, this collection ensures your tracks are dynamic, punchy and ready for the mix.
And if you want to dig deep, check out our Riffs article on the History of the UA 1176.
Universal Audio Teletronix LA-2A Leveler Collection
Why It’s Cool: You can have iconic tube-driven compressors known for their silky smooth dynamic control at your beck and call.
Key Features:
- Includes three distinct versions: LA-2, LA-2A Silver and LA-2A Gray
- Real-time recording and mixing with Apollo interfaces
- Presets from Ross Hogarth, Vance Powell and Darrell Thorpe
Shop Now: Universal Audio Teletronix LA-2A Leveler Collection
Since its analog debut in 1965, the Teletronix LA-2A Leveler has remained an undisputed gold standard in compression and the archetypal expression of the uniquely smooth sonics of the optical compressor. Each version in this UAD plug-in collection offers a painstakingly accurate unique sonic signature, from the smooth leveling of the Silver to the vintage warmth of the Gray. Perfect for adding warmth and dimension to vocals, basslines and strings, this collection is a must-have.
Comparing Individual Universal Audio Plug-ins
|
Plug-in |
Type of Plug-in |
Sound-Shaping Tools |
Popular Use Cases |
|
Stereo compression |
Classic SSL glue-style compression |
Drum buses, group tracks, mastering |
|
|
Reverb |
Natural, vintage chamber reverbs |
Vocals, instruments, orchestral arrangements |
|
|
Reverb |
Vintage reverb tones from Sound City Studios |
Vocals, instruments, atmospheric mixes |
|
|
Reverb |
Motown-inspired chamber reverbs |
Vintage-style mixes, R&B, soul |
|
|
Reverb, re-miking, channel strip |
Iconic room, mic and outboard gear emulation |
Adding dimension and polish to instrument and vocal recordings |
|
|
Channel strip, vocal FX, pitch correction |
UA channel strip, plus vocal-friendly effects |
Vocals |
|
|
Compression |
Clean, vintage warmth, aggressive tones |
Drums, vocals, synths |
|
|
Channel strip |
EQ, compression, preamp warmth |
Vocals, acoustic instruments |
|
|
Guitar amps, effects and mics |
All-inclusive guitar suite within a single plug-in |
Reamping, recording and mixing guitar |
The Best Individual Universal Audio Plug-ins
Pictured: Universal Audio 1176 Classic Limiter Collection
Universal Audio SSL 4000 Series G Bus Compressor
Why It’s Cool: It emulates the classic Solid State Logic console compressor, perfect for adding cohesion and that “radio-ready” sound to your mixes.
Key Features:
- Group or stereo bus “glue” effect
- Sidechain Filtering, Mix and Headroom controls
- Artist presets from Just Blaze, Peter Mokran, Ian Boxill I and more
Shop Now: Universal Audio SSL 4000 Series G Bus Compressor Plug-in
The SSL 4000 Series G Bus Compressor brings the legendary sound of SSL consoles to your DAW. Renowned for its ability to glue mixes together, this compression plug-in is a favorite for drums, bass and master tracks. With its intuitive design and professional-grade sound, it’s a staple for producers and engineers of all stripes and genres.
Universal Audio Capitol Chambers
Why It’s Cool: This plug-in recreates the legendary Capitol Studios underground reverb chambers, offering lush, vintage-inspired reverbs.
Key Features:
- UA’s Dynamic Room Modeling
- Includes preamp, amp, mic and speaker emulations of gear from Capitol Studios’ signal chain
- Presets from engineers of Ray Charles, Steely Dan, Madonna and more
Shop Now: Universal Audio Capitol Chambers Plug-in
Capitol Chambers delivers one of the most iconic reverbs in music history, now available for your DAW. Modeled from the eight massive chambers designed by Les Paul for Capitol Records’ iconic Hollywood headquarters in 1955, its lavish yet natural character is perfect for vocalists, instrumentalists and producers looking to add dimension to their tracks. There’s no better way to get the sound that drew artists from Frank Sinatra to The Beastie Boys to Capitol Studios. Whether you’re working on ballads, pop or orchestral arrangements, Capitol Chambers lusciously enhances every track you send it to.
Universal Audio Sound City Studios
Why It’s Cool: It offers vintage reverb tones and signal chain emulations—including mics, EQ, compression and other analog processors—from the iconic Sound City Studios in Van Nuys, California.
Key Features:
- Studio A live room’s acoustics
- Sound City Studio’s famed ’70s console tone
- Emulation of Sound City’s reverb chamber
Shop Now: Universal Audio Sound City Studios Plug-in
From Neil Young’s 1970 After the Gold Rush to Jack Johnson’s 2022 Meet the Moonlight, L.A.'s Sound City recording studio has been the choice of many platinum-selling artists and producers for its vibe and sound. Sound City Studios brings the unique reverb tones and signal chain elements of this historic recording space, well documented in the Dave Grohl-produced documentary, Sound City, to your DAW. From its natural warmth to its expansive echoes, this plug-in is ideal for adding character and depth to any mix. Ideal for creating atmospheric soundscapes, it’s a great choice for producers seeking authentic-sounding studio reverb and a refined polish.
Universal Audio Hitsville Reverb Chambers
Why It’s Cool: This plug-in recreates the reverb chambers—along with vintage mic modeling and positioning—from the storied Hitsville U.S.A., and the sound that defined Motown.
Key Features:
- Two custom-built attic reverb chambers
- Dynamic Room Modeling
- Two speaker options
Shop Now: Universal Audio Hitsville Reverb Chambers Plug-in
Hitsville Reverb Chambers captures the unmistakable sound of Motown’s golden era. Its smooth, rich reverb adds depth and character to vocals, guitars and more. Whether you’re working on classic soul or modern R&B, this plug-in brings a timeless vibe to your mixes.
Universal Audio Ocean Way Studios Deluxe
Why It’s Cool: Book a virtual session at the Bill Putnam Sr.-designed Hollywood establishment, and you’ve got total access to Studios A and B, along with speaker, mic and outboard gear emulation.
Key Features:
- Choose between re-mic and reverb modes
- Three speaker options: studio PA and two cabs
- Position drums by the wall or corner of either live room
Shop Now: Universal Audio Ocean Way Studios Deluxe Reverb Plug-in
Originally part of Putnam’s United Western Recorders at 6000 Sunset Boulevard, the studios at Ocean Way have long provoked the proverbial “if these walls could talk …” Wonder no more. The UA Ocean Way Studios Deluxe plug-in gives you the ambient magic of Ocean Way’s rooms via UA’s Dynamic Room Modeling technology, plus an array of gear simulations with detailed parameters that produce uncanny results.
Universal Audio Topline Vocal Suite
Why It’s Cool: Tailored for vocalists and producers, this collection includes all the essentials, from classic analog tools to state-of-the-art pitch correction.
Key Features:
- Compression, EQ and a slew of effects
- Independent pitch and formant shifting
- Vintage-inspired UA channel strip
Shop Now: Universal Audio Topline Vocal Suite
The Topline Vocal Suite is the ultimate toolkit for crafting polished, professional vocals. Featuring a UA channel strip, vocal correction, and effects like reverb, modulation and tape delay, this do-it-all plug-in delivers unparalleled vocal production capabilities. Whether you’re recording demos or creating radio-ready tracks, Topline Vocal Suite would be a clever choice for a “desert island” vocal plug-in.
Universal Audio Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor
Why It’s Cool: This emulation faithfully recreates the warm and aggressive tones of the iconic EL8 hardware compressor.
Key Features:
- The only authentic emulation of the EL8
- Dry/Wet parallel processing and Headroom controll
- Famous, colorful “Dist 2” and “Dist 3” modes
Shop Now: Universal Audio Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor Compressor
The Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor plug-in brings one of the most versatile and beautifully disruptive compressors ever created to your DAW. Its uncanny ability to switch between warm tones and punchy, aggressive compression makes it a favorite among engineers. Perfect for drums, vocals and more, this plug-in is a powerhouse for dynamic control.
Universal Audio Avalon VT-737 Tube Channel Strip
Why It’s Cool: It combines tube warmth with flexible EQ and compression for pro studio-quality tracking and mixing.
Key Features:
- Compatible with Unison technology
- Combines EQ, compression and preamp in one unit
- Various artist presets from Michael Brauer, Hector Delgado and more
Shop Now: Universal Audio Avalon VT-737 Tube Channel Strip Plug-in
The Avalon VT-737 plug-in delivers the lush, tube-driven sound of the classic hardware that’s been a go-to choice for hip-hop and pop music for decades. Its flexible EQ and compression make it an enticingly versatile tool for vocals, acoustic instruments and whatever else you throw at it. Whether you’re tracking or mixing with it, this plug-in adds a touch of warmth and an air of professionalism to your mix.
Universal Audio Paradise Guitar Studio
Why It’s Cool: Get an all-encompassing swath of amps, cabs, mics and effects for all your guitar needs and beyond.
Key Features:
- 11 vintage amp models
- 26 studio and stompbox effects
- Mic placement, cone breakup and ribbon mic warmth
Shop Now: Universal Audio Paradise Guitar Studio
In what UA calls its “most complete end-to-end virtual guitar studio” they’ve ever built, Paradise Guitar Studio doesn’t miss a beat. With it, you’ve got an entire signal chain, from preamp to 1176 compression to time-based effects, tape emulation and everything in between. And the icing on the cake is you don’t have to fuss around with opening up multiple iterations of plug-ins within your DAW—it’s a truly self-contained, comprehensive suite for all your guitar processing needs.
People Also Ask ...
Pictured: Universal Audio Capitol Chambers Plug-in
What do you need to run UAD plug-ins?
A Mac or PC will suffice to run most UAD plug-ins. However, to run UAD Realtime and UAD-2 plug-ins, you’ll need a compatible audio interface or UAD hardware such as an Apollo or UAD Satellite. These devices provide the DSP (digital signal processing) power required to run the plug-ins. Many UAD plug-in offerings include both UAD Native and Apollo Realtime and UAD-2 versions.
Can you use Universal Audio plug-ins without hardware?
UA has begun offering UAD Native versions of some plug-ins that don’t need dedicated DSP hardware. Check product specifications for compatibility details.
What are the best UAD plug-ins?
The best UAD plug-in for you will depend on your needs, but classics like the Universal Audio 1176 Limiter Collection, Teletronix LA-2A and Capitol Chambers reverb are perennial favorites. For guitarists, the UAD Guitar Amp bundle offers top-tier amp simulations.
What is the best UA compressor plug-in?
The 1176 Limiter Collection and Teletronix LA-2A Leveler Collection are two of the most popular and versatile UA compressor plug-ins, long trusted by artists and engineers of all genres for vocals, drums and anything, really.
Add Some Universal Audio Plug-ins to the Mix
Continuing their legacy of greatness from the analog realm to the digital cutting edge, Universal Audio plug-ins have become industry-standard tools for musicians, producers and engineers. And we live in an incredible time when we’re able to take advantage of accessible tools that were once extremely rare and prohibitively expensive. Whether you’re tracking with classic emulations of UA preamps like the 610, nailing down some Motown vibe at Hitsville, or seeking SSL channel strips and bus compressors, there’s a UAD plug-in for every creative need.
Pictured: Universal Audio Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor Compressor
Have a look at our full collection of Universal Audio software and find out how these tools can elevate your production workflow. And, as always, our helpful Gear Advisers are on call via chat or phone for any questions you may have along your path to better mixes.