Universal Audio

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Universal Audio

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Universal Audio (also known as UA) are one of the leading manufacturers in the world of recording technology - and have been for decades.

Founded by Bill Putnam Sr. in 1958, Universal Audio earned a fierce reputation in the industry by producing some of the finest audio equipment and software. UA’s innovations include their jaw-droppingly authentic UAD plugins, hand-built analogue hardware, game-changing UAFX pedal series, powerful DSP accelerators and universally acclaimed audio interfaces. From the affordable, feature-packed Volt series to the premium, studio-grade Apollo range - there’s a Universal Audio audio interface that’s perfect for your budget and requirements.

As well as audio interfaces, Universal Audio also offer effects pedals and an advanced load box via their UAFX range, microphones and studio-outboard gear.

Need help deciding between a UAD Apollo Twin and a Twin X? Not sure which UAFX amp pedal is right for your pedalboard? Head down to our Brighton store, where our friendly and knowledgeable Pro Audio team answer any of your questions about Universal Audio. Alternatively, contact us online, over the phone or via email if you can’t make it down.

Looking to complete your home studio? We’ve got studio monitors, MIDI keyboards, microphones and microphone & speaker stands from the most popular brands in-stock and ready to ship with next-day delivery.

What are UAD plugins?

Universal Audio UAD plugins give you the sound of sought-after analogue gear with the convenience and recallability of software. UAD plugins require a lot of processing power to deliver their authentic sound, which is why they run off the DSP within Apollo interfaces instead of your computer’s native processor. UAD plugins include stunning models of classic compressors, EQs, tape machines, mic preamps and guitar amps. For many professional mixing engineers and producers, UAD plugins are second to none when it comes to sonic authenticity.

Is Universal Audio Apollo worth it?

There’s no doubt that Universal Audio Apollo UAD audio interfaces are worth every penny. After being used on countless hit records, these professional-grade interfaces continue to remain the first choice for many highly-regarded engineers and producers.

Standout features of UA Apollo interfaces include Unison Technology (emulates the input stage of classic tube and transformer-based preamps at a component level), a built-in talkback mic (run your sessions like a pro), the ability to run UAD-powered plug-ins (start tracking through vintage compressors, effects processors and more) and elite-class audio conversion.

All Universal Audio apollo interfaces come with the Realtime Analog Classic UAD plug-in bundle and free industry-leading technical support on the phone and online from knowledgeable audio engineers. Thunderbolt-equipped Apollo interfaces can also be used with Luna, Universal Audio’s free DAW.

Which Universal Audio interface should I buy?

Universal Audio offer two ranges of audio interfaces - the affordable and portable Volt series and the world-class Apollo interface series that’s become a staple of professional recording studios around the world. There are also multiple formats within each range, from compact desktop-friendly audio interfaces to multi-channel rackmount units.

Which Universal Audio interface is right for you will depend on your requirements and budget. Want an audio interface that runs UAD-powered plug-ins and fits snugly on your desk? The best-selling Universal Audio Apollo Twin will be a great fit for your studio. Are you a singer-songwriter that wants a simple, effective way to record your voice and instrument wherever you are? A Volt 1 or Volt 2 is perfect for you. Are you a professional producer or engineer that wants to record live bands and run elaborate mix sessions? An Apollo rackmount interface like the x8p or the x16 is what you need.

What is Universal Audio Luna?

Universal Audio’s Luna Recording System is a DAW (digital audio workstation) that’s exclusively for Thunderbolt-based UA Apollo interface users. With its intuitive analogue-style workflow, Accelerated Realtime Monitoring for sub-2ms recording latency and seamless integration with compatible Apollo audio interfaces, Luna is an exceptional DAW for music recording, composition, audio editing, sound design and more. The best part is, it’s free and offers tighter integration with UAD plug-ins than other major DAWs. Currently, Luna is only available for Mac.

A History of Universal Audio

Universal Audio’s legacy goes back to the late '50s and early '60s when they produced valve-based audio processors such as the iconic 610 preamplifier (which was used on recordings by Jimi Hendrix, Neil Young and the Beach Boys). In the late '60s, UA also began manufacturing outboard gear themselves, including the Teletronix LA-2A compressor and the UREI 1176 limiting amplifier. These units would go on grace countless landmark recordings over the years. UA continues to build top-notch analogue hardware to this day. By painstakingly recreating those iconic studio outboard units using exclusively old-school manufacturing and the same components as the originals, UA ensures that these reissued models deliver that unmistakable warmth, richness, and depth.

In 1999, the Universal Audio company as we know it was established by Bill’s sons, Bill Putnam Jr. and James Putnam. In addition to reissues of legendary analogue hardware, UA would begin to offer highly accurate software emulations of sought-after studio gear via their UAD Powered Plug-In platform. Thanks to this revolutionary platform, home and project studios could access a world-class selection of classic equipment from companies such as Neve, API, Manley, Studer, Lexicon and Universal Audio themselves - all within their computer. The stunning realism of the UAD-2 plug-ins has led to them becoming staples of professional recording studios worldwide.

Who uses Universal Audio interfaces and software?

You’re in excellent company as a Universal Audio user, with top-flight artists, engineers and producers such as Tycho, Vic Wainstein (Tyler the Creator), Jacquire King (Kings of Leon, Tom Waits) and Paul Epworth (Adele, Florence and the Machine) favouring UA audio interfaces and software above all others.