Best UAD Plug-Ins for 2024

The Universal Audio UAD plug-in library features over 200 titles, ranging from simple preamps and guitar effects to mastering tools, EQs, channel strips, and more. Since it can be overwhelming to find the right one, each year we compile a list of our 10 best-sellers.

1. Auto-Tune Realtime X

A staple in any modern producer's arsenal, Auto-Tune Realtime X offers seamless pitch correction tailored for Apollo audio interfaces, whether you're tweaking vocals during mixdown or recording in real-time.

2. Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor

Renowned for its versatility and colorful tone, the EL8 Distressor is a favorite among producers worldwide. Experience its unique character with the Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor plug-in, the only hardware emulation fully endorsed by the original manufacturer.

3. Neve 1073 Preamp & EQ

Introduced in 1970, the Neve 1073 Channel Amplifier remains an industry benchmark. The Neve 1073 Preamp & EQ Collection encapsulates iconic Neve sound in a modern, versatile plug-in.

4. Avalon VT-737 Tube Channel Strip

Experience the polished sound synonymous with commercial hits, courtesy of the Avalon VT-737 Tube Channel Strip plug-in, fully endorsed by Avalon Design.

5. API Vision Channel Strip Collection

Embrace classic API sound with the API Vision Channel Strip Collection plug-in, featuring the signature 212L preamp and 225L compressor that have graced hit records for over five decades.

6. Manley VOXBOX Channel Strip

Trusted by the producers of industry titans like Beck, The Strokes, and U2, the Manley VOXBOX Channel Strip plug-in gives you the same modern, smooth sonics of the revered vocal channel strip.

7. Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb

This famously lush digital reverb single-handedly defined the sound of an entire era. With the Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb plug-in, you can track and mix with its eight classic reverb programs and additional chorus program.

8. Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder

Capture the warmth and saturation of analog tape with the Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder plug-in, a favorite among mastering engineers for its rich sonic character.

9. Capitol Chambers

Transport your audio back to the golden era of recording with Capitol Chambers, an emulation of the iconic reverb chambers beneath the Capitol Records building.

10. SSL 4000 E Channel Strip Collection

Embrace the bold dynamics of an SSL 4000 E console, a fixture in dozens of Grammy-winning productions. The SSL 4000 E Channel Strip Collection puts this platinum-approved sound at fingertips in crisp, end-to-end detail.

Try Before you Buy

Own an Apollo interface? Take advantage of free plug-in demos to explore all these titles and more.

Don’t own an Apollo or UA hardware? Start your free demo of UAD Spark, a collection of our best plug-ins available natively.