Welcome back to HomeRecordingMadeEasy.com and a warm welcome to those tuning in from my YouTube channel! Today, we're diving into a world of sound excellence as I share with you my Top 5 Universal Audio Plugins. This is Part One, so keep your eyes peeled for a potential sequel where we'll explore more of these fantastic tools. Whether you’re mixing entirely in the box or utilizing a hybrid setup combining plugins with hardware, these plugins are absolute staples in my toolkit, and they might just become yours too.

Essential Universal Audio Plugins for Mixing Mastery

Universal Audio plugins are renowned for their precision and ability to emulate classic hardware. As a true fan of their products, I’m here to share the insights on the top five plugins I use regularly. Some of these are native versions, while others require UAD hardware. Let’s see which might be the perfect fit for your studio.

Plugin #1: MAAG EQ4

he first gem on my list is the MOG EQ4, often referred to as “plugin number UNO.” This EQ is so well-loved that it made its way onto my bucket list as hardware I absolutely must own. I’ve been using the MOG EQ4 for years, predominantly on the master bus and occasionally on lead vocals. What sets this EQ apart is its Air Band. It’s simple, yet gloriously effective, especially when you want to bring that extra punch and openness to your mix.

The MOG EQ4's ability to open up a mix with just half a decibel boost at a 2.5kHz shelf and a tad of 20kHz or 40kHz is astonishing. As of now, this isn’t a native plugin—which means you'll need the hardware to use it. But be on the lookout for Plugin Alliance’s version if native is what you’re after.

"The air band is just glorious. Very simple EQ to use, very effective."

Plugin #2: Sonnox Inflator

Let’s shine a light on the Sonics Inflator, a relative newcomer in my collection. Introduced to me by the illustrious Joe Carroll, a top-tier producer and mixing engineer from Nashville, this plugin is a powerhouse when it comes to adding color and harmonic richness to a mix. Even if you’re unfamiliar with it (as I was), it’s worth its weight in gold on the master bus.

Known for its compressor-expander characteristics, the Sonics Inflator shines in its default mode, typically with the effect dialed up to about 25-30%. It imparts a delightful saturation to your mix, making it a fixture in my sessions ever since learning about it from Joe.

"Just to add a nice little color and harmonic distortion... This thing sounds great."

Plugin #3: Ampex ATR-102 Tape Machine

Enter the world of analog emulation with the Ampex ATR-102 tape plugin, an undeniable standout in the realm of professional tape machine emulations. This plugin is remarkable on the master bus where it imbues your mix with a deep, warm low end without muddying up the overall sound.

While the ATR-102 is not shy (it’s quite pronounced in its effects), it rewards careful application by gluing the mix together beautifully. The GP9 and 456 tape formulas are my presets of choice, and coming with options to tweak biasing and other settings means you’ll have the perfect blend of tone and fidelity at your fingertips.

"If you're looking for color, for vibe, for warmth, this is the one to get."

Plugin #4: Sound City Studios Room Emulation

In recent years, Universal Audio has reinvigorated room emulation plugins with the release of Sound City Studios. Prior to this, Ocean Way had been my go-to, but no more. Sound City places you at the heart of legendary recording spaces with options for re-mic and reverb modes. This versatility makes it ideal for sessions tracked in less-than-ideal environments like a small bedroom or a garage.

Used primarily on room mics to replicate a high-end studio setting, Sound City lets you adjust mic positions and make the most out of any acoustic situation. With its massive range of EQs and dynamics controls, this plugin is a must-have for virtually any audio engineer.

"...puts you right in the middle of a world-class recording studio."

Plugin #5: Stereo Ambient Recovery by Bob Katz

Finally, consider the Stereo Ambient Recovery—a staple from the days of UAD1, thanks to mastering legend Bob Katz. This plugin does precisely what its name implies: it recovers ambient space within your mix, acting almost like a stereo widener.

The recovery tool expands your mix, providing depth and dimension, particularly when you dial in its mild settings on the master bus. Its ability to separate mid and side gain means you can finesse the mix to maintain balance, even automate these during a track’s chorus to attain that euphoric audience-engaging moment.

"An ambient recovery... gives some space and depth back to your mix."

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Conclusion

Each of these plugins holds a special place in my workflow and could potentially transform your mixes like they have mine. These top five Universal Audio plugins cover a range of functionalities from EQ and enhancement to room emulation and tape saturation, all of which are critical tools for achieving that polished, professional sound.

Be sure to let me know your favorite UAD plugins in the comments. If you’re interested in learning about another top five, drop your thoughts below. Thank you for sticking around, and until next time, keep mixing and keep creating!