UAD Ampex ATR-102
View productFor more than three decades, the two-channel Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder has turned music recordings into records. With its cohesive sound, punch, and ability to provide subtle-to-deep tape saturation and color, the ATR-102 is a fixture in major recording and mastering studios — and is considered by many engineers to be the best-sounding tape machine for final mixdown. The perfect complement to the workhorse Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder, the ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder plug-in for UAD-2 can provide the final “analog polish” on your music, turning songs into albums.
The UAD Ampex ATR-102 is a meticulously modeled VST plugin that emulates the iconic Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder. Originally released in the late 1970s, the hardware version of the ATR-102 quickly became a staple in professional recording studios due to its exceptional sound quality and versatility. Universal Audio, a company renowned for its high-quality audio plugins, developed the digital version to bring the classic tape sound to modern digital audio workstations.
Usage
The UAD Ampex ATR-102 is primarily used for mastering and mixing purposes. It adds the warmth, depth, and natural compression characteristic of analog tape to digital recordings. Engineers and producers often use it to:
- Enhance Mixes: Add richness and dimension to final mixes.
- Mastering: Provide the final polish and cohesion to a track.
- Tape Saturation: Introduce subtle harmonic distortion and tape compression.
- Vintage Vibe: Impart a classic analog feel to digital recordings.
Notable Artists
Several renowned artists and producers have incorporated the UAD Ampex ATR-102 into their workflow, including:
- Greg Wells: Known for his work with Adele and Katy Perry.
- Andrew Scheps: Grammy-winning mix engineer for artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Lana Del Rey.
- Vance Powell: Producer and engineer for Jack White and Chris Stapleton.
Fun Facts
- Authenticity: The UAD Ampex ATR-102 plugin was developed in close collaboration with Ampex, ensuring an authentic replication of the original hardware.
- Customization: Users can choose from various tape formulas, tape speeds, and bias settings to tailor the sound to their specific needs.
- Presets: The plugin comes with a variety of presets designed by top engineers, making it easy to achieve professional results quickly.
The UAD Ampex ATR-102 continues to be a favorite among audio professionals for its ability to bring the warmth and character of analog tape to the digital realm.