Best UAD Plug-Ins for 2025

Our UAD plug-in library features over 200 titles, from simple preamps and guitar effects to complex mastering tools, EQs, channel strips, and more. It can be overwhelming to find the right one. So each year we compile a list of our 11 best-sellers.

1. UA 1176 Classic Limiter Collection

The original 1176 was designed by UA founder Bill Putnam Sr. and represented a major breakthrough in limiter technology with its ultra-fast FET gain reduction. The UA 1176 Classic Limiter Collection gives you the same classic compression heard on some of the greatest recordings in history.

2. API Vision Channel Strip Collection

Embrace famous API sound with the API Vision Channel Strip Collection, featuring the signature 212L preamp and 225L compressor that have graced hit records for over five decades — from Stevie Wonder's Innervisions to Radiohead's In Rainbows.

3. Pultec Passive EQ Collection

The Pultec Passive EQ Collection is an authentic emulation of the legendary tube EQs used on over 70 years of popular music. Now a classic in its own right, the UAD plug-in collection delivers astonishingly accurate emulations, all of which are used by the world’s top producers and engineers every day.

4. Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection

The Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection gives you the silky warm compression heard on hundreds of hit records, from The Beatles and Pink Floyd to countless Motown classics. It’s perfect for adding that warm analog "glow" to your vocals, drums, or entire mix.

5. Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor

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

6. UAD Sound City Studios

Produce music in one of the most famous recording studios in history with UAD Sound City Studios. This unprecedented room emulation plug-in gives you everything from the mics outboard gear to the recording console heard on classic records from Nirvana, Metallica, Fleetwood Mac, Tom Petty, and more.

7. Lexicon 224 Digital Reverb

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

8. Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder

Famously used on classic records by Stevie Wonder, Tom Petty, and Metallica, the Studer A800 stands alone for its ability to glue tracks together. The Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder is the only authentic emulation of the famed A800 tape machine located at Ocean Way Studios in Los Angeles.

9. dbx 160 Compressor/Limiter

The dbx 160 Compressor/Limiter is a faithful emulation of the first solid-state VCA compressor ever made. Capturing all the quickness and quirk of this classic studio tool, with added controls for modern workflows, the dbx 160 is the perfect choice for adding punch and attitude to nearly any source.

10. 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.

11. 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.

— UA Staff