If you’re serious about sound, Universal Audio is a name you’ve definitely heard of in the realms of audio production. From their iconic audio interfaces to game-changing effects pedals, Universal Audio (UA) has been shaping the sound of hits for decades – and now Swee Lee is proud to announce that we’ll be carrying their hallowed products!
In this blog, we’ll dive into their fascinating history and explore their must-have products. Whether you’re mixing your first track or fine-tuning your next masterpiece, Universal Audio has the tools to bring your vision to life. Hit play on your creative journey and read on!
The History of Universal Audio
Founded in 1958 by Bill Putnam Sr., Universal Audio has been a pioneer in the audio industry for over six decades. The company initially focused on developing high-quality recording equipment and quickly gained a reputation for their relentless innovation. One of their significant contributions was the introduction of the 610 tube preamp – a preamp that has since become a staple in studios worldwide.
Over the years, Universal Audio has continually evolved, integrating cutting-edge technology with analogue warmth – making their products highly sought after by professionals and audio enthusiasts alike. Today, Universal Audio is synonymous with high-fidelity sound and professional-grade recording equipment.
Why Choose Universal Audio?
Need a refresher on what makes Universal Audio stand out in the audio equipment market? Here are 3 reasons you’ve got to know:
- Heritage and Innovation: With decades of experience, Universal Audio combines classic analogue designs with modern technology to create products that deliver exceptional sound quality.
- Real-Time Processing: Their interfaces allow for real-time UAD plug-in processing, enabling musicians to track and mix with minimal latency.
- Comprehensive Product Range: From audio interfaces to microphones and effects pedals, Universal Audio offers a wide array of products tailored to meet diverse musical needs.
Overview of Universal Audio Products at Swee Lee
Swee Lee proudly carries a selection of Universal Audio products designed to enhance your music production journey. Here’s a closer look at their key offerings:
Universal Audio Audio Interfaces
Universal Audio is renowned for crafting some of the world’s most acclaimed audio interfaces, designed to elevate your recording experience to new heights. Their interfaces are not just about connecting your instruments to your computer – they’re about capturing the essence of your sound with precision and authenticity.
Universal Audio Volt Series
The Universal Audio Volt series is an excellent entry-level option for musicians and producers seeking a compact, versatile recording setup. It offers USB connectivity, is compatible with Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone, and includes a selection of UAD plugins to enhance your recordings.
The Volt series is perfect for those on the go, thanks to its bus-powered design – which simplifies setup and use anywhere. Whether you’re recording vocals, guitar, or other instruments, the Volt provides professional-quality audio with its 24-bit/192 kHz conversion.
One of the standout features of the Volt series is its ability to deliver classic studio sound with ease. It includes a Vintage Mic Preamp mode, inspired by the legendary UA 610 tube preamp, and some models feature a built-in 76 Compressor based on the iconic 1176. Here are some key features of the Volt series:
- Vintage Mic Preamp Mode: This mode allows you to capture recordings with the rich, full sound of classic UA tube preamps, ideal for adding warmth to vocals and instruments. The Vintage Mic Preamp mode is a hallmark of Universal Audio’s heritage – providing a timeless sound that’s reminiscent of legendary recordings.
- Built-in 76 Compressor: Available in select Volt models, the 76 Compressor adds clarity and punch to recordings with presets for vocals, guitar, and other instruments. It’s based on the iconic 1176 Compressor – offering a simple yet effective way to enhance your sound.
- Portability and Compatibility: The Volt series is designed to be portable and compatible with a wide range of devices, including Mac, PC, iPad, and iPhone. This makes it perfect for musicians who need to record in different locations or on various platforms.
Universal Audio Apollo Series
The Universal Audio Apollo series represents the pinnacle of UA’s audio interface technology, offering superior audio conversion and Realtime UAD Processing. Their flagship line is ideal for professional studios and live sound engineers, providing the lowest latency and highest sound quality available. Models like the Apollo Twin and Apollo x16 feature Thunderbolt connectivity for high-speed data transfer and support for a wide range of UAD plugins, making them indispensable for demanding recording environments.
The Apollo series is renowned for its ability to integrate seamlessly with UAD plugins, allowing for real-time effects processing without taxing your computer’s CPU. This capability ensures a seamless workflow, even in complex sessions. Here are some key features of the Apollo series:
- Realtime UAD Processing: This feature allows for near-zero latency processing of UAD plugins, making it perfect for live tracking and mixing. It ensures that your creative process remains uninterrupted – letting you focus on the music rather than the technology.
- Superior Audio Conversion: Apollo interfaces offer high-quality audio conversion, ensuring that your recordings capture every nuance with precision and clarity. This is crucial for professional studios where sound quality is paramount.
- Thunderbolt Connectivity: The Apollo series uses Thunderbolt for fast data transfer – ensuring that you can handle large sessions with ease. This connectivity also supports a wide range of UAD plugins, further enhancing your recording capabilities
Universal Audio Microphones
Universal Audio has recently ventured into the world of microphones, bringing their renowned expertise in audio production to a new frontier. Their microphone lineup includes the UA Bock, Sphere, and Standard Series, each designed to cater to different recording needs.
The UA Bock tube microphones, handmade in California, offer a rich, warm sound with features like a ‘Fat’ voicing switch for added depth. Meanwhile, the Sphere and Standard Series microphones leverage Hemisphere mic modelling technology, allowing users to emulate a wide range of classic microphones – from legendary studio staples to vintage models.
Universal Audio Bock Microphones
Designed by microphone whiz David Bock, Universal Audio’s Bock microphones are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, premium materials, and sound quality – making them a must-have in professional recording studios.
The UA Bock 167 is a premium large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone, crafted to deliver the classic smooth tone of the legendary U67 with modern sonic flexibility. The microphone is built with premium components, such as a dual-symmetrical K67 capsule and a Lundahl transformer – ensuring years of exceptional recordings. The UA Bock 167 features a continuously variable polar pattern, allowing users to seamlessly transition between omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 settings.
The UA Bock 187 is a versatile large-diaphragm condenser microphone, featuring a fixed cardioid polar pattern and a unique “Fat” switch that boosts low frequencies between 10 Hz and 400 Hz, adding depth to vocals and instruments. This microphone is ideal for capturing detailed yet warm recordings of instruments like piano, acoustic guitar, and bass. The Bock 187 also includes associated Apollo channel strip presets for easy setup and integration with Universal Audio’s Apollo interfaces.
The UA Bock 251 is Universal Audio’s flagship large-diaphragm tube condenser microphone, inspired by the iconic ELAM 251. It offers a smooth, open tone with extended low-frequency response down to 10 Hz, thanks to its German-made CK12 capsule and large output transformer.
Here are some key features of the UA Bock microphones:
- Versatile Recording Options: The Bock 167 and 187 are excellent for recording a variety of instruments, including piano, acoustic guitar, and bass, offering a detailed yet warm sound. Their “Fat” switch provides an additional low-end boost, making it versatile for different recording scenarios.
- Iconic Tube Sound: The Bock 251 captures the essence of the legendary ELAM 251, providing a smooth, open tone that is ideal for vocals and instruments. It features switchable omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 polar patterns, offering flexibility in recording setups.
- Premium Build Quality: Both the Bock 167, 187 and 251 are handmade in California, ensuring a high level of craftsmanship and durability. They are built with premium components, such as large Cinemag transformers and NOS tubes, to deliver consistent, high-quality sound.
Universal Audio Sphere Modeling Microphones
Universal Audio’s Sphere Modeling Microphones are part of a revolutionary system that allows you to emulate a wide range of classic microphones using Hemisphere modelling technology. This technology provides unparalleled flexibility, enabling users to transform their recordings into emulations of legendary studio microphones without needing an extensive collection. The Sphere mic collection includes features like Dual Mode and IsoSphere, which enhance the recording experience by offering precise control over the sound.
The Sphere Modeling Microphones are designed to work seamlessly with Universal Audio’s Hemisphere software, allowing users to experiment with different microphone models and settings in real-time. This capability is particularly useful for achieving specific tones in both live and studio settings.
Here are some key features of the Sphere Modeling Microphones:
- Advanced Mic Modeling: The Sphere microphones use Hemisphere modelling to accurately emulate 34 classic studio microphones, providing users with a vast sonic palette. This technology allows for precise control over the sound, making it perfect for achieving specific tones in various recording environments.
- Real-time Adjustments: Users can adjust microphone settings in real-time, allowing for instant feedback and creative experimentation during recording sessions. This feature is invaluable for capturing the perfect sound without needing multiple microphones.
- Versatility and Cost-Effectiveness: By emulating multiple microphones, the Sphere system offers a cost-effective way to achieve professional-grade sound without the need for an extensive microphone collection. This makes it ideal for home recordists and content creators looking to expand their sonic capabilities.
Universal Audio Standard Series with Hemisphere Modeling
Universal Audio’s Standard Series microphones, such as the SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7, are designed to work with Hemisphere modelling technology, offering a high degree of customization via the Hemisphere plugin. These microphones are tailored for specific recording tasks, such as capturing drums and vocals, and provide a straightforward way to model their sound after various legendary microphones. This feature is especially useful for home recordists and content creators seeking to enhance their recordings without investing in multiple microphones.
The Standard Series microphones are built to provide reliable performance in a variety of recording situations. They are designed to be easy to use and integrate well with Universal Audio’s ecosystem, including the Apollo interfaces.
Here are some key features of the Standard Series with Hemisphere Modeling:
- Specialised Recording Tasks: The Standard Series includes microphones optimised for specific recording tasks, such as the SD-3 for drums and the SD-5 for vocals. These microphones are designed to capture high-quality sound in their respective applications.
- Hemisphere Plugin Integration: Users can model their recordings after a range of classic microphones using the Hemisphere plugin, providing endless creative possibilities. This feature allows for precise control over the sound, making it perfect for achieving specific tones in both live and studio settings.
- Cost-Effective Solution: By leveraging Hemisphere modelling, the Standard Series offers a cost-effective way to achieve professional-grade sound without needing an extensive collection of microphones. This makes it ideal for musicians and producers on a budget who still want high-quality recordings.
Universal Audio Guitar Gear
Universal Audio has expanded its renowned expertise in audio production to cater to guitarists with innovative products like the UAFX Pedals and the OX Amp Top Box. The UAFX Pedals are a game-changer for guitarists, offering authentic emulations of legendary amps, reverbs, delays, and compressors. On the other hand, the OX Amp Top Box is another standout product from Universal Audio, designed specifically for guitarists who want to capture studio-quality sounds from their tube amps. Both the UAFX Pedals and the OX Amp Top Box showcase Universal Audio’s commitment to delivering high-quality and authentic sound solutions for guitarists.
Universal Audio UAFX Pedals
Universal Audio’s UAFX Pedals represent a significant leap in effects technology, offering guitarists authentic emulations of legendary studio gear. Built on Universal Audio’s proven analogue modelling expertise, these pedals deliver vintage tones with unparalleled accuracy, from iconic tube amps to classic reverbs and delays. The UAFX lineup includes models like the Golden Reverberator, Starlight Echo Station, Astra Modulation Machine, Knuckles ’92, ANTI 1992, and a whole lot more – each designed to capture the essence of amps and vintage effects. Users can enhance their sound further by downloading additional effects and customising presets via the UAFX mobile app.
The UAFX Pedals are distinguished by their powerful dual-engine processing architecture, which provides the sonic authenticity that musicians crave. This technology allows for complex and accurate sound modelling – making these pedals stand out in their quality and realism.
Here are some key features of the UAFX Pedals:
- Authentic Vintage Tones: The UAFX Pedals offer emulations of legendary studio gear, including classic amps, reverb, delay, and modulation effects. These authentic tones are achieved through Universal Audio’s advanced analogue modelling, ensuring that guitarists can capture the essence of vintage sounds with ease.
- Customisation and Expansion: Users can customise their sound by downloading additional effects and exploring presets using the UAFX mobile app. This app also allows for tweaking settings like tap tempo and preamp EQ, providing endless creative possibilities.
- Robust Build Quality: UAFX Pedals are built with timeless UA analogue design and robust craftsmanship, ensuring they are durable and will last for decades. The pedals feature silent switching, buffered bypass, and analogue dry-through, making them reliable for both live and studio use.
Universal Audio OX Amp Top Box
The Universal Audio OX Amp Top Box is a groundbreaking solution for guitarists seeking to capture studio-quality tones without the need for a physical speaker cabinet. This premium reactive load box accurately emulates the sound of a speaker cabinet, allowing musicians to achieve perfectly studio-miked amp sounds in any environment. Whether you’re recording at home or performing live, the OX Amp Top Box provides a convenient and high-quality way to work with tube amps without the space constraints of a traditional cabinet.
The OX Amp Top Box is designed to integrate seamlessly with Universal Audio’s ecosystem, offering a comprehensive solution for guitarists who want to achieve professional-grade sound without the hassle of a physical cabinet. It’s perfect for home recording setups or live performances where space is limited.
Here are some key features of the OX Amp Top Box:
- Accurate Speaker Emulation: The OX Amp Top Box accurately emulates the sound of a speaker cabinet, allowing guitarists to capture studio-quality tones without needing a physical cabinet. This feature is invaluable for achieving consistent sound in different recording and performing environments.
- Convenience and Portability: The OX Amp Top Box is ideal for musicians who need to record or perform in various settings, as it eliminates the need for a bulky speaker cabinet. This makes it perfect for home studios or live performances where space is limited.
- Integration with Apollo Interfaces: The OX Amp Top Box can be used in conjunction with Universal Audio’s Apollo interfaces, providing a complete recording solution for guitarists. This integration allows for seamless workflow and high-quality sound capture, making it a valuable tool for both professional and amateur musicians.
As you can clearly see, Universal Audio offers high-quality products that cater to the diverse needs of musicians everywhere. From their immaculate interfaces to versatile microphones and effects pedals – each item is designed to enhance your music production experience. Whether you’re setting up a home studio or looking to upgrade your gear, Universal Audio provides tools that can help you unlock a universe of stellar sounds.
Ready to elevate your music production? Shop Universal Audio at Swee Lee today! Reach out to us to learn how their exceptional products can transform your creative process and bring your musical visions to life.
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