Universal Audio has announced the release of the Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder plug-in for the UAD-2 platform.

For more than three decades, artists and engineers alike have been drawn to the warm sound, solid punchy low-end, and overall presence of the Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder — by far the most popular professional 2" multitrack tape machine ever made.

Modeled by UA's DSP engineers with help from AES magnetic recording expert Jay McKnight over a 12-month period, the Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder plug-in for UAD-2 is the first and only product of its kind. This plug-in faithfully models the entire tape path and circuit electronics of the hardware, plus the sounds of four distinct tape formulas.

"This is one of those products we've been working toward for a very long time," said Matt Ward, President of Universal Audio. "Recording engineers have been pining for the magical sound of 2" analog tape on Mac and PC for years. Now, with help from Studer, independent magnetic tape experts, and our own team of DSP wizards, we can offer the true sound of analog recording on this legendary tape machine."

"The Studer legacy, including its premier analog tape machine the A800, is something we take great pride in," commented Michael MacDonald, Harman Professional Executive Vice President of Marketing and Sales. "So it was with caution that we selected a partner to develop a plug-in emulation. Put simply, it had to live up to the Studer name. With their renowned DSP engineers and the stunning sound of this plug-in, Universal Audio has exceeded our high expectations. We look forward to further collaborations."

Available for purchase via UA's Online Store, the Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder plug-in sells for $349.

Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder Plug-In features include:

• Studer-endorsed, UA-modeled emulation of the world's most popular Multichannel Tape Recorder.
• Provides the warm, natural sound and punchy low-end response of 2" analog tape from clean, to saturated, to clipped.
• Provides accurate A800 electronic path and magnetic tape model, including Input, Sync and Repro paths.
• Features four of the most popular Tape Formulas and Calibration Levels.