by Stefan Wyeth | 4,0 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes
UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer: Classic Dolby Compression

UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer: Classic Dolby Compression  ·  Source: Universal Audio

UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer

UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer  ·  Source: Universal Audio

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The Universal Audio A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer is a plugin recreation of a noise reduction unit from the early 1970s used on classic records.

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Universal Audio is always looking to expand the UAD plugin universe with tools that can invoke classic sounds or provide new and innovative ways of processing audio in modern workflows.

Universal Audio A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer

This time, UA went back to the early 1970s, when tape noise reduction systems began to grow in popularity. However, due to the pleasing transformer sound of the Dolby A-Type Model 361 and the way it could be used for more than just noise reduction, the unit became an industry secret used by engineers in the 1970s, 1980s, and even the 1990s.

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The key was in the multiband compander used in the design of early noise reduction systems like the A301. This system accentuated the high-frequency range in the encoding stage (recording) before the signal hit the tape machine. Then, in the decoding stage (playback), the highs and tape noise were reduced again.

What was discovered was that the encoding process, even on its own, had a particularly pleasing effect on the high frequencies. What’s more, the A-Type noise reduction units could be modified by bypassing the bottom two of the four compander bands, so that only the upper frequency range is being processed. Over time, this became known as the “Dolby A Trick” used on so many recordings.

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Universal Audio has carefully captured the magic of the A-Type in this new plugin that features Excite, Expand, Air, Crush, and Gate modes for different applications. In addition, the plugin has a unique circuit mods panel you can dive into to introduce transient shaping as well as subharmonic effects, and other creative processing.

Overall, the A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer should be a versatile processor for individual vocal and instrument tracks, channel groups like drums, or your mix bus. The combination of a classic sound and flexible modern features will make this a favourite among producers and engineers.

Universal Audio A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer
UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer · Source: Universal Audio

Pricing and Availability:

The Universal Audio A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer is available directly from Universal Audio, priced at $199. Note that this plugin is only available to users with UAD hardware processing rather than native users. Get it from Universal Audio.*

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UAD A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer: Classic Dolby Compression

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