Universal Audio UAD-2 Satellite OCTO is a Thunderbolt 3 DSP accelerator carrying 8 SHARC processors to run UAD Powered Plug-Ins off the host computer. It gives access to over 100 plug-ins from Ampex, Lexicon, Studer, Neve, Manley, SSL, EMT, Helios and others, and includes the Analog Classics Plus bundle. It is backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 1 and 2 devices and carries dual Thunderbolt 3 ports for daisy-chaining.

8 processors of UAD, off the computer's back.

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A UAD-2 Satellite exists to take DSP load off the computer. UAD plug-ins run on the Satellite's own SHARC processors rather than the host CPU, which means a large mix loaded with emulations does not compete with the DAW for resources.

The library is the reason people buy into UAD in the first place. Over 100 plug-ins are available, with emulations licensed from Ampex, Lexicon, Studer, Neve, Manley, SSL, EMT, Helios and others, rather than modeled without authorization. The Analog Classics Plus bundle is included, covering Legacy editions of the LA-2A Classic Audio Leveler, the 1176 Classic Limiting Amplifiers and Pultec equalizers.

Satellites combine with other Thunderbolt-equipped UAD-2 devices, including PCIe cards, UA audio interfaces and additional Satellites, so DSP can be added over time rather than bought all at once. Plug-ins run in Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Live and other major DAWs.

At a Glance

What Does a UAD-2 Satellite Actually Do?

It runs UAD plug-ins on its own 8 SHARC processors instead of on the computer's CPU. On a large mix that means the emulations and the DAW are not competing for the same resources, so track counts and plug-in counts stop being a trade against each other.

Who Is UAD-2 Satellite OCTO For?

Mix engineers running sessions heavy with UAD emulations, studios that already own UAD plug-ins and have run out of DSP, and anyone whose computer is otherwise adequate but stalls once the plug-in count rises. It also combines with existing UAD-2 hardware rather than replacing it.

What Is the Difference Between QUAD and OCTO?

Processor count. QUAD carries four SHARC processors and OCTO carries eight, so OCTO runs roughly twice the plug-in load. Everything else about the two is the same, and both combine with other UAD-2 devices to add more DSP later.

What Plug-Ins Are Included?

The Analog Classics Plus bundle, covering Legacy editions of the LA-2A Classic Audio Leveler, the 1176 Classic Limiting Amplifiers and Pultec equalizers. Custom packages with user-selectable plug-ins are also offered by Universal Audio. Call 844-687-4208 to discuss which configuration suits your session work.

Connections

Why Universal Audio?

Universal Audio was founded in 1958 by M.T. "Bill" Putnam, the engineer who built the first recording console with integrated equalization and effects sends, and who designed the 1176 and the 610. The company was revived in 1999 by his sons and now does two things: it still hand-builds analog hardware in California, and it licenses and models the classics from Neve, API, Manley, SSL, Lexicon, Studer, Ampex and others rather than emulating them without authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a genuine Universal Audio product?

Yes. Victory is a veteran owned dealer in Miami and units ship new in original packaging with full manufacturer support, including software registration rights.

Is this covered by warranty?

Yes. This unit carries the full Universal Audio manufacturer warranty, registered to you as the original purchaser. Call 844-687-4208 for the current term.

Do I need a UA interface to use it?

No. A Satellite adds UAD DSP to any system. It also combines with UA interfaces and UAD-2 PCIe cards if you already own them.

How many plug-ins can it run at once?

It depends on which plug-ins are loaded, since they vary in DSP cost. This model carries 8 SHARC processors. Call 844-687-4208 to talk through your typical session.

Which DAWs does it work with?

Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Cubase, Live and other major DAWs. Check UA's current system requirements for your operating system version.

Why Buy From Victory Musical Instruments?

Victory Musical Instruments is a pro audio and musical instrument dealer in Miami, Florida. We support churches, schools, studios and working musicians across South Florida and ship nationwide. Every unit is new in the original factory packaging with full manufacturer support. Call 844-687-4208 to check lead time, request a quote, or arrange local pickup.