Universal Audio

collapse expand iconDescription

The Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 mastering tape recorder plug-in and LUNA extension provides the authentic analog warmth your recordings have been missing. Fully authenticated by Ampex Corporation, this emulation puts the colorful saturation, rich harmonics and coveted "glue" of the iconic ATR-102 tape machine at your fingertips. Whether mixing or mastering, you'll transform your digital tracks into a cohesive work of art.

A Vintage Machine for the Modern Age

With auto-gain, you can adjust repro or record levels while maintaining perfect gain staging—a delicate art that once demanded precision. The retina-enhanced GUI gives you an interactive, true-to-original experience with spinning reels and familiar controls. From subtle tape compression to all-out saturation, you have full access to the tones behind countless classic albums.

A Deep Dive Into Tape Tone

Choose from three tape heads (1/4", 1/2" and 1") and famous tape stocks (GP9, 456, 900) to craft your signature sound. Adjust tape speed, frequency emphasis and machine calibration to open up headroom or achieve grittier compression. Presets from industry veterans provide a launching point to season to taste. The results will infuse your music with the richness, depth and cohesion only possible through reel-to-reel recording.

Transform Your Mixes in LUNA

The ATR-102 LUNA Extension lets you work with real-time Ampex processing directly in LUNA's mixer. Without managing separate plug-in windows, you can saturate your tracks and busses with the full sonic imprint of this mastering legend. The dynamics, frequency response and harmonics are indistinguishable from the hallowed original.

Find Your Sound Fast

Ignite your creativity with presets from longtime ATR-102 devotees like Chuck Ainlay, Richard Dodd, Buddy Miller and Mike Poole. Their go-to settings provide an authentic starting point to craft album-ready tone with the inimitable richness of Ampex tape. Whether you need subtle enhancement or in-your-face attitude, the ATR-102 gives you a direct line to the iconic sounds behind decades of chart-topping records.

Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder Plug-in
Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder Plug-in
Universal Audio Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder Plug-in

collapse expand iconFeatures

  • Industry-standard 2-track tape machine emulation with Ampex-authenticated circuitry
  • Selectable tape types and Auto-Gain for perfect gain staging
  • Entire ATR-102 signal path modeled including transformers, amplifiers, Repro, Sync, Input
  • Use as LUNA Extension for analog tape sound in LUNA mixer

Featured Articles

collapse expand iconReviews

Be the first to review the Product

collapse expand iconQ&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked byFrank

    fromSan Diego,CA

    Can you play previous recordings?

    Can you play previous recordings?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Yes, this isn't a recorder. You would need to have the recordings on your computer.
  • asked byChrissy the wonderer

    fromLas Vegas

    Will this play tape reels recorded in the past?

    Will this play tape reels recorded in the past?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    No, this is a computer program.
  • asked bySpike

    fromundisclosed

    What are the system requirements when using this with a Mac?

    What are the system requirements when using this with a Mac?

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    macOS 10.15 Catalina or newer .
  • asked byROYAL

    fromPasadena, California

    Is this a physical tape recorder

    Is this a physical tape recorder

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    No, it isn't.