8.5Great
Softube Tape (Softube) — effect from Softube. Score 8.5/10, price $99, formats and comparisons.
Plugin comparison
Softube Tape vs UAD Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder
Specs, price and the Dubspot Score, side by side — with our verdict on which effect to buy.
Independent score / workflow fit / buying signal
Contenders
The side-by-side
8.8Great
UAD Ampex ATR-102 is an officially authenticated 2-track mastering tape machine plugin with multiple tape heads, formulas, speeds, and Auto-Gain calibration.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, UAD Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder comes out ahead (8.8). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | Softube Tape | UAD Ampex ATR-102 Mastering Tape Recorder |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $99 | $49+ |
| Dubspot Score | 8.5 | 8.8 |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX | VST3, AU, AAX |
| Product type | effect from Softube | — |
| Developer | Softube | — |
| Typical price | $99 | — |
| Formats | VST3, AU, AAX | — |
| Primary job | focused effect work in modern sessions | — |
| Catalog status | Current as of 2026 | — |
| Type | — | 2-track mastering tape recorder emulation |
| Authentication | — | Ampex Corporation authenticated |
| Tape heads | — | 1/4", 1/2", and 1" |
| Tape formulas | — | Includes GP9, 456, 900, 250 and related options |
| Features | — | Repro/Sync/Input paths, Auto-Gain, interactive GUI |
| Platform | — | Native macOS/Windows; Apollo/UAD-2 versions where licensed |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.