UAD Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder
Universal Audio · $49+
UAD Studer A800 is a licensed multitrack 2-inch tape machine emulation for track-by-track analog tape color, calibrated paths, and mix glue.
The multitrack tape standard in software—print tracks or buses through modeled A800 paths when you want console-era tape cohesion.
Best for: Producers who want multitrack tape color on drums, guitars, and full sessions rather than only a final 2-track machine.
Pros
- Licensed Studer A800 multitrack tape modeling
- Ideal for track-by-track tape or grouped bus printing
- Controls for tape types, IPS speeds, and calibration-style behavior
- Complements ATR-102's mastering 2-track role
Cons
- Multiple instances can be CPU-heavy on large sessions
- Overlaps free Chow Tape and Softube Tape for simpler tape needs
- Requires taste—stacked tape on every track can smear a modern mix
Overview
The UAD Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder models the 2-inch multitrack tape era: the sound of tracks printed to a big machine before the mix. Where ATR-102 is the mastering 2-track, A800 is the session tape deck for drums, guitars, and group buses.
It excels at cohesive multitrack color. Tape compression, head bump, and saturation help digital recordings sit together. Many mixers put it on drum buses or parallel paths rather than every vocal. IPS speed and tape type choices change the weight of the low end and the softness of highs.
The trade-offs are CPU and taste. Many instances of deep tape models add load. Softube Tape and free Chow Tape deliver simpler tape glue for less money. If you only want final bus polish, ATR-102 may be the better single insert.
Choose Studer A800 for multitrack tape culture in the box. Choose ATR-102 for mastering 2-track glue, Softube Tape for simpler commercial tape, or Chow Tape when free physical modeling is enough. Start with moderate drive and compare bypass often.
A practical session approach is A800 on the drum bus and key instrument groups, then ATR-102 last on the stereo mix—multitrack cohesion first, mastering 2-track polish second.
Specifications
- Type
- Multichannel multitrack tape recorder emulation
- Heritage
- Modeled after Studer A800 2-inch multitrack class machines
- Classic uses
- Drums, guitars, session-wide tape printing, bus glue
- Platform
- Native and/or UAD-2 depending on current SKU (confirm on product page)
- Related
- Pairs conceptually with Ampex ATR-102 for 2-track mastering tape
Last verified 2026-07-16
FAQ
Studer A800 vs Ampex ATR-102?
A800 is multitrack tape for tracks and subgroup buses. ATR-102 is a mastering 2-track machine typically used on the stereo mix/master.
Should I put A800 on every track?
You can, but many engineers use it on drums, guitars, or key buses rather than every insert. Over-stacking tape can dull transients.
Is free Chow Tape enough?
For budget tape color, yes. A800 targets the specific Studer multitrack workflow and tone many mixers want as a named machine.
Direct competitors
UAD Studer A800 Multichannel Tape Recorder vs — head-to-head specs, price, and Dubspot Score.