9.2Essential
FabFilter Pro-L 2 is a true peak limiter plug-in with multiple limiting algorithms and extensive loudness metering.
Plugin comparison
FabFilter Pro-L 2 vs UAD Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection
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
8.7Great
UAD Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection emulates the legendary Fairchild 660 mono and 670 stereo tube limiters for mix bus glue and mastering-style compression.
Score verdict
Which should you buy?
On the Dubspot Score, FabFilter Pro-L 2 comes out ahead (9.2). That said, the right pick depends on your workflow and budget — read both reviews before deciding.
Technical matrix
Specs compared
| Signal | FabFilter Pro-L 2 | UAD Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $199.00 | $49+ |
| Dubspot Score | 9.2 | 8.7 |
| Formats | VST, VST3, Audio Units (AU), CLAP, AAX Native, AudioSuite | VST3, AU, AAX |
| Limiting algorithms | Eight different algorithms | — |
| Oversampling | Up to 32x linear-phase | — |
| Loudness metering standards | EBU R128, ITU-R BS.1770-4, ATSC A/85 | — |
| True peak limiting | Yes | — |
| Surround support | Up to Dolby Atmos 9.1.6 | — |
| Dithering | Advanced, with three noise shaping algorithms | — |
| Models | — | Fairchild 660 (mono) and Fairchild 670 (stereo) family |
| Type | — | Tube limiter / compressor collection |
| Classic uses | — | Mix bus glue, drums, vocals, piano, mastering color |
| Platform | — | Native and/or UAD-2 versions depending on license (confirm current SKU) |
| Manual | — | UA Help Center Fairchild Tube Limiter Collection Manual |
See the full plugin database for more comparisons.