Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unlock the nostalgic allure of analog warmth with the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder plugin. This intuitive tool captures the essence of vintage tape machines, infusing your recordings with the clarity, punch, and warm presence that only tape can deliver. Developed by the tech wizards behind UA's celebrated Ampex and Studer emulations, Oxide offers a streamlined interface that balances power with simplicity, making it perfect for both budding producers and seasoned audio engineers.
Whether you're capturing live performances with an Apollo interface or sculpting mixes within your DAW, the Oxide Tape Recorder enhances your creative process by offering just the right amount of analog vibe. By emulating fat tape compression and colorful circuit behaviors, it provides an authentic tape saturation experience without the hassle of maintaining physical machines. Adjust the IPS (inches per second), EQ, and noise reduction settings to tailor the tape's character to your liking, and watch as your tracks transform with the cohesive glue that only tape saturation can provide.
Compatible with a wide range of audio interfaces and DAWs, the Oxide plugin ensures you can achieve professional-sounding results faster and more efficiently. Whether you're a fan of vintage tones or seeking to add depth and character to your digital recordings, this plugin is your ticket to recreating the sound of a bygone era with a modern twist.
Key Features:
- Compatible with UAD Native, Apollo Realtime, and UAD-2 hardware
- Emulates classic tape saturation and circuit overdrive
- Adjustable 7.5 and 15 IPS tape speeds with two emphasis curves
- Real-time recording through tape using Apollo interfaces
- Requires macOS 10.15+ or Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
- Supported by major DAWs: Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Studio One, LUNA
- Authorization via iLok Cloud or USB (Garageband not supported)
Product specs
| Software Type | Tape Emulation |
| Platform | Mac, PC |
| Upgrade/Full | Full |
| Download/Boxed | Download |
| Bit Depth | 64-bit |
| Format | AAX, AU, VST, UAD-2 |
| Authorization Type | iLok Account Required (UADx Native version) |
| Hardware Requirements - Mac | Intel Core 2 Duo or higher, 4GB RAM minimum |
| Hardware Requirements - PC | Intel Core 2 Duo / AMD Athlon 64 X2 or higher, 4GB RAM minimum |
| OS Requirements - Mac | macOS 11 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 10 or later |
FAQs
-
What DAW formats are compatible with the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder?
-
The Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder is compatible with AAX, AU, VST, and UAD-2 formats, making it versatile for use with most major DAWs on both Mac and PC platforms.
-
Does the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder require any special hardware for authorization?
-
Yes, the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder requires an iLok account for authorization of the UADx Native version, ensuring secure and flexible license management.
-
Can the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder run on both Mac and PC?
-
Yes, this plugin is compatible with both Mac and PC, requiring macOS 11 or later and Windows 10 or later, with hardware specifications of at least an Intel Core 2 Duo or AMD Athlon 64 X2 processor and 4GB RAM.
-
What is the primary function of the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder plugin?
-
The Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder is a tape emulation plugin designed to add warm, analog tape saturation and compression effects to digital recordings, enhancing the overall sound quality with vintage character.
-
Is the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder suitable for real-time processing?
-
Yes, the Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder is designed for real-time processing, allowing users to apply tape emulation effects during mixing and mastering sessions without significant latency.
Videos
Universal Audio
5-Minute UAD Tips: Oxide Tape Recorder
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder.
Features and functionality
-
Oxide Tape Recorder is noted for adding a significant 5dB boost around 40-50Hz, which can transform mixes but may require additional EQ adjustments.
Source -
The Oxide plugin is a simplified version of the Studer A800, developed from the Ampex ATR-102 and Studer A800 plugins, providing a unique sound profile.
Source
Comparisons
-
Airwindows ToTape8 and Softube Tape are praised as top alternatives to Oxide, offering similar functionality with different interfaces and sound profiles.
Source -
The Studer A800 is preferred for transparency, while Oxide is chosen for adding noticeable saturation to tracks, especially vocals and guitars.
Source -
Some users find the Studer A800 more flexible than Oxide, particularly appreciating its compression characteristics on drum busses.
Source
Software and compatibility
-
Users discuss that the Oxide plugin can be accessed through LUNA and potentially used in other DAWs like REAPER after installation, though availability can vary.
Source -
Some users face difficulties with Oxide Tape not appearing in UA Connect, likely needing manual fulfillment through support to resolve iLok-related issues.
Source -
It's noted that updating UA Connect via the button on the top right can resolve missing plugins, ensuring all plugins are visible and updated.
Source -
Windows users report that Universal Audio may prioritize compatibility updates for macOS over Windows, affecting plugin visibility in UA Connect.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Oxide's impact is described as particularly effective on hip-hop tracks, where its EQ and harmonic enhancements noticeably improve low and high-end clarity.
Source -
Oxide is praised for its sub extension, offering a significant low-end bump that benefits bass-heavy genres like hip-hop and EDM.
Source -
Oxide can sometimes produce harsher highs on vocals and thinner drums, making it more suitable for genres that emphasize mids and lows.
Source
Value and pricing
-
There are mentions of Oxide being bundled for free with certain UAD hardware purchases, suggesting opportunities for cost savings.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artistAlbum Usage
The Universal Audio Oxide Tape Recorder has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
More Universal Audio Tape Emulation Plugins
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Most Popular Tape Emulation Plugins
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
trakatiksGear IQ 425
-