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Enhanced versions of two popular UAD plug-ins arrive as part of Apollo and UAD v11.8 software updated
As a part of the Apollo and UAD v11.8 software update, these plug‑ins deliver enhanced sonics, with new features and workflows for modern music producers and engineers, or those looking to upgrade their current Shadow Hills or Maag plug‑ins.
“Shadow Hills Class A and Maag EQ4 MS give music creators access to two rare and unique sounds in the UAD catalog,” says Lev Perrey, VP of Product at Universal Audio. “Beyond the updated UI, they add entirely new sonics and workflow capabilities, expanding what’s possible for customers working with Apollo interfaces and UAD hardware.”
UAD Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A – $169 USD
The Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A plug‑in is a meticulous emulation of the legendary “Red” edition hardware — of which only 50 units were ever built. It delivers the coveted dual‑stage optical and discrete compression stages, plus switchable Nickel, Iron, and Steel output transformers so you can dial in open and airy detail to thick, saturated tone.
Sonically enhanced with Tolerance Modeling Technology by Brainworx (TMT), the updated Shadow Hills UAD plug‑in features the subtle channel‑to‑channel variations of the real analog gear, giving mixes added depth and realism. Customers can also access powerful features including Mid/Side processing, Stereo Width control, Mono Maker, Parallel Mix, scalable UI, and more — going far beyond the original hardware.
Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A – Key Features
- Updated version of rare Class A dual‑stage optical and discrete compressor plug‑in
- TMT technology by Brainworx adds subtle channel‑to‑channel variations for greater analog realism
- Switchable Nickel, Iron, and Steel output transformers for unique tone shaping
- Enhanced Class A circuitry with 1–3 dB hotter presence than the original UAD plug‑in
- Plug‑in only features: Mid/Side, Parallel Mix, Stereo Width, Mono Maker, Sidechain Filter
The Maag EQ4 MS plug‑in brings life to a classic UAD plug‑in title. Along with its iconic Air Band, the new version features Mid/Side processing, expanded frequency choices, selectable Q values.
Ideal for adding presence to vocals and instruments, the Maag EQ4 MS now brings extra clarity and depth to mixes thanks to TMT technology by Brainworx — which captures the real‑world channel variations that add analog realism unlike other matched digital EQs.
Maag EQ4 MS – Key Features
- Updated edition of the legendary EQ4 plug‑in with expanded sonics and flexibility
- TMT technology by Brainworx captures natural channel‑to‑channel differences for extra width and dimension
- Iconic Air Band delivers transparent, musical high‑end sheen for vocals and instrument
- Mid/Side processing tools for precise control of stereo image and depth
- Expanded frequency options and selectable Q values for refined tone shaping
Also included in the UAD v11.8.1 update, MIDI Learn is now available for all UAD DSP plug‑ins, giving customers hands‑on control of plug‑in parameters with compatible MIDI controllers. With a simple click, touch, move workflow, music producers working in Apollo studios with UAD plug‑ins can map knobs and faders in seconds — eliminating tedious menu diving.
Pricing & Availability
- The Shadow Hills Mastering Compressor Class A plug‑in is available for $169 (new customers) or $39 (upgrade price).
- The Maag EQ4 MS plug‑in is available for $129 (new customers) or $39 (upgrade price).
- Both plug‑ins, along with MIDI Learn functionality, are included in the Apollo & UAD v11.8.1 software update, available September 4, 2025.
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