Exploring Universal Audio’s Verve Analog Machines

An All-in-One Saturation Powerhouse from UA

Universal Audio (UA) is renowned for its superb analogue modeling plugins, often known for detailed emulations of specific equipment with numerous control options. With Verve Analog Machines and its simpler version, Verve Analog Machines Essentials, UA offers a new approach. These plugins provide a variety of emulated devices with minimal controls, available for both Mac and Windows desktop systems, though not compatible with UA DSP interfaces or accelerator cards.

Verve Analog machines offers a diverse set of modelled saturation effects within a single plugin with a simple interface. The first thing that stands out is the pure range of options available - unlike many of UAD’s offerings, which are typically limited to a single, high-quality model of an existing audio unit. With Verve Analog Machines, you can choose from four saturation models with the ‘Essentials’ option, or an expanded collection of up to 10 models with the full version (currently on sale at $49 USD).

It’s refreshing to get such a range of sounds within such a simple interface. Some of the tamer sounding patches (such as 'sweeten’) do a great job of creating a mixing essential - a ‘go-to’ tool for adding warmth and grit to drums, vocals - or even on the mix buss. Similar to Universal Audio’s Studer A800, there’s always a temptation to throw it onto every track, as it can feel versatile. All without the requirement to spend hours knob-twiddling in order to get an acceptable sound.

Each model either emulates a tape machine or preamp module. While ever-sceptical of after-the-fact preamp emulations, Verve Analog Machines certainly adds a range of distinct colors. The additional effects knobs included in the full version adds an additional bucketload of character with the tape warble and tonality controls.

While the lack of complexity certainly works within it’s favour, some obvious missing features do make it less action-packed than other in-the-box saturation plugins. For example, no EQ or mix knob controls. However, this in itself might ruin what makes Verve Analog Machines so great. It’s beginner-friendly, sounds beautiful, and is another success in UAD’s vision to get the sound of high-end gear into the hands of regular musicians. This unique plugin is a valuable tool for music producers looking for an efficient way to add warmth and character to their tracks.