Analog and digital recording may seem worlds apart. From the classic vision of vintage analog recording to the modern vision of digital recording, it may appear that these two visions are separated by more than time. We are all familiar with the gradual advancement of recording technologies and how we've evolved from the analog to digital world, but few know it as well as Universal Audio.
Yellow Brick Road
Founded in 1958 by Bill Putnam, Universal Audio championed audio innovation on an unprecedented level. From artificial reverberation to the multi-band audio equalizer to the vocal booth, all of these ubiquitous recording technologies started with Putnam. These groundbreaking technologies and processes cultivated a considerable following. Names such as Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles tracked with Putnam's new developments, resulting in legendary recordings and a legacy that's hard to match.
Putnam's star-studded list of patrons goes deep into the storied lineage of pop music from the Rolling Stones to the Beach Boys, Nat King Cole to Van Halen. Simply put, Putnam knew his way around a record.
Universal Audio was re-founded in 1999 by Putnam's sons, James and Bill. Today's Universal Audio team is based in Scotts Valley, California and tirelessly works toward reproducing classic analog audio experiences and designing new digital recording tools for the creatives of today. With these goals ahead and a rich history in the rearview, Universal Audio bridges worlds for unbeatable recording at every juncture.
Across the Universe
Universal Audio's name can be found emblazoned across many different types of audio equipment from recording interfaces to effect pedals. Whether you're a home or professional producer, Universal Audio has you covered. One of Universal Audio's premier series of products, the Volt series, allows for seamless USB recording with plenty of onboard analog-inspired functions, bundled programs and plugins, and that golden-era '60s recording design aesthetic. Whatever you're recording, you're working with generations of recording know-how straight from the studios that stocked the '60s, '70s, and '80s with diamond-studded hits.
Today's Universal Audio story does not end at crack home recording, however. The brand's love for analog audio technology and their reentry into the industry right at the turn of the century breathed new life into one realm in particular – effect pedals. Today we're treated to a whole cavalcade of analog-inspired effects that run the gamut from amp-in-a-box emulators to studio-style tools like compression, delay, and reverb. Universal Audio's Orion Tape Echo, Knuckles '92 Dual Rec Amplifier, Ruby '63 Top Boost Amplifier, Astra Modulation Machine, and OX Stomp Dynamic Speaker Emulator, among many, many others, all empower players with compact, intuitive, and powerful musical tools for stage and studio. Across the entire Universal Audio catalog, there is a piece of equipment for any musician looking to access an advanced level of musicmaking.
A Universal Audio device is something of a catalyst for inspired musical creation. From its earliest days in groundbreaking analog technology to defining our modern recording landscape, Universal Audio has been a companion for musicians and their creativity. Today's Universal Audio experience may look different from its humble '50s beginnings, but the spirit to innovate and create is all the same. With a multi-generational legacy established with only more light on the horizon, Universal Audio knows their way around a record.
