The latest release from Kush Audio revisits their popular UBK-1 plug-in, kitting it out with a range of updated features that include two new saturation engines. The company say that they hope UBK-2 represents a massive leap forward from its predecessor, while still retaining the character and ease of use that users loved.
The latest version of the plug-in still takes the same approach as the original, with a large central Smash control governing the amount of compression being applied. Three new compression curves have been added, bringing the total count to eight, all of which feature adjustable attack and release times — they also benefit from a gain-reduction match feature, allowing users to switch between them and audition the results while maintaining consistent levels.
A pair of saturation engines complement the plug-in’s compressor section — one is placed before the dynamics processing with a control range that extends from Light to Heavy, while the second, post-compression control spans from Mild to Intense. There’s also some EQ, which is the first processor in the plug-in’s signal chain, and offers four bands that are based on the company’s Magpha algorithms. Finally, a Blend control in the Output section makes it possible to reduce the amount of compressed signal present at the output; with the control set all the way to the left, only the saturation sections will be heard.
You can check out our review of the original UBK-1 plug-in here.
Compatibility
UBK-2 is supported on macOS and Windows operating systems.
Pricing & Availability
UBK-2 is available now, and is currently (30 August 2024) being offered for an introductory price of $99, reduced from its full cost of $199. Those who own a license for UBK-1 can upgrade for $49.