Universal Audio's Triumph at the 2026 TEC Awards: A Record-Breaking Six Wins
Universal Audio made history at the 2026 NAMM Show, securing a record-breaking six TEC Awards across diverse categories. This achievement showcases their Apollo X Gen 2 interfaces, UAFX pedals, and UAD plug-ins, solidifying UA's position as a leading innovator in professional audio technology.
The TEC Awards, established in 1985, recognize excellence in audio production and product design. The winners are determined through votes from industry professionals and the public, making these awards highly prestigious. Bill Putnam Jr., UA's CEO and founder, attributes this success to the artists and engineers who have relied on their tools over the years.
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Apollo x16D: Signal Processing Hardware Excellence
The Apollo x16D interface won the Signal Processing Hardware award. Designed with front-of-house engineers and networked studios in mind, it delivers exceptional Apollo X sound quality and real-time UAD plug-in processing via Thunderbolt and Dante. With scalability up to 64 channels at 96kHz, it's currently being utilized in high-profile stadium tours featuring Iron Maiden, The Black Keys, Backstreet Boys, Paul Simon, and Kendrick Lamar.
Apollo Twin X Gen 2: Compact Audio Hardware Champion
The Apollo Twin X Gen 2, a compact desktop interface, won in the Computer Audio Hardware category. It offers high-resolution conversion, Unison mic preamps, and real-time UAD processing, enabling creators to track through emulations of classic Neve, API, and Manley gear with minimal latency.
Apollo Monitor Correction Powered by Sonarworks: Amplification Hardware Winner
Apollo Monitor Correction, a collaboration between UA and Sonarworks, won the Amplification Hardware award. This innovation brings DSP-based room and headphone calibration to Apollo X interfaces. Engineers can optimize their monitoring environment for accurate mixes using the SoundID Reference app and a measurement microphone.
UAFX Enigmatic ’82 Overdrive Special Amp: Musical Instrument Amplification & Effects
UAFX's Enigmatic ’82 Overdrive Special Amp won the Musical Instrument Amplification & Effects award, capturing three decades of sought-after ODS amplifier tones in a compact pedal format.
UAD Dream ’65 Reverb Amplifier: Musical Instrument Software Recognition
The UAD Dream ’65 Reverb Amplifier plug-in earned the Musical Instrument Software award, faithfully recreating a 1965 reverb combo amp that has graced countless recordings across genres.
A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer: Signal Processing Software Honor
The A-Type Multiband Dynamic Enhancer plug-in claimed the Signal Processing Software award, becoming the first complete emulation of a vintage multiband 'compansion' processor. It enhances presence and high-frequency clarity, ensuring vocals stand out in dense mixes.
For more information about Universal Audio and their award-winning products, visit uaudio.com (http://uaudio.com/).
