Universal Audio (UA) is proving they listen to their community. The highly anticipated UAFX 2.0 software update has arrived, bringing significant enhancements to the functionality of all larger pedals in the acclaimed UAFX series. Best of all, this major upgrade is completely free for all owners.
Addressing long-standing user requests, the UAFX 2.0 update focuses heavily on expanded MIDI capabilities and improved wireless connectivity, making these pedals even more powerful for both studio and live use.
The Community’s Call: More MIDI, Better Bluetooth
Since their debut, UAFX pedals like the Lion ’68 Super Lead, ANTI ’70s Bass Preamp, and Knuckles ’67 have been praised for their exceptional sound quality and realistic amplifier and effect emulations. Guitar and bass players quickly heralded them as some of the best-sounding pedals on the market.
However, many users consistently highlighted key features that were missing. Frustration often centered on the stability of the Bluetooth connection and the associated UAFX app, as well as the need for more versatile MIDI integration. The lack of robust MIDI functionality for preset switching and synchronization was a significant concern for musicians looking to integrate the pedals into complex live rigs.
With UAFX 2.0, Universal Audio directly addresses these “burning wishes,” solidifying their commitment to their user base.
What’s New in UAFX 2.0?
The core of the UAFX 2.0 update is a dramatic improvement to both wired and wireless connectivity:
- Expanded USB MIDI Control: All eligible UAFX pedals now boast greatly enhanced MIDI connectivity via their respective USB-C port. By connecting to a suitable USB MIDI interface or computer, players can unlock new levels of control:
- 128 Preset Switching: Easily switch between up to 128 presets on the pedals.
- Parameter Control: Control individual pedal parameters using an external expression pedal.
- Synchronization: Time-based effects can now be synchronized with other pedals and DAWs.
- Improved Bluetooth Connection: UA has optimized the stability and performance of the Bluetooth connection between the pedals and the companion smartphone app, providing a significantly smoother user experience for detailed settings adjustments.
- USB-C Smartphone Connectivity: Users can now connect their pedal directly to their smartphone using a USB-C cable, offering a reliable alternative to Bluetooth for configuration.
Note on BPM Sync: For this update, MIDI BPM sync remains exclusively available on the UAFX time-based pedals: Astra, Galaxy, Del-Verb, and Starlight. This is an important detail for players relying on tempo synchronization.
Amp Pedals Get a Live Performance Boost!
In addition to the connectivity improvements, UAFX amp-modeling pedals receive a crucial performance-focused upgrade. The following models can now store and recall four unique presets directly on the pedal:
- Lion ’68 Super Lead
- Dream ’65 Reverb Amplifier
- Ruby ’63 Top Boost Amplifier
- Woodrow ’55 Instrument Amplifier
- ANTI ’70s Bass Preamp
- Enigmatic 74
- Knuckles ’67
This new feature is a game-changer for live musicians. Instead of relying on a single setting, players can now use a single footswitch to cycle through four distinct user presets—for example, Clean, Crunch, Reverb-ed, and Distortion—making on-the-fly tonal changes seamless and intuitive.
How to Get Your Free UAFX 2.0 Update
The update to UAFX 2.0 is free of charge for all existing owners of an eligible UAFX pedal.
The new functionality is available immediately via the UA Connect desktop application.
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