Helios Type 69 Preamp and EQ Collection plugin interface by Universal Audio

Helios Type 69 Preamp and EQ Collection: Analog Preamp and EQ Plugin by Universal Audio

Rated 4.8/5 on Plugin Boutique (138 ratings)

Helios Type 69 Preamp and EQ Collection is an analog-modeling preamp and EQ plugin from Universal Audio, based on the Helios Type 69 console. It adds a three-band EQ with saturation and four low-frequency boost filters to any compatible DAW.

VST3AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

Download Now

Opens the store in a new tab

01Overview

The Helios Type 69 Preamp and EQ Collection models the analog preamp and EQ of the Helios Type 69 console, a desk associated with many well-known rock, pop and reggae records. Universal Audio says its engineers modeled two original Type 69 units to capture their custom-made character. The collection works as an effects plugin in your DAW and does not require any UA hardware. It also includes Unison technology, which lets Apollo owners track through the emulated mic preamp in realtime.

Best for

Midrange synth and guitar punch
Thick bass and low-end shaping
Drum room mic cleanup
Vocal and guitar coloration
Apollo realtime tracking

Developer: Universal Audio
Category: EQ
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Analog-style preamp and EQ modeled on Helios Type 69 consoles
Three-band EQ with saturation for bold tonal shaping
Four uniquely voiced low-frequency boost filters
Bass band switchable to fixed 50 Hz low cut
Unison technology for realtime tracking through a Helios mic preamp with Apollo
Works with any audio interface, no UA hardware required
Available in VST3, AU and AAX formats

03In depth

Analog EQ Character and Low-End Shaping

The plugin reproduces the three-band EQ of the original hardware. Universal Audio describes its saturation behavior as keeping strong EQ boosts and cuts musical, even at extreme settings. This makes it suited to pushing sources like synths and guitars for midrange attitude.

The bass section offers four low-frequency boost filters, each with a distinct voicing. Universal Audio says they add a solid, wide foundation to bass and low end. The Bass band can also switch to a fixed 50 Hz low cut mode, which the developer suggests for cleaning up overheads and room mics.

Tracking Through Helios With Apollo

With an Apollo interface, the Unison feature lets you record in realtime through the Helios Type 69 mic preamp. Universal Audio says this carries over the hardware's line and mic preamp impedance, gain stage behavior and circuit characteristics while you track.

The plugin works with any audio interface when used as a processor. Unison tracking is the part that depends on Apollo hardware.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

Developer	Universal Audio
Type	Plugin
Category	EQ
Formats	VST3, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What formats and operating systems does Helios Type 69 support?

The collection is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats and runs on Windows and macOS. The system requirements list 64-bit Windows 10 or 11 and macOS Big Sur 11 through Tahoe 26.

What do I need to use the Helios Type 69 Preamp and EQ Collection?

You need a supported DAW that is compatible with VST3, AU or AAX, plus an internet connection to download and authorize the plugins. A free iLok account is required, and a free UA Connect application is used to manage UAD Native plug-ins. An iLok USB key is optional.

Do I need Universal Audio hardware to use this plugin?

No. Universal Audio says the plugin works with any audio interface and does not require UA hardware. Unison realtime tracking through the mic preamp is the feature that uses an Apollo interface.