UAD Spotlight: How to Build a Vocal Chain

Get pro tips for flawless vocal mixes.

In this UAD Spotlight tutorial, we show you which plug-ins to use when building a vocal chain, and give you tips for transferring files, bouncing takes, and future-proofing your sessions. 

First, we walk you through a signal chain featuring favorites like the Studer A800, Oxford Dynamic EQ, and the Neve 1084. Then, you'll learn how to build vocal chains for different styles using classic Pultec EQs, 175B & 176 Compressors, and API Vision Channel Strips. Whether you're tracking a pop banger or a stripped-back ballad, these UAD plug-in tips will elevate your vocal productions instantly.

Step 1: Use Pitch Correction First

When building a vocal chain, tuning should always be your first move. If you use tools like Auto-Tune or Melodyne in your DAW, be sure to place them on the first insert slot to capture the raw, unprocessed vocal.

Step 2: Apply Gentle Resonance Suppression 

After tuning, using a suppressor can help tame unpleasant frequencies without dulling your vocal. Remember to keep it subtle. Over-suppressed vocals can lose their natural dynamics and expression. 

“Using a subtle pre-processing resonance control can set the stage for the rest of your plug-in chain,” says Drew. "While the effect is light, everything you apply after it will sound better."

Step 3: Add Tape Saturation or EQ

Next, try using a tape plug-in like the Studer A800 Tape Recorder. This will add subtle warmth and analog texture to your performance, and help it blend naturally into the mix.

“I want the Studer to react to the suppression processing before it,” Drew explains. “So I always place it afterwards.”

Sometimes tape alone doesn’t cut it, when you're looking to add some extra tone. That’s where the Oxford Dynamic EQ shines. In this session, Drew uses it to tame harsh upper mids and top-end frequencies. This approach allows the processor to adapt to the vocalists dynamics rather than just cutting static ranges.

“If you have a thin, harsh-sounding vocal, the goal is to apply enough EQ without sucking the life out of it.”

Drew Mazurek

Step 4: Use a Channel Strip for Added Tone

No vocal chain is complete without some thoughtful tone shaping. Drew’s go-to is the Neve 1084 Preamp & EQ plug-in. Here's how is he likes to use it:

Engage the high-pass filter: Cuts rumble

Boost at 220 Hz: Adds warmth and thickness

Cut at 700 Hz: Reduces honk

Boost at 10 kHz: Adds air

Bonus Tip: Use Drew's gain staging “trick” to drive saturation. Two clicks up on the gain, paired with a -10 dB pad on the output gives you beautiful Neve color without overloading.

Step 5: Finish it off with Classic Analog Sound

The end of your vocal chain is where your recording can really come to life. Drew layers a few iconic processors for both character and control:

Fairchild 670 with headroom screw maxed: Adds harmonic color and vintage glue

Empirical Labs EL8 Distressor: Locks the vocal in place, keeping it front and center

Precision De-Esser: Controls sibilance, always placed at the end

Each plug-in contributes to a more consistent, musical performance that retains the vocal’s emotion and detail.

“The job of a vocal chain is to get your voice to sit perfectly in the mix," says Drew. "Understanding how to build a vocal chain isn’t about copying settings — it’s about knowing what each plug-in contributes, and how they interact."

Ready to explore even more? Shop the full collection of UAD plug-ins for vocals and start crafting your signature sound today.

— UA Staff