Following its v1.9 update in July – introducing a series of AI-powered features – Universal Audio has issued another sweeping update for its free digital audio workstation, LUNA.
LUNA 2.0 introduces a set of user-requested features including ARA (Audio Random Access) Support, Volt 876 integration and upgraded Instrument Detection, the AI-powered feature which can label and colour code your tracks based on the instrument files you record or import.
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The paid, Pro tier of Luna 2.0 also brings 15 new UAD plugins and instruments, hardware inserts and ARA plugins, which, UA says, will help producers “take projects from demo to final mix with a streamlined workflow”.
“LUNA has always been about capturing the feel of analogue recording in a modern digital space,” says Lev Perrey, VP of Product at Universal Audio.
“LUNA 2.0 builds on that vision with faster editing, smarter integration, and even more of the analogue character that creators love.”
There’s the top-down view, so let’s dive a little deeper into what’s new for LUNA 2.0…
What’s new in LUNA 2.0 (Free)
ARA Support
ARA Support – which enables plugins to have direct access to audio data meaning they can process audio instantly without time-consuming rendering – is now included with LUNA 2.0. This upgrade, UA says, “brings LUNA in line with professional workflows used in studios worldwide”.
Volt 876 integration
Earlier this month, Universal Audio updated its Volt line of audio interfaces, introducing the first rackmount interface to the line, the Volt 876. LUNA 2.0 brings dedicated support for the Volt 876, with users able to control preamp gain, cue mixes, and Assistive Auto-Gain settings directly from within LUNA 2.0.
“This integration provides full session recall of front-panel settings and a unified software/hardware workflow,” says UA.
Upgraded Instrument Detection
In addition to being able to automatically colour code and label audio tracks based on instrument type, LUNA’s Instrument Detection feature now adds icons to tracks, further streamlining session organisation.
What’s new in LUNA Pro 2.0
Expanded UAD plugin and instrument library
The Pro tier of LUNA 2.0 brings 15 new UAD plugins and instruments, now offering a total of 29, giving users access to a larger-than-ever selection of iconic analogue emulations and creative tools for professional mixing and production.
Hardware inserts
LUNA Pro 2.0 now enables users to route audio through analogue outboard gear with automatic delay compensation, and integrate their favourite compressors, EQ units and other effects into the LUNA mixer with a single click – and even save it as a preset to recall anytime.
ARA tools
LUNA Pro 2.0 now offers enhanced vocal editing workflows, with Celemony Melodyne Essential and Noiseworks DynAssist Lite now included as standard.
ChordAxe Lite
ChordAxe Lite – an intuitive MIDI effect which helps with composition by aiding chord selection and harmonic progression – will arrive to LUNA 2.0 “soon”, UA says, helping musicians “quickly build arrangements and explore musical ideas”.
Pricing & availability
Both the free and paid Pro tiers of LUNA 2.0 are available now for download, both on macOS and Windows. LUNA Pro 2.0 is priced at $199, with a limited-time introductory price of $129.
Additionally, existing Universal Audio LUNA Pro users can get a free upgrade to LUNA Pro 2.0 until 31 December, 2025.
To download or simply learn more, head to Universal Audio.
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