UJAM Finisher - Detailed Review
Music Tools
UJAM Finisher - Product Overview
UJAM Finisher Overview
UJAM Finisher is a series of audio effect plug-ins that simplify the process of enhancing and transforming your music tracks. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
UJAM Finisher is designed to combine the functionality of an entire effects rack into a single, easy-to-use plug-in. It aims to provide instant gratification and inspiration for musicians, producers, sound designers, and even podcasters, allowing them to focus on their music rather than getting bogged down in technical audio processing tasks.
Target Audience
The Finisher series is targeted at a wide range of users, including musicians, producers, sound designers, and podcasters. It is particularly useful for those who want to add creative and professional-quality effects to their tracks without needing extensive technical knowledge.
Key Features
- Multi-Effect Chains: Each Finisher plug-in features 50 or more multi-effect chains, known as “Modes,” which are pre-configured by professional sound designers. These modes can draw on up to 20 individual effects and are organized into different categories or themes, such as decade-based categories (e.g., ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s) in the case of Finisher Retro.
- Simple Interface: The UI is hyper-simplified, with only a few macro-style knobs that control multiple parameters in the effects chain. This makes it easy to use without a steep learning curve. For example, Finisher NEO features three simple macro knobs that control dozens of parameters under the hood.
- Presets and Modes: Each Finisher plug-in comes with a large number of presets (e.g., 100 presets in Finisher Retro, 130 presets in Finisher NEO) that provide instant inspiration. The modes can be switched without audio drop-outs, ensuring smooth operation.
- Compatibility: Finisher plug-ins are available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, making them compatible with a variety of digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Logic, Garageband, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools.
Overall, UJAM Finisher offers a user-friendly and creative way to enhance your music tracks with a wide range of professional-quality effects, all while keeping the process simple and enjoyable.
UJAM Finisher - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The interface is simple and uncluttered, making it accessible to users of all skill levels. Here are the key components:
- Preset Area: Allows you to select, load, and save presets. You can browse through nearly 300 presets organized into several categories.
- Mode Selector: You can choose from 50 different Modes, each of which is essentially a pre-configured multi-effects chain. The Mode Selector includes arrows to switch between Modes and a Mode Browser to explore different categories.
- Vari Knobs: Four tweakable variation knobs (Vari Knobs) are available for fine-tuning the effects within each Mode. These knobs are linked to key parameters specific to each Mode.
- Finisher Knob: A central Finisher knob acts as a macro control, often functioning as a wet/dry control and linked to other parameters. This knob allows you to adjust the overall effect intensity.
- Input and Output Level Controls: These controls help you manage the signal levels of your audio tracks.
Ease of Use
The interface is deliberately kept simple to ensure ease of use. Here are some key points:
- Simplified Controls: The UI prioritizes ease of use over extensive parameter lists. This means you can achieve great sounds without getting bogged down in detailed settings.
- Resizable Interface: The user interface is resizable, making it adaptable to different screen sizes. You can resize it by clicking the “Window” icon or dragging the bottom right corner of the interface.
- Quick Start: You can quickly get started by opening the plugin, selecting a preset, and adjusting the Finisher and Vari knobs to taste. This approach allows for fast and intuitive sound design.
Overall User Experience
The user experience is designed to be fast, fun, and musical:
- Instant Results: The Finisher plugins are built to deliver instant gratification. You can quickly browse through presets and Modes to find the right sound for your tracks without spending too much time tweaking.
- Genre-Specific Flavors: Each Finisher plugin, such as Finisher RETRO, is designed to deliver genre-specific flavors. For example, Finisher RETRO adds flavors from the 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s to your tracks.
- Inspiration and Creativity: The plugins are intended to keep you inspired and focused on your music. They protect you from recording or mixing bland tracks by offering a dash of fresh inspiration with each use.
Overall, the UJAM Finisher plugins offer a user-friendly experience that combines sophisticated sound processing with ease of use, making them ideal for musicians, producers, and sound designers who want to create interesting and beautiful tracks quickly.
UJAM Finisher - Key Features and Functionality
The UJAM Finisher Series
The UJAM Finisher series is a revolutionary audio effect plugin that simplifies the process of sound design and audio processing, making it accessible and intuitive for musicians, producers, sound designers, and even podcasters.
Simplified Interface
One of the key features of the Finisher plugin is its super-simplified interface. This design ensures that users can achieve sound design inspiration without the hassle of complicated setups or a steep learning curve. The interface is user-friendly, allowing you to focus on your music rather than getting bogged down in technical details.
Multi-Effect Chains (Modes)
The Finisher plugin uses pre-configured Modes, which are essentially scripted and automated multi-effect chains. These Modes are created by professional sound designers and can be easily browsed through and applied to your tracks. This feature allows you to switch between different effect configurations with just a few clicks, making it easy to find the right sound for your music.
Macro Controls and Variation Knobs
Finisher NEO, for example, comes with five macro knobs that give you full control over the effects without the need for intricate adjustments. The Variation knobs allow you to make musically useful changes to the current Mode, such as adjusting delay times, EQ characteristics, or distortion curves. This flexibility enables you to customize the effects to fit your track perfectly.
Diverse Effect Algorithms
The Finisher plugins incorporate a wide range of effect algorithms, including but not limited to:
- Chorus
- Vibrato
- Phaser
- Synthesize
- Drones
- Time warp
- Evolving freeze
- Delays
- Glitch effects
- Multiband distortion
- Convolution
- Grain and pitch effects
- Multimode filters
- Multitap delays
These algorithms are combined in various ways to create the different Modes, offering a vast array of creative possibilities.
AI Integration
While the primary functionality of the Finisher plugins does not explicitly rely on AI, the integration of Finisher FX within other UJAM products, such as the UFX Reverb, does leverage AI. For instance, the UFX Reverb plugin uses AI to make designing reverbs easier and more creative, and it includes the Finisher FX engine to add additional effects. This combination allows for more complex and creative sound designs without requiring extensive technical knowledge.
Ease of Use and Instant Gratification
The Finisher plugins are engineered to provide instant gratification. You can quickly browse through the ready-made Modes and apply them to your tracks, making it easy to enhance your sound without spending hours tweaking individual effects. This ease of use ensures that you can focus on the creative aspects of your music while the plugin handles the technical side.
Versatility
Finisher can be thought of as a channel strip with virtually unlimited slots for effect processors. This versatility means you can use it across various types of audio, from vocals and guitars to drums and synth sounds, making it a versatile tool for any music production or sound design task.
Conclusion
In summary, the UJAM Finisher series offers a powerful, yet easy-to-use solution for sound design and audio processing, combining the functionality of multiple effects into a single, user-friendly plugin.
UJAM Finisher - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
The UJAM Finisher plugins are known for their high-performance capabilities, particularly in terms of sound quality and ease of use. Here are some highlights:
- The plugins offer an extensive collection of pre-made effects chains, each comprising a unique array of effects such as distortion, modulation, reverb, and rhythmic processors. This variety ensures that users can achieve a wide range of sounds, from subtle and tasteful to aggressive and over-the-top.
- The interface is super-simplified, allowing users to focus on their music without getting bogged down in complicated settings. This simplicity does not compromise on sound quality, as the plugins deliver high-quality audio processing.
- The Finisher series includes multiple modules, such as Finisher RETRO, Finisher NEO, and Finisher VOODOO, each with its own set of effect algorithms. For example, Finisher NEO uses 27 different effect algorithms, while Finisher VOODOO uses up to 40 effect modules.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, the UJAM Finisher plugins are praised for their faithful emulations of classic hardware and their ability to produce consistent, high-quality results:
- The sound designers at UJAM have put significant effort into creating complex multi-FX chains that transform intricate parameter settings into easy-to-use controls. This ensures that the effects are accurate and consistent across different presets and settings.
- The plugins are capable of producing a wide spectrum of effects, from truthful emulations of classic hardware to entirely new and unique creations. This versatility makes them accurate tools for achieving specific sound designs.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
While the UJAM Finisher series is highly regarded, there are a few limitations and areas where improvements could be made:
- One of the main limitations is the restricted tweakability of the effects. Users do not have detailed control over the exact signal flow and parameter settings within each module, which might be a drawback for those who prefer more granular control over their effects.
- Some users have noted that certain effects can get a bit out of hand when it comes to stereo imaging, which could require additional adjustments to maintain a balanced mix.
Overall, the UJAM Finisher series is highly effective in delivering high-quality sound design with ease, making it a valuable tool for musicians, producers, and sound designers. However, users who require more detailed control over their effects might find the simplicity of the interface to be a limitation.
UJAM Finisher - Pricing and Plans
General Pricing
UJAM does not provide a detailed breakdown of different tiers or plans specifically for the Finisher series on their website. However, the Finisher plugins are generally sold as individual products or as part of larger bundles.Individual Plugins
Each Finisher plugin can be purchased separately. The prices for these plugins vary, but they are typically listed on the UJAM store page. For example, you can find the prices for Finisher Neo, Finisher VOICE, and other variants by visiting the store section of the UJAM website.Bundles and Collections
UJAM often offers bundles and collections that include multiple plugins, including the Finisher series. These bundles can provide a cost-effective way to access multiple tools. For instance, UJAM sometimes offers a full bundle that includes all their virtual instruments and effects, which can be a more economical option if you need multiple plugins.Free Options
Currently, there is no permanent free version of the full Finisher plugins available. However, UJAM has offered free versions or trials of some of their products in the past. For example, the Finisher Micro was available for free until September 4, 2024, but this was a limited-time offer.Promotions and Sales
UJAM occasionally runs promotions and sales, which can significantly reduce the prices of their plugins. These sales are usually announced on their website and can include discounts on individual plugins or bundles.Conclusion
If you are looking for the most current and specific pricing, it is best to check the UJAM store directly, as prices and promotions can change over time. UJAM Finisher - Integration and Compatibility
UJAM Finisher Series Overview
The UJAM Finisher series, including Finisher NEO and Finisher Pro, is designed to be highly integrated and compatible with a wide range of music production tools and platforms. Here are some key points regarding its integration and compatibility:Platform Compatibility
UJAM Finisher plug-ins are available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, making them compatible with most popular digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Logic Pro, Garageband, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools.Operating System Support
These plug-ins are compatible with both Windows and macOS. Specifically, they support Windows 8 or later (64-bit only) and macOS 10.12 to macOS 12 (64-bit only). While they may run on earlier versions, UJAM does not provide official support for those.System Requirements
To run UJAM Finisher, you need at least 4 GB of RAM, 0.09 GB of disk space, and a display resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. An internet connection is also required for download and authorization.Plugin Formats and Standards
The Finisher plug-ins support MIDI and come in VST and AU 2 formats. The AU 2 version is specifically compatible with Logic Pro X and newer versions.Ease of Use and Integration
The Finisher series is known for its user-friendly interface, which allows for easy integration into your music production workflow. With features like 50 pre-designed Modes (complex multi-effect chains) and simple macro controls, you can quickly apply and adjust effects without needing extensive technical knowledge. This makes it accessible for musicians, producers, sound designers, and even podcasters.Compatibility with Other Tools
Given its standard plugin formats, UJAM Finisher can be seamlessly integrated with other music production tools and software. For example, you can use it within your DAW to enhance tracks, or combine it with other effects and instruments to create a comprehensive sound design setup.Conclusion
In summary, the UJAM Finisher series is well-integrated with a variety of music production environments and is compatible with major DAWs and operating systems, making it a versatile and user-friendly addition to any music production setup. UJAM Finisher - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
UJAM provides several avenues for customer support. The most direct way to get help is by visiting their helpdesk, where you can browse through a collection of FAQs or contact support directly for individual inquiries. This helpdesk is the fastest and most efficient way to get product-related support.
For specific issues, you can reach out to UJAM’s customer support team, which is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 17:00 CET. They support both English and German languages.
Additional Resources
- Helpdesk and FAQs: The helpdesk is a comprehensive resource that includes FAQs and direct contact options for support. This is where you can find answers to common questions and get assistance with any issues you might encounter.
- Contact Information: For more specific inquiries, such as legal matters, you can email
legal (at) ujam . com. General contact information, including the company’s address and business hours, is also provided. - Product Documentation and Tutorials: While the specific website provided does not detail extensive documentation or tutorials, the nature of UJAM Finisher as a user-friendly plug-in suggests that there may be resources available on their main website or through the helpdesk to help users get started and make the most of the product.
Product Support Features
UJAM Finisher is designed with a super-simplified interface to ensure that users can focus on their music without getting bogged down in technical details. The plug-in features ready-made Modes and presets that make sound design easy and inspiring, reducing the need for extensive technical support.
In summary, UJAM offers a well-structured support system through their helpdesk, direct contact options, and a user-friendly product design that minimizes the need for extensive technical support.
UJAM Finisher - Pros and Cons
Pros of UJAM Finisher
The UJAM Finisher series offers several significant advantages for music producers, composers, and sound designers:Extensive Collection of Effects
The Finisher Bundle includes an extensive collection of pre-made effects chains, with 225 unique modules and 545 presets across the different plugins. This provides a vast array of sound design options, from subtle to aggressive effects.High-Quality Sound
The sound quality of the Finisher plugins is consistently high, whether you are using distortion, modulation, reverb, or rhythmic processors. The effects are either truthful emulations of classic hardware or entirely new and unique creations.Easy-to-Use Interface
The interface of the Finisher plugins is super-simplified, making it easy to use without requiring a deep understanding of complex effect chains. You can quickly browse through ready-made modes and adjust a few essential controls to achieve the desired sound.Inspiring and Time-Saving
The Finisher plugins are highly inspiring and time-saving. They allow you to focus on your music rather than spending hours tweaking complex processor chains. The many available modules and presets enable quick experimentation and finding the right sound without much hassle.Versatility
Each Finisher plugin focuses on a distinct field of processing, such as analog emulation (Finisher Retro), rhythmic effects (Finisher Fluxx), or unique sound design (Finisher Voodoo and Finisher Neo). This versatility makes them suitable for various musical genres and production needs.Cons of UJAM Finisher
While the UJAM Finisher series offers many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to consider:Limited Tweakability
One of the main cons is the restricted tweakability of the effects. Since the plugins simplify complex effect chains into a few controls, you may not know exactly what your signal is being fed through, which can limit detailed adjustments.Stereo Imaging Issues
Some users have noted that certain effects can get a bit out of hand when it comes to stereo imaging, which might require additional adjustments to balance the sound.Pricing
While the plugins are competitively priced, with individual plugins available for €99 and the full bundle for €269, this could still be a significant investment for some users. However, the value lies in the extensive collection of high-quality effects and the ease of use. UJAM Finisher - Comparison with Competitors
When Comparing UJAM’s Finisher Series
When comparing UJAM’s Finisher series with other products in the music tools and AI-driven effects category, several key points and alternatives come to light.
Unique Features of UJAM Finisher
- Simplicity and Ease of Use: The Finisher series is renowned for its hyper-simplified interface, making it easy for users to achieve complex sound designs without getting lost in a multitude of knobs and buttons. This simplicity is a significant selling point, especially for those who prefer quick and inspiring results over deep parameter tweaking.
- Multi-Effect Chains: Each Finisher plugin includes a vast array of pre-configured multi-effect chains, known as “Modes,” which combine various effects like distortion, modulation, reverb, and rhythmic processors. This allows users to quickly switch between different sound designs without the need for extensive setup.
- Genre Versatility: The Finisher series caters to a wide range of genres, from vintage tones with Finisher Retro to futuristic sound design with Finisher Neo. This versatility makes the Finisher plugins adaptable to various musical contexts.
Alternatives and Competitors
Native Instruments
Native Instruments offers a range of software and hardware solutions for audio production and DJing. While they provide detailed control over effects and instruments, their products often come with a steeper learning curve compared to UJAM’s Finisher series. Native Instruments’ products are more suited for users who prefer deeper parameter control and integration with hardware.
Steinberg
Steinberg is known for its comprehensive music production and scoring software, including Cubase. Their products offer extensive control over audio processing but may not match the ease of use and instant gratification provided by UJAM’s Finisher plugins. Steinberg’s tools are more geared towards professional producers who need detailed control over their audio.
Output
Output focuses on innovative software and gear for music production. Their products, such as the Signal and Movement plugins, offer creative effects but often require more user input and tweaking compared to the Finisher series. Output’s tools are ideal for producers looking for unique sounds but are willing to spend time adjusting parameters.
Propellerhead (Reason Studios)
Propellerhead, now known as Reason Studios, offers a digital audio workstation (DAW) with a modular cable routing system. While their software includes a variety of effects and instruments, it requires a more in-depth understanding of signal routing and parameter adjustment. This makes it less straightforward than the Finisher series but highly customizable.
Soniccouture
Soniccouture specializes in high-quality virtual instruments and avant-garde sound design. Their products offer unique sound libraries but are more focused on specific instrument emulations rather than the broad range of multi-effect chains provided by the Finisher series. Soniccouture’s tools are excellent for adding distinctive textures to music but may not offer the same level of ease and versatility as UJAM’s Finisher.
Conclusion
UJAM’s Finisher series stands out for its ease of use, extensive collection of pre-made effects chains, and high-quality sound. While competitors like Native Instruments, Steinberg, and Propellerhead offer more detailed control and customization, they often come with a steeper learning curve. If you prioritize simplicity and quick, inspiring results, the UJAM Finisher series is an excellent choice. However, if you are comfortable with deeper parameter control and need more customization options, the alternatives mentioned above might be more suitable.
UJAM Finisher - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about UJAM Finisher
What is UJAM Finisher?
UJAM Finisher is a series of audio effect plugins designed to combine the functionality of an entire effect rack with the simplicity and instant gratification of a single vocal or guitar effect plugin. It is intended to inspire and enhance your music without requiring extensive technical knowledge.What are the key features of UJAM Finisher?
Key features include a modular engine with multiple algorithms (such as granular pitch and multi-band distortion), pre-made Modes (complex multi-effect chains created by professional sound designers), and a simple interface with macro knobs that control numerous parameters. Finisher plugins also come with a large number of presets for instant inspiration.How easy is it to use UJAM Finisher?
UJAM Finisher is designed to be hyper-simplified and user-friendly. It features a straightforward interface with no complicated setup, no multitude of knobs and buttons, and no learning curve. Users can simply browse through the ready-made Modes and adjust the macro knobs to achieve the desired sound.What types of effects can I achieve with UJAM Finisher?
UJAM Finisher offers a wide range of effects, including classic reverbs, delays, flangers, tube simulations, and tape hiss. The plugins are versatile and can be applied to various audio sources such as vocals, guitars, drums, and more. For example, the Finisher RETRO plugin focuses on capturing classic effects.Are there different versions of UJAM Finisher?
Yes, there are several versions of UJAM Finisher, including Finisher NEO, Finisher RETRO, and Finisher MICRO, among others. Each version has its unique set of features and effects. For instance, Finisher NEO is the first professional-grade audio effect from the series and includes 27 algorithms and 50 Modes.Can I try UJAM Finisher before purchasing?
Yes, UJAM offers a fully functional 30-day trial for all Finisher plugins. This allows you to test the software and see if it fits your needs before making a purchase.What formats is UJAM Finisher available in?
UJAM Finisher plugins are available in VST, AU, and AAX formats, making them compatible with a wide range of digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Logic, Garageband, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools.How much does UJAM Finisher cost?
The pricing for UJAM Finisher varies depending on the specific plugin. For example, Finisher NEO was initially introduced at a price of 69 EUR/USD and later set to the regular price of 99 EUR/USD. There may also be special offers and sales available from time to time.Is UJAM Finisher suitable for different types of music and users?
Yes, UJAM Finisher is designed to be versatile and suitable for musicians, producers, sound designers, and even podcasters across various genres. It can be used for movie scores, EDM, jazz, classical music, and commercial pop music, among others.Can I use UJAM Finisher on both macOS and Windows?
Yes, UJAM Finisher plugins are compatible with both macOS and Windows operating systems, ensuring that users on different platforms can utilize the software. UJAM Finisher - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of UJAM Finisher
The UJAM Finisher series is a revolutionary line of audio effect plugins that combine the functionality of an entire effect rack with the simplicity and ease of use of a single plugin. Here’s a comprehensive look at who would benefit from using it and an overall recommendation.
User-Friendly Interface
One of the standout features of the UJAM Finisher is its super-simplified interface. This makes it ideal for musicians, producers, sound designers, and even podcasters who want to focus on their music without getting bogged down in intricate effect chains. The interface is easy to use, with just a few essential controls, allowing users to quickly browse through ready-made Modes and presets to find the perfect sound.
Extensive Effects Collection
The Finisher series includes a variety of plugins, each focusing on different fields of processing. For example, Finisher Retro offers vintage tones, Finisher Fluxx provides creative sonic shaping, Finisher Voodoo is geared towards guitar sounds, Finisher Neo focuses on futuristic sound design, and Finisher Micro offers a cross-section of UJAM’s multi-FX chains. This diverse range ensures that users can achieve a wide spectrum of sounds, from subtle and tasteful to aggressive and over-the-top.
High-Quality Sound
The sound quality of the UJAM Finisher plugins is consistently praised as excellent. Whether you’re degrading, distorting, or modulating your source sound, the plugins deliver high-quality results that can make individual tracks and sections of a song stand out. Users have reported that the sound quality is as good as the very best in the industry.
Time-Saving and Inspiring
The Finisher plugins are designed to be inspiring and time-saving. With 50 Modes and 130 presets in Finisher Neo, for instance, users can quickly find and tweak the desired sound without spending hours adjusting complex processor chains. This makes it an invaluable tool for those who need to work efficiently and creatively.
Who Would Benefit Most
- Musicians and Producers: Those looking to add unique and inspiring effects to their tracks without the hassle of setting up multiple effect chains.
- Sound Designers: Professionals who need a quick and intuitive way to experiment with various sound designs.
- Podcasters: Individuals who want to enhance their audio tracks with professional-grade effects without technical expertise.
- Composers: Anyone working on music for films, EDM, jazz, or any genre that requires creative and versatile sound design.
Overall Recommendation
The UJAM Finisher series is highly recommended for its ease of use, extensive collection of pre-made effects chains, and high-quality sound. While it may lack the tweakability that some advanced users might prefer, it is an excellent choice for those who value simplicity and instant inspiration. The plugins are available individually or as a bundle, making it accessible to a wide range of users. With its user-friendly interface and vast creative possibilities, the UJAM Finisher is an excellent addition to any music production toolkit.