Alternatives to UAD?

Lately, I have been downloading some tutorials that contain plugins that are simply way to expensive for the novice to intermediate user. For example, I downloaded the latest Deep House and Trance tracks and it requires UAD. The problem is that UAD is expensive.br
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I am sure UAD a quality plugin but it would be great if we can have tutorials that make use of more common plugins but still maintain the quality sound effects.br
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Having said that, is there al alternative to the UAD plugins?

UAD Alternatives Spreadsheetbr
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Price wise the IK Multimedia stuff seems the cheapest. Althoug the UAD stuff will sound a bit better.br
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Great Sound on Sound Article about Classic Compressors.