I use my UAD2plugs exclusively for everything needed to get the tracks technically right for further mixing and adding ambience in Scope.
So I choose for compressors, limiters, 2 channelstrips, equalizers, de-esser, maximizer, plus EMT Plate and Verb for flexibility. Vitalizer and Transient designer would have fit here but I have them already in Scope. Everything completed with Waves L2 and especially WavesTune Light for emergencies and worse.
Mixing and ambience in Scope.
This setup works fast, as you know what plugs to open
where while knowing the routines.
So, UAD2 is part of my system.
Me, I wouldn't want missing it.
I just hate it to to have to check the complete list of all UAD plugins instead of only my authorised ones.
Wrong way of seduction
UAD wants to sell you hardware/Thunderbolt, so the 'old' cards are just former generation now.
But I doubt if the price of a used UAD2 is as low as you suggest.
Selling specialised stuff like UAD cards can take some time, a few months won't make me desperate.
In case of naked mony is involved then all arguments fail
