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Universal Audio 1176LN

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$40.00 to $2,999.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (26)

1 Critic Review

2 Reviews

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Page last updated Jul 06, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated July 6, 2026.

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5.0 (14)

$2,999.00

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5.0 (1)

$2,999.00

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5.0 (2)

$2,999.00 New

$2,769.90 Used (Like New)

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5.0 (12)

$40.00 17 available New

$1,700.00 11 available Used

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5.0 (1)

$2,999.00

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5.0 (1)

$2,999.00

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5.0 (8)

$2,999.00

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Average Price: $2,467

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, Universal Audio 1176LN is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Universal Audio 1176LN". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Universal Audio 1176LN Limiting Amplifier is a faithful reissue of the iconic solid-state compressor that revolutionized the music industry in 1967. Renowned for its ultra-fast attack and release times, this versatile limiting amplifier can deliver a broad range of compression effects, from subtle leveling to full-blown distortion.

Handcrafted in Scotts Valley, California, each 1176LN is meticulously assembled point-to-point, replicating Bill Putnam Sr.'s original design. This commitment to authenticity ensures that the 1176LN captures the heart and soul of the original unit that helped shape the sound of rock and roll legends like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Michael Jackson.

A true chameleon, the 1176LN can transform any signal it processes. Bass guitars attain immense presence, weak snares gain a distinct crack, and vocals are propelled to the front of the mix. Thanks to its Class A output transformer, renowned for its musicality, the 1176LN can morph even the most mundane tracks into sonic gems.

While modern limiters offer digital emulations and updated components, none can match the musicality and versatility of the 1176LN. Universal Audio's reissue captures all the nuances of Putnam's pioneering design, making the 1176LN a must-have for any studio.

Key Features:

Iconic solid-state compressor/limiter, reissued to original specifications
Ultra-fast attack time as low as 20 microseconds
Broad range of compression effects, from subtle leveling to all-out distortion
Class A output transformer known for its musicality
Handcrafted in Scotts Valley, California
Ideal for shaping dynamics on guitars, bass, drums, vocals, and more
Custom Class A output transformers
Record your tracks through legendary vintage-spec solid-state circuitry
Faithful to the original in design, manufacturing, and performance
Impart vibe, color, and character to signals without using compression

Product specs

Type	FET
Number of Channels	1
Controls	Input, Output, Attack, Release, Ratio (Buttons)
Ratio	4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
Frequency Response	20Hz-20kHz
Inputs	1 x XLR
Outputs	1 x XLR
Rack Spaces	2U
Height	3.5"
Depth	12.25"
Width	19"
Weight	11 lbs.

FAQs

What makes the Universal Audio 1176LN unique compared to other compressors?: The Universal Audio 1176LN is renowned for its lightning-fast attack and release times, offering a wide range of compression sounds from subtle to aggressive. Its Class A output stage and iconic FET design contribute to its distinct tonal character, making it a staple in professional studios.
Is the Universal Audio 1176LN suitable for both vocals and instruments?: Yes, the 1176LN is versatile and widely used for both vocal and instrumental tracks. Its fast attack and release times make it ideal for controlling dynamic range while adding a classic sonic signature to various audio sources.
What type of connectivity does the Universal Audio 1176LN offer?: The Universal Audio 1176LN features XLR inputs and outputs, providing professional-grade connectivity for studio setups. This ensures high-quality signal transfer and compatibility with other studio gear.
Can the Universal Audio 1176LN be used in a stereo setup?: The 1176LN itself is a mono unit; however, for stereo applications, two units can be linked together. Alternatively, the Universal Audio 2-1176 model offers a true stereo version of this classic compressor.
What are the compression ratio options available on the Universal Audio 1176LN?: The 1176LN offers four selectable compression ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, and 20:1. These options provide flexibility for achieving different levels of dynamic control, from gentle compression to more aggressive limiting.

Videos

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Universal Audio

Chaining the 1176LN and LA2A compressors for maximum control.

Universal Audio

5 Minute UAD Tips: 1176 Classic Limiter Plug-In Collection

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Urei 1176 Compressor In Action

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Universal Audio

History of the Universal Audio 1176 Compressor/Limiter with CEO Bill Putnam Jr.

Musician's Friend

Universal Audio 1176LN Compressor Demo

BIG EGO

VK Shootout: Urei/Universal Audio 1176 Compressor vs. Reproductions, Plug-Ins, and Pedals

Vintage King

Vintage Urei 1176LN Peak Limiter | VintageKing.com

Vintage King

Universal Audio 1176LN

SamAshdotcom

Universal Audio 1176LN VS. UAD UA 1176ln REV E

Signature Sound Studios

Reviews

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PROS

Essential for FET compression, especially on voice tracks and snares
Clean, fast compression with unique tone and character
Adds rich tone and weight to signals, enhancing recordings
Durable with robust metal enclosure and high-quality components
Faithful recreation of the original with classic details
Versatile, works great on a variety of sources like guitars and vocals
Adds polished and finished sound to recordings
Can add aggressive coloration when needed, making instruments stand out

CONS

One unit had quality control issues with gain reduction and output levels
Not all units consistently replicate the sound of original UREI 1176s
Modification and repair can be costly if issues arise
Potentially too aggressive, might not suit all tracks or styles

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Universal Audio 1176LN.

Features and functionality

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The UAFX 1176 pedal's parallel mode uses the output knob as a dry/wet mix control, contrary to initial perceptions of it being a fixed 50/50 blend.
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The promotional UA 1176 plugin lacks output saturation and headroom controls, differing from the full version's capabilities.
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Pulsar's Smasher plugin uniquely offers individual saturation controls for input and output, a feature rare among 1176 emulations, enhancing its versatility.
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The Purple Audio MC77 plugin offers a distinctive inversely linked input/output knob and a unique distortion character, making it a standout among 1176 emulations.
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Software and compatibility

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Renaming the UA Connect app might prevent automatic updates, offering a potential workaround for background CPU usage.
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Users report issues with UA Connect on older macOS versions like Mojave, suggesting compatibility challenges.
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Use cases and applications

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Despite being a simplified version, the free 1176 plugin is still considered a valuable compressor for those without existing alternatives.
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The UA 1176 pedal is praised for its sustain setting, particularly beneficial for slide guitar playing.
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Comparisons

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T-Racks Black 76 behaves differently from UA's 1176 even with identical settings, highlighting distinct tonal characteristics.
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The Empress MkII is highly recommended for its versatility, although it may lack the specific distortion characteristic of the UAFX 1176.
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The UAD 1176 collection includes the exclusive 1176 Rev. AE model, offering a unique 2:1 ratio and a "slow" attack setting, highly praised for vocal processing.
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The Cali76 Stacked is noted for achieving the "Black Dog" tone through carefully researched settings, offering a more analog experience compared to the digital UAFX 1176.
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Softube FET MKII is frequently cited as a top-tier compressor, appreciated for its analog sound and noted for being potentially more aggressive than UAD models.
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Arturia’s 1176 emulation is critiqued for a consistent "veil" across their plugins, though praised for its cohesive workflow with advanced options like M/S processing.
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The Analog Obsession FETish plugin is noted for superior control and saturation over UAD models, providing a snappy 1176 sound highly favored for aggressive tones.
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User experience

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Some owners report the Cali76 can be noisy, especially with single-coil pickups like those from a Telecaster or Strat, whereas Keeley compressors offer quieter performance.
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Despite newer emulations, some users still rely on the CLA76 for its familiar compression sound, often adding saturation plugins like Decapitator for enhanced tonal character.
Source

Critic Reviews

Review of Universal Audio 1176LN enhanced recreation of the Urei 1176N, my absolute favourite desert-island compressor/limiter - recording equipment review

recordproduction.com

Universal Audio's 1176LN reissue delivers a faithful recreation of the classic Urei 1176LN, capturing the vintage charm with meticulous attention to detail. The sound character is impressive, maintaining the unique FET-driven tonality that enhances vocals beautifully. While the unit operates similarly to the originals, it offers slightly more clarity, though some may find its distortion character less warm during overdrive. Despite a few modern safety quirks and a pricier tag compared to the Purple Audio rival, the 1176LN stands out for its authenticity and prestige as an iconic studio staple. If you seek a true-to-the-original experience with the allure of a legendary compressor, this is the box to have.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 26 Ratings

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bobguido7

253

almost 9 years ago

Urei 1176LN Limiting Amplifier

"This is the box that I use to add agressive coloration to sources. It can be just the right thing on some sources like bass guitar to make it jump out of the mix. It can also really destroy the integrity and beauty of an instrument. Don't be running every single track through this baby unless you're making punk rock!"