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Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter

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Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter

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$2,999.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (1)

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated May 28, 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 (1)

$2,999.00

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5.0 (1)

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5.0 (8)

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Average Price: $2,999

High-end/Boutique

$100

$501+

Price Tier

In the Effects Processors category, Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter 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 "Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter is a cornerstone of studio recording gear, revered for its unparalleled ability to shape dynamics with precision and character. Introduced in 1967 by audio pioneer Bill Putnam, this legendary limiter has been a staple on countless iconic records ranging from rock legends to pop superstars. The Class A output stage, complete with custom overwound transformers, ensures that every signal processed through the 1176LN emerges with a sweetly musical tone.

What sets the 1176LN apart is its ultra-fast attack time, as low as 20 microseconds, which allows it to handle a diverse array of audio applications with ease. Whether you're looking to give your bass a commanding presence or add a definitive punch to your snare drums, the 1176LN delivers with finesse. Its push-button-selectable ratios, including the notorious "Nuke Mode," offer a dynamic range control that transforms your audio into a vibrant, textured masterpiece.

Crafted meticulously to original specifications in Scotts Valley, California, the 1176LN is handwired with precision, ensuring that it remains true to the sonic character that has made it a timeless classic. Whether you're seeking subtle compression or a more aggressive sonic footprint, this peak limiter stands ready to elevate your studio's capabilities.

Key Features:

Classic FET compressor/limiter design
Custom Class A output transformers
Ultra-fast attack time as low as 20 microseconds
Push-button-selectable compression ratios (4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1)
Nuke Mode for extreme audio dynamics
Faithful to original design and sound
Handcrafted in UA's Scotts Valley, California labs

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 is the primary function of the Urei Universal Audio 1176LN 'Blackface' Peak Limiter?: The Urei 1176LN is a dynamic range compressor known for its ultra-fast attack times, making it ideal for controlling peaks and adding character to vocals, drums, and other instruments.
How does the 1176LN 'Blackface' differ from other compressors?: The 1176LN 'Blackface' features FET technology, offering a unique sound character with extremely fast attack and release times, which is different from optical or tube compressors.
What are the main controls available on the 1176LN 'Blackface'?: The 1176LN 'Blackface' includes controls for input, output, attack, release, and selectable ratio buttons (4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1) for flexible dynamic shaping.
Is the Urei 1176LN 'Blackface' suitable for vocals and drums?: Yes, the 1176LN 'Blackface' is highly regarded for its ability to add punch and presence to vocals and drums, thanks to its fast attack and release capabilities.
What type of connections does the 1176LN 'Blackface' offer?: The 1176LN 'Blackface' provides one XLR input and one XLR output, ensuring professional-grade connectivity for studio environments.

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Owner Insights

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

Use cases and applications

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The 1176 is frequently used for parallel compression on drums, with settings often maxing gain reduction for a powerful, snappy sound.
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The blue stripe 1176 is favored for melodic vocals and RnB, pushing vocals more forward, while the blackface is used more broadly across different instruments.
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The blue stripe 1176 is described as feeling faster, making it ideal for kick and snare applications, while the blackface is preferred for toms and other vocals.
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Fast compression works effectively on strings, but excessive use can strip the emotional dynamics inherent to the instrument's natural expression.
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On bowed instruments like violins, slow attack and moderate release times create a gentle leveling effect without diminishing natural dynamics.
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Features and functionality

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Common settings include the "Dr Pepper" setting with attack at 10 o'clock, release at 2 o'clock, and a 4:1 ratio for an effective compression on various instruments.
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The Studio FET setting in Logic emulates the UREI/UA 1176 Rev E, providing a Blackface 1176 experience within the DAW environment.
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Comparisons

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The Warm Audio WA76 is noted to add a "tight shimmer" to acoustic guitars, but some users prefer the Audioscape 1176 for its superior quality.
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The Rev A (blue stripe) 1176 is noted for sounding more saturated with a pronounced midrange boost, making it preferable for Rock and Metal genres over the cleaner Rev D (black).
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The Rev F is highlighted for quick peak limiting without grime, suitable for rap vocals, contrasting with the Rev A’s grit and midrange boost.
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Logic's Vintage FET and Studio FET settings offer distinct emulations of the 1176 Rev H (Silverface) and Rev E (Blackface) models, catering to different sound preferences.
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Software and compatibility

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UAD 1176 plugins are often praised for their accuracy compared to hardware, with the Purple MC77 plugin being favored for its clean and versatile sound.
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User experience

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Real 1176 units are often preferred for their unique character, with some users noting significant differences in sound between hardware and software emulations.
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A user reported that after using six real bluestripes, they found subtle differences in each, with the Hairball Rev A kit effectively replicating the desired sound.
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Mods and upgrades

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The Hairball 1176 kit, priced at $699, is recommended for DIY enthusiasts seeking a real Urei 1176 experience, with the added satisfaction of building it.
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