Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (14)
$2,999.00
Guitar Center
5.0 (1)
$2,999.00
Amazon
5.0 (2)
$2,999.00 New
$2,769.90 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$9,000.00 2 available Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$2,999.00
B&H
5.0 (1)
$2,999.00
Vintage King
5.0 (8)
$2,999.00

Average Price: $3,856

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$501+

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Price History

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

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Description

The Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. C Limiting Amplifier is more than just a piece of studio gear; it's a cornerstone of audio history. Since its release in 1967, this legendary compressor has become a staple in professional studios around the world. Engineered by the pioneering Bill Putnam Sr., the 1176LN is renowned for its ultra-fast attack and release times, offering a wide range of compression effects from subtle leveling to powerful distortion.

What sets the 1176LN apart is its lightning-fast attack time of 20 microseconds, making it one of the most responsive dynamics processors available. The unit's Class A output transformers provide a warm, musical quality to any signal, whether it's bringing a bass to life or giving vocals a prominent place in the mix.

Handcrafted to original specifications in Scotts Valley, California, each 1176LN is a tribute to its illustrious heritage, faithfully capturing the sonic character that has graced iconic tracks by The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, and Michael Jackson. With push-button-selectable ratios and the notorious "Nuke Mode" for explosive dynamics, this compressor is a must-have for any serious recording engineer. Whether you're seeking classic warmth or modern punch, the 1176LN delivers with unmatched authenticity and style.

Key Features:

  • Handwired in California to original specifications
  • Ultra-fast attack time as low as 20 microseconds
  • Class A output stage with custom-designed output transformers
  • Push-button-selectable compression ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
  • Unique "Nuke Mode" for dramatic sonic effects
  • Ideal for bass, snare, vocals, and more
  • Faithful recreation of the original 1176LN design
  • Adds character and warmth to any signal without compression

Product specs

Type FET Compressor/Limiter
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 Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. C Limiting Amplifier unique compared to other compressors?

The 1176LN Rev. C is renowned for its ultra-fast attack time and iconic FET gain reduction, providing a distinct character and punchy dynamic control that is highly sought after in studio recordings.

How does the 1176LN Rev. C handle stereo interconnect operation?

The 1176LN Rev. C supports stereo interconnect operation, allowing it to be used in tandem with another unit for stereo processing, making it versatile for both mono and stereo applications.

What is the typical use case for the 1176LN Rev. C Limiting Amplifier?

The 1176LN Rev. C is typically used for vocal and instrument compression in professional recording studios, favored for its ability to add warmth and presence to audio tracks.

How does the attack and release time of the 1176LN Rev. C affect its performance?

With an ultrafast attack time of 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds and adjustable release time from 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds, the 1176LN Rev. C offers precise control over dynamics, making it ideal for shaping transient responses.

What are the available compression ratios on the 1176LN Rev. C?

The 1176LN Rev. C offers selectable compression ratios of 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, and 20:1, providing flexibility for various compression needs, from gentle leveling to aggressive limiting.

Vintage King

Vintage King

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

Video thumbnail for VK Shootout: Urei/Universal Audio 1176 Compressor vs. Reproductions, Plug-Ins, and Pedals by Vintage King

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

Vintage King

Vintage King

Reviews

PROS

  • Legendary sound quality unmatched by other compressors

  • Adds bite and presence to vocals and instruments

  • Versatile; excels on vocals, guitars, and more

  • Handles extreme compression without distortion

  • Perfect for both hip-hop and R&B vocal tracks

  • Increases studio's appeal and customer return rate

  • Essential for achieving professional-sounding vocals

  • Makes instruments shine and fit perfectly in a mix

  • High-quality build ensuring durability and reliability

CONS

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The 1176LN Rev. C can achieve impressive transient enhancement on drums with a slow attack and fast release, making snare and kick drums brighter and punchier.

    Source
  • Users value the "all-in mode" for parallel compression, enhancing snare and drum dynamics significantly.

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  • The 1176's saturation primarily comes from gain reduction, while the LA-2A's saturation is influenced by makeup gain, affecting their tonal contributions.

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  • The distortion primarily occurs in the output stage; users report it's challenging to overload the output unless compression is bypassed.

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  • The internal preamp is protected by the FET attenuator, reducing the likelihood of input overload during compression.

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Comparisons

  • The 1176LN is often paired with other compressors like the UAD dbx160 for a "smash and grab" effect, combining different dynamic responses.

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  • Some users prefer a clean compressor like SSL channel strip in fast mode over the 1176-LA2A combo for a less saturated sound on certain vocal tracks.

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Use cases and applications

  • It's noted for its suitability on vocals, snares, and bass, providing both dynamic control and characteristic saturation.

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  • Setting the 1176 to fast attack and release helps tame peaks before feeding into an LA-2A for smoother vocal leveling, ideal for dynamic vocal performances.

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  • For rock vocals, an LA3A following an 1176 helps maintain vocal presence while using the 1176 for saturation without audible pumping effects.

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  • Fast attack and release settings are noted to induce distortion, which some users prefer for added grit on guitars and hi-hats.

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  • The 1176 can act as a saturator when compression is disengaged, leveraging the input stage for harmonic distortion.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Modern clones like the Black Lion Seventeen offer additional features such as a wet/dry mix knob and high-pass side chain, enhancing flexibility beyond the original.

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User experience

  • Owners report a unique "sauce" or character in the 1176's compression that many digital plugins fail to replicate.

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Build quality

  • Differences in sound and reaction are noted among different units, even within the same model, due to component variations.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Implementing a de-esser before the 1176 can prevent sibilant spikes from skewing the compressor's threshold, resulting in a cleaner compression process.

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