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Average Price: $4,071
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$100
$501+
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Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. D Limiting Amplifier". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. D Limiting Amplifier is a cornerstone in the world of studio recording gear, celebrated for its lightning-fast attack times and iconic sound. Originally conceived by Bill Putnam in 1967 as the first true peak limiter with all-transistor circuitry, this renowned device has been a signature component in the sonic toolkit of legendary artists like the Stones and Zeppelin. The 1176LN Rev. D retains the authentic character of its predecessors with meticulous hand-wiring and premium components, ensuring that every note captured is imbued with the warmth and character that defines the classic Universal Audio sound.
This compelling piece of audio technology stands out for its versatility, whether imparting a commanding presence to vocals or adding punch to drum tracks. The 1176LN’s push-button-selectable ratios and unique "Nuke Mode" offer a wide array of dynamic control options, making it a favorite among producers who appreciate both subtle compression and more aggressive sonic shaping. The unit's Class A output stage, complete with a custom overwound transformer, ensures that whatever you run through it sounds vibrant and alive. Ideal for professional studios and home recording setups alike, the 1176LN is more than just a signal processor—it's an invitation to explore new dimensions of your music.
Key Features:
- Faithful recreation of the original 1176LN Blackface model, Rev. D and E
- Ultra-fast attack time as low as 20 microseconds
- Class A line level output amplifier
- Custom-built, Putnam-designed output transformer
- Push-button-selectable compression ratios (4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1) and Nuke Mode
- Handcrafted in Scotts Valley, California
- Ideal for dynamic shaping on vocals, guitars, bass, drums, and more
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
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What makes the Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. D Limiting Amplifier unique?
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The 1176LN is renowned for its ultra-fast attack time of 20 microseconds, making it ideal for managing transients in audio. Its all-transistor circuitry provides superior performance across various program materials, making it a staple in professional studios.
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Is the Universal Audio 1176LN suitable for vocals?
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Yes, the 1176LN is excellent for vocals, especially rap or aggressive styles, due to its fast compression capabilities. It adds presence and clarity, making it a preferred choice for vocal tracks.
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What are the main controls on the Universal Audio 1176LN?
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The 1176LN features controls for Input, Output, Attack, Release, and Ratio, allowing precise dynamics shaping. Its ratio settings range from 4:1 to 20:1, providing flexibility for various compression needs.
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How does the Universal Audio 1176LN connect to other studio equipment?
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The 1176LN uses XLR inputs and outputs, ensuring high-quality signal transmission and compatibility with professional studio setups.
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Can the Universal Audio 1176LN be used for instruments other than vocals?
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Absolutely, the 1176LN is versatile and can be used for various instruments, including drums and guitars, offering punchy and controlled dynamics.
Videos
Vintage King
VK Shootout: Urei/Universal Audio 1176 Compressor vs. Reproductions, Plug-Ins, and Pedals
Reviews
PROS
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Provides a distinct, unrivaled sound quality that enhances vocals and instruments
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Versatile use, ideal for vocals, guitars, and various studio applications
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Offers a unique vibe and feel not matched by other compressors
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Handles intense compression without loss of quality or introducing artifacts
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Highly regarded by professionals for producing professional-grade sound
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Considered a must-have tool in any serious recording studio
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. D Limiting Amplifier.
User experience
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Owners report that the 1176 can achieve transparency even when reducing more than -10dB on vocals, maintaining clarity without sacrificing sound quality.
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Owners of Hairball units note the Rev. A's trashier, brighter sound compared to the smoother, more predictable Rev. D, with specific applications for each.
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Value and pricing
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Klark Teknik 1176 clone offers budget-friendly access to multiple channels of compression, allowing users to stock up on units affordably.
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Use cases and applications
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Rev. D clones are popular for bass, vocals, and snare, while Rev. A is chosen for aggressive, bright applications like drum rooms.
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The 1176 is often used in combination with a dbx160 for parallel compression, with each unit handling different aspects of the drum sound.
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The "Dr Pepper" setting, with attack at 10 o'clock and release at 2 o'clock, is popular for vocals and drums, offering a punchy and dynamic sound.
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The "all-in mode" is specifically praised for parallel compression, offering a unique and aggressive sound that's particularly effective on drums.
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1176 compressors are favored for smashing room mics and bass guitars, providing aggressive compression that enhances the power and presence in mixes.
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Fastest release and slowest attack settings on an 1176 are favored for making snare drums sound like a "shotgun blast" in metal music.
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Features and functionality
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Hairball clones built with vintage components, especially transformers and transistors, are said to replicate the original's sound more accurately.
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Using an 1176 in series with an LA2A compressor helps create consistent vocal levels, with the 1176 handling transients and the LA2A providing leveling.
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Comparisons
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Audioscape 76A is favored over Warm Audio and Klark Teknik for offering a closer sonic match to vintage 1176s, with excellent customer service.
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Hairball Rev. D is frequently cited as the closest sounding clone to original Urei units, preferred in blind tests against other clones.
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Some users find the Lindell Audio 76 hardware compressor to have a "sauce" or character that many plugin emulations seem to lack.
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The Black Lion Seventeen is highlighted for its wet/dry mix knob and sidechain features, offering versatility beyond the original 1176 capabilities.
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The Warm Audio WA76 is often compared unfavorably to the UAD 1176, with some users finding it lacks the harmonic excitement and snappiness of the original.
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Owners often prefer the UAD 1176 emulation for its authenticity, with some saying it closely rivals the original hardware in tonal accuracy.
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Mods and upgrades
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Some modern 1176 clones include high-pass sidechain filters and wet/dry knobs, adding functionality not found in the original models.
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