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Average Price: $2,999
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$501+
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Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. E Limiting Amplifier Stereo Pair". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Urei Universal Audio 1176LN Rev. E Limiting Amplifier Stereo Pair is not merely a piece of gear; it's a legendary tool that has etched its mark on countless classic records. Designed by the visionary Bill Putnam Sr. in 1967, this iconic compressor transformed the landscape of dynamics processing forever. Its ultra-fast attack times and versatile compression effects have made it a staple in studios worldwide, capturing the essence of artists like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Michael Jackson.
This reissue stays true to the original design, handwired in California with meticulous attention to detail. Each component is carefully selected to ensure the authentic character and performance that made the 1176LN a studio favorite. Its Class A output stage, combined with a custom-designed transformer, delivers a warm, musical sound that enhances any audio signal. Whether you're looking to give your bass a commanding presence, add a definitive crack to your snare, or push vocals to the forefront, the 1176LN is your secret weapon.
The 1176LN offers push-button selectable ratios for compression, ranging from gentle leveling to extreme limiting and even includes the famed "Nuke Mode" for explosive, creative effects. This stereo pair is perfect for those seeking to add a touch of history and unparalleled quality to their recordings.
Key Features:
- Faithful reissue of the classic 1176LN, modeled after the D and E revisions
- Handwired in Scotts Valley, California, ensuring authenticity and quality
- Ultra-fast attack times, as low as 20 microseconds
- Class A line level output amplifier with a custom-built transformer
- Push-button selectable compression ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
- Famous "Nuke Mode" for dramatic audio effects
- Ideal for a wide range of signals: bass, drums, vocals, and more
- Adds vibe, color, and character to any audio source
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. E Limiting Amplifier stand out from other compressors?
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The 1176LN Rev. E is renowned for its ultra-fast attack times and FET gain reduction, providing a unique sonic character. It faithfully replicates the classic 1176LN blackface, D and E revisions, offering a distinctive, warm compression that is highly sought after in professional studios.
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How does the stereo interconnect operation work on the 1176LN Rev. E?
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The stereo interconnect operation allows you to link two units for stereo processing, ensuring consistent compression across both channels. This feature is particularly beneficial for mastering and stereo mixing applications, maintaining the integrity of your stereo image.
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What are the available compression ratios on the 1176LN Rev. E, and how do they affect the sound?
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The 1176LN Rev. E offers compression ratios of 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, and 20:1. Lower ratios provide subtle dynamic control, while higher ratios deliver more aggressive compression, making it versatile for various applications from gentle leveling to heavy limiting.
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Can the 1176LN Rev. E be used for both tracking and mixing?
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Yes, the 1176LN Rev. E is suitable for both tracking and mixing. Its fast attack and release times make it ideal for controlling dynamics during recording, while its unique tonal characteristics enhance the mix, adding warmth and presence to vocals, drums, and other instruments.
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What type of input and output connections does the 1176LN Rev. E feature?
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The 1176LN Rev. E is equipped with XLR input and output connections, ensuring high-quality, balanced signal transmission. This setup is standard for professional studio equipment, allowing seamless integration into existing studio setups.
Videos
Doctor Mix
Urei 1176 Compressor In Action
Reviews
PROS
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Delivers unique sound quality unmatched by other compressors
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Perfect for enhancing vocal tracks with clarity and presence
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Versatile, fits seamlessly on any instrument or vocal track
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Ideal for high-impact genres like hip-hop and R&B
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Handles intense compression smoothly without distortion
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Enhances guitar tracks, making them shine in mixes
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Highly regarded in professional studios for its reliability
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Encourages repeat business due to its superior sound quality
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Complements well with other high-end pre-amps and audio gear
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. E Limiting Amplifier Stereo Pair.
Features and functionality
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The 1176 excels in achieving transparency even with significant gain reduction, maintaining clarity on vocals even beyond -10dB.
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Engaging any two ratio buttons on the 1176 combines their ratios (e.g., 4:1 and 8:1 form a 12:1 ratio), creating unique compression settings.
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The input stage of the 1176 adds subtle character, making it common to run signals through it without compression for tonal coloration.
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The 1176's feedback compression dynamically adjusts the threshold, offering a unique, responsive compression that differs from standard feed-forward designs.
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The "attack at 1, release at 7" setting is a popular choice for achieving a specific sound, especially when not relying on the VU meter for accuracy.
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The "all-buttons" mode on the 1176 creates a unique parallel compression effect, particularly appreciated for drum processing.
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Use cases and applications
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The 1176's fast attack and release settings can be precisely timed with a vocal performance's cadence, allowing for transparent integration into a mix.
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The 1176 is praised for its effectiveness on bass guitar, enhancing sound without squashing attack due to its fast response.
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The 1176 is often paired with a dbx160 in parallel compression setups, providing both a "smash" and "grab" effect.
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The 1176 is highly effective on vocals and snares, with a slow attack and fast release enhancing drum transients for a brighter, punchier sound.
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The 1176 is often used for parallel compression on drums, particularly with all buttons engaged for a distinctive effect.
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Comparisons
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The Klark Teknik 1176 clone is noted for being indistinguishable from more expensive UA models in blind tests, suggesting a cost-effective alternative.
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Users find that the Black Lion Seventeen offers features like a wet/dry mix knob and sidechain filter, offering more versatility than the original 1176.
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The Arturia FET76 is favored for versatility and liveliness, while the CLA76 is noted for its low CPU usage.
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User experience
Other
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The 1176's enduring popularity is partly due to its familiarity and the distinctive sound it imparts, which has become a staple in recorded music history.
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