Universal Audio 1176LN – Classic Limiting Amplifier

OVERVIEW

The original Universal Audio 1176LN designed by Bill Putnam was a major breakthrough in limiter technology – the first true peak limiter with all transistor circuitry offering superior performance and a signature sound. Evolved from the popular Universal Audio 175 and 176 vacuum tube limiters, the 1176LN retained the proven qualities of these industry leaders, and set the standard for all limiters to follow.

Today, the 1176LN is new again. While it certainly would have been possible – and much simpler – to modernize and “improve” the 1176LN, every effort was made to remain faithful to Putnam’s design and intentions. Carefully trained staff hand-wire and test each unit until it meets our uncompromising standards. This Universal Audio Classic version of the 1176LN captures all the nuance of the original through obsessive attention to detail and delivers that trademark sound. Demand the original. Accept no copies.

The 1176SA™ calibrates two mono 1176s for stereo operation. The 1176SA was first offered for the original 1176, but has become increasingly difficult to find for use with either vintage or new 1176s. Due to customer demand for stereo operation, we carefully recreated the original adapter. The 1176SA is a small device (4.25″ x2.5″ x1.75″) which rests behind the 1176s. The 1176SA sports a full metal enclosure for proper shielding, gold-plated connectors. A 2-year battery is included. The 1176SA is compatible with both new and vintage models.

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

Legendary Studio Staple:

The Universal Audio 1176LN is one of the most iconic compressors in recording history, famous for its ultra-fast attack, distinct musical character, and ability to add weight and excitement to vocals, drums, guitars, and more.

Handcrafted to Original Specs:

Every 1176LN unit is hand-wired and tested by Universal Audio’s expert team, ensuring it faithfully captures the exact performance and sound of Bill Putnam’s original 1967 design without compromise.

All-Transistor Peak Limiting:

The 1176LN revolutionized dynamics control with its pure Class A, all-transistor circuitry, delivering lightning-fast response and a punchy, colorful tone that no plugin or emulation can truly match.

Built for Stereo Operation:

For engineers looking for stereo compression, the optional 1176SA Calibration Adapter allows two 1176LN units to be linked for true stereo tracking and mix-bus magic.

FEATURES

• Legendary FET-based compression with ultra-fast attack times

• Hand-built and hand-wired in the USA to original Bill Putnam specifications

• Pure Class A, all-transistor circuitry

• Signature input and output transformers for classic tone

• True hardware peak limiting, not just compression

• Optional 1176SA Stereo Adapter available for stereo linking

• Rugged metal chassis designed for studio durability

• Carefully matched components for consistent performance

• Classic “All-Button” mode for aggressive compression effects

TECHNICAL SPECS

Type: FET-based limiting amplifier

Inputs: Balanced XLR

Outputs: Balanced XLR

Attack Time: 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds

Release Time: 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds

Ratio: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1 (plus “All-Button” mode)

Frequency Response: ±1 dB 20 Hz to 20 kHz

Noise: Less than -70 dB at +10 dBm output

Dimensions: 19″ rackmount, 2U height

Weight: 11 lbs (5 kg)