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Universal Audio 1176LN is a FET limiting amplifier in a 2U 19 in. rack chassis, offering 50 dB of gain, an attack range of 20 to 800 microseconds and a release from 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds. Frequency response runs 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 1 dB, with less than 0.5% THD under limiting and better than 70 dB signal to noise at +10 dBm.
The fastest attack in the rack, and the reason drums sound like that.
The 1176 was the first true peak limiter to use a field effect transistor as the gain element, and its attack time is the specification everyone quotes: 20 microseconds at the fastest setting. That is fast enough to catch the initial transient of a snare rather than letting it through, which is why it behaves differently from anything optical or tube-based.
Ratio is selected by four buttons, and the unit is famous for what happens when they are pressed together. Engaging all four at once puts the detector into a state its designer did not specify, producing an aggressive, distorted compression with a characteristic curve. It has been used deliberately on drums and vocals for decades.
Attack and release are both continuously variable and, counterintuitively, both are fastest when turned fully clockwise. Release runs from 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds. Two units link for stereo through the 1176 SA Network accessory.
Universal Audio still hand-builds this line in California to the original circuit designs rather than licensing the name out. The company was founded in 1958 by M.T. "Bill" Putnam, who designed the 1176 and the 610, and was revived in 1999 by his sons with the original schematics and, in several cases, the original test gear.
At a Glance
| Type | FET limiting amplifier |
| Gain element | Field effect transistor |
| Gain | 50 dB |
| Attack | 20 to 800 microseconds |
| Release | 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz, plus or minus 1 dB |
| Stereo | Via 1176 SA Network accessory |
| Format | 19 in. rack, 2U |
What Is All-Buttons Mode?
Pressing all four ratio buttons at once puts the detector circuit into a state outside the intended design, producing aggressive compression with a distinctive distorted curve and a lagging attack. It is a documented technique rather than a fault, used deliberately on drum room mics and rock vocals since the 1970s.
Who Is the 1176LN For?
Studios that need transient control rather than levelling: drums, bass, aggressive vocals and anything where the attack of a note matters. It is the counterpart to an LA-2A rather than a replacement, and most rooms that own one own both.
How Do I Link Two for Stereo?
Through the 1176 SA Network accessory, which is a separate stereo adapter unit. Call 844-687-4208 to add one to an order for a matched pair.
Why Are the Attack and Release Controls Backwards?
They are not backwards, but they are counterintuitive. On the 1176 both attack and release are fastest fully clockwise, which is the opposite of most compressors. Attack ranges from 20 to 800 microseconds and release from 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds.
Connections
| External connections | Jones Barrier terminals and XLR connectors |
| Input impedance | 600 ohms, bridges-T control, floating |
| Output load impedance | 600 ohms, floating, damping factor 20 |
| Stereo interconnection | Via 1176 SA Network accessory |
Specifications
| Frequency response | Plus or minus 1 dB, 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Gain | 50 dB |
| Distortion | Less than 0.5% THD from 50 Hz to 15 kHz with limiting |
| Signal to noise | Greater than 70 dB at +10 dBm |
| Attack time | 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds |
| Release time | 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds |
| Meter | dB gain reduction and dB output |
| Power requirements | 120/240 V |
| Maximum operating temperature | 160 degrees F |
| Dimensions | 19 in. rackmount chassis, 2U |
| Weight | 11 lb. unboxed |
Why Universal Audio?
Universal Audio was founded in 1958 by M.T. "Bill" Putnam, the engineer who built the first recording console with integrated equalization and effects sends, and who designed the 1176 and the 610. The company was revived in 1999 by his sons and now does two things: it still hand-builds analog hardware in California, and it licenses and models the classics from Neve, API, Manley, SSL, Lexicon, Studer, Ampex and others rather than emulating them without authorization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a genuine Universal Audio product?
Yes. Victory is a veteran owned dealer in Miami and units ship new in original packaging with full manufacturer support, including software registration rights.
Is this covered by warranty?
Yes. This unit carries the full Universal Audio manufacturer warranty, registered to you as the original purchaser. Call 844-687-4208 for the current term.
How fast is the attack?
20 microseconds at the fastest setting, ranging out to 800 microseconds. That speed is the reason the 1176 is used on transient material.
Do I need the 1176 SA for stereo?
Yes. Two 1176LN units link for stereo operation through the 1176 SA Network accessory, sold separately.
How much rack space does it take?
2U in a standard 19 in. rack, and it weighs 11 lb.
Why Buy From Victory Musical Instruments?
Victory Musical Instruments is a pro audio and musical instrument dealer in Miami, Florida. We support churches, schools, studios and working musicians across South Florida and ship nationwide. Every unit is new in the original factory packaging with full manufacturer support. Call 844-687-4208 to check lead time, request a quote, or arrange local pickup.