Universal Audio 1176LN Solid State Limiting Amplifier
Videos (3)
View AllUniversal Audio's History
View Video
6176 Vintage Channel Strip
Description
The Universal Audio 1176LN Solid State Limiting Amplifier is a reissue of the iconic compressor that defined the sound of rock and roll. First released in 1967, the 1176LN was the breakthrough limiter that launched the modern era of dynamics processing. Engineered by Bill Putnam Sr. the father of modern recording himself—the 1176LN delivers ultrafast attack and release times paired with a versatile range of compression effects, from subtle leveling to all-out distortion.
Handwired in California to Original Specifications
Today, Universal Audio crafts the 1176LN in Scotts Valley, California, handwiring each unit point to point according to Putnam's original design. Meticulously selected components ensure authenticity, while obsessive testing guarantees performance. The result is a limiter with unparalleled heritage and tone—the secret weapon behind the sound of Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones and Michael Jackson.
A Beast for Bass, Snare, Vocals and More
The 1176LN works wonders on any signal you feed it. Bass guitars gain gargantuan presence. Lackluster snares acquire a definitive crack. Vocals are grabbed and thrust to the front of your mix. With a broad range of sonic possibilities and an Class A output transformer renowned for its musicality, the 1176LN is a must-have for any studio.
Demand the Original
While modern limiters offer digital emulations and updated components, none match the 1176LN. Universal Audio's obsessive reissue captures every nuance of Putnam's pioneering design. Accept no imitations—the 1176LN is the limiter that shaped rock and roll.
Features
- True to the original in design, manufacture, and performance
- Modeled after 1176LN blackface, D and E revisions
- F.E.T. gain reduction
- Pushbutton selection of compression ratios: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
- Ultrafast attack time—20 microseconds to 800 microseconds
- Adjustable release time”50 milliseconds to 1.1 second
- Class A line level output amplifier
- Custom-built Putnam-designed output transformer
- Stereo interconnect operation
- Contemporary styling and eye-pleasing industrial design
Specs
- Input impedance: 600 ohms, bridges-T control (floating
- Output load impedance: 600 ohms, floating, damping factor 20
- External connections: Jones Barrier terminals and XLR connectors
- Frequency response: ±1dB 20Hz–20kHz
- Gain: 50dB
- Distortion: Less than 0.5% total harmonic distortion from 50Hz-15kHz with limiting
- Signal-to-noise ratio: Greater than 70dB at +10dBm
- Attack time: 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds
- Release time: 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds
- Threshold vs. output level:
- Compression ratio: 20:1; input level at +/-2dB: -25dBm; relative output: 13dBm
- Compression ratio: 12:1; input level at +/-2dB: -26dBm; relative output: 12dBm
- Compression ratio: 8:1; input level at +/-2dB: -27dBm; relative output: 11dBm
- Compression ratio: 4:1; input level at +/-2dB: -32dBm; relative output: 6dBm
- Stereo interconnection: via 1176 SA Network accessory
- Power requirements: 120/240V
- Environmental: Maximum operating temperature 160 F
- Dimensions (WxH): 19" x 3-1/2" (2RU)