Universal Audio 1176LN Classic Limiting Amplifier

Upon its release in 1967, the Universal Audio 1176LN Classic Limiting Amplifier quickly became iconic due to its lightning-fast attack and release times, musical Class A output stage, and a versatile range of sounds - from subtle, near-transparent compression to all-out drive and distortion. The 1176LN Classic Limiting Amplifier is a faithful, handbuilt reproduction of Bill Putnam Sr.'s original design, a true piece of audio history that has been behind some of the most legendary recordings by artists such as Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Michael Jackson.

Reliving its glory in 1999, when Bill Putnam Jr. relaunched Universal Audio, the 1176LN was the company's first product, reissued in 2000 and based on the C, D, and E revision circuit designs of the classic original. One of the significant milestones in recreating its legendary sound was the detailed replication of the original output transformer, which featured additional windings providing feedback signals to the final line output amplifier circuit. Bill Putnam Jr.'s extensive design notes rendered an authentic and improved version of his father's original blueprint, ensuring the nuanced subtleties of the first 1176LN are captured to perfection.

Among its standout features are the push-button selectable ratios for compression and limiting, and the famous “All Buttons In” mode, which delivers a unique, explosive sound, unlike any other processor ever made. This mode increases distortion and creates a plateaued slope, perfect for drum room mics, fuzzing out bass or electric guitar sound, or bringing vocals to the forefront. Each unit is meticulously hand-built and tested by Universal Audio's staff in Santa Cruz, California, ensuring it meets uncompromising standards and delivers that trademark sound. Demand only the original.

Key Features

• Faithful reproduction of the original 1176LN design and performance
• Based on classic 1176LN blackface, D, and E revisions
• Ultra-fast attack time ranging from 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds
• Class A line-level output amplifier
• Custom-built Putnam-designed output transformer
• Stereo interconnect operation capability
• Hand-built in the USA with a 1-year limited warranty

Specifications

• 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: ± 1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Gain: 50 dB
• Distortion: Less than 0.5% total harmonic distortion from 50 Hz to 15 kHz with limiting
• Signal to Noise Ratio: Greater than 70 dB at +10 dBm
• Attack Time: 20 microseconds to 800 microseconds
• Release Time: 50 milliseconds to 1.1 seconds
• Stereo Interconnection: via 1176 SA Network accessory
• Meter: dB gain reduction and dB output
• Power Requirements: 120/240 V
• Environmental: Maximum operating temperature 160°F
• Dimensions: 19” Rackmount chassis, 2U
• Weight (unboxed): 11 lbs.

Package Contents

• Universal Audio 1176LN Classic Limiting Amplifier
• Power Cable
• User Manual
• Warranty Information