Report Blog Entry
Universal Audio’s 1176 Peak Limiter is a true classic.
For detailed information, please check its Wiki.
Here’s an introduction to the UA 1176 Classic Limiter Collection:
Compression ratio: Four options
A&R: Slightly slower release and attack compared to other versions
This is the earliest 1176 version, delivering a warm, saturated, vintage sound with strong harmonics and coloration. I like using it on aggressive bass or drums, and it’s also great for vocals.
- 1176LN Rev E (Low Noise)
- 1176LN Rev E (Low Noise)
Compression ratio: Similar to Rev A
A&R: Similar to Rev A
A&R: Similar to Rev A
This is a later version of the 1176. Its controls are close to Rev A, but it offers clean, transparent sound with low noise and good control over strong transients, making it ideal for precise adjustments.
- 1176AE (Anniversary Edition)
Compression ratio: Unique 2:1 option
A&R: Features a special SLO mode
A&R: Features a special SLO mode
This is the 40th anniversary edition of the 1176. Compared to the others, it has a SLO mode with a fixed 10ms attack time and a smaller compression ratio, making it highly versatile.
There’s more to explore, like mix ratio, headroom, sidechain filters, all-button mode, and knee.
Before 3.31, you can get the 1176 Classic FET Compressor for free on UA’s official website.
It performs the same as the 1176LN Rev E but lacks mix ratio, sidechain filters, and headroom features.
There are also many other free or paid 1176 emulation plugins, but compared to UA’s own, the differences are noticeable.
This post is a personal note. You can take it as a plugin recommendation or just a fleeting breeze. Feel free to share any thoughts in the comments.
Comments
Displaying 3 of 3 comments ( View all | Add Comment )
autopsybiopsydeathmarch
1176s are so cold man. I really like using the plugin alliance MC77 on bass guitar. That thing crunches up so nicely. Haven't been able to justify blowing a bag on the UAD plugins but my buddy really likes em.
I haven’t tried Plugin Alliance’s MC77 yet. When looking into FET compressors, I heard about MC77 besides CLA-76, but I got UAD’s 1176. The Blue Stripe (Rev A) can sound warmer with more input gain, though it might not suit your taste.
I don’t often mix vocals, but when I need to, I usually use digital compression or the 76LN (sometimes the elysia mpressor) to control dynamics.
H-comp or PSP VintageWarmer2 should both work well on bass ^^.
(Using a translator)
by Hyelos; ; Report
✩𝘈𝘭𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦✩
Love seeing someone actually post this kind of stuff. I got my hands on the 1176 bundle a week ago, and I’ve already used it sooo many times for the drums, especially when you start stereo compression on drums, which gives a hugeee, slight distorted sound. Blue stripe has to be my favorite one of the 1176’s too. Also try to combine the 1176 with the LA-2A compressor, they are the most used compressors used together. Love that you actually blog about this!!
Sorry for not replying in time！^^ & thanks
（Use aTranslator）
by Hyelos; ; Report
0w0
mmmm…so if i need a CLEAN vocal , i should use the 1176ln right? so whats a COMPRESSOR?=w=
A compressor is an audio gadget that tames the loudness of a sound, making the loud parts quieter so your track sounds more balanced and punchy. This is an inaccurate but simple way to put it. You can search "Dynamic range compression" to learn more.
(Use a Translator)
by Hyelos; ; Report