The Definitive Collection Of The World’s Most Famous Compressors

Now compatible with any soundcard on Mac and PC

The original Universal Audio 1176 was designed by UA founder M.T. “Bill” Putnam, and represented a major breakthrough in limiter technology. The first compressor featuring solid‑state circuitry and ultra-fast 20 microsecond FET gain reduction, the 1176 is an easy‑to‑use “desert island” compressor that has lent its character and punch to some of the greatest recordings in history.

Upon its release in 2001, UA’s first 1176 plug‑in single‑handedly launched the UAD platform. Extensive end‑to‑end circuit modeling in 2013 captured even more sonic nuance. Now with updated graphics and additional controls, the 1176 Classic Limiter Collection continues its legacy of analog modeling excellence.

A Triple Threat

The 1176 Classic Limiter Plug-In Collection provides three distinct 1176 revisions, representing over 40 years of design iterations to the original 1176. The Rev A “Bluestripe” represents the original Putnam FET limiter design, complete with its higher distortion and unique FET gain amplifier characteristics. The Rev E “Blackface” covers the early '70s Brad Plunkett “LN” (Low Noise) era, with variations including a more linear compression response, transistor gain amplification, and a change to the program dependence. The 1176AE provides UA’s rare 1176 40th Anniversary Edition, complete with exclusive mods — including its lower 2:1 compression ratio.

Classic Compression, Quickly

Using an 1176 is a study in simplicity. Input simultaneously sets compression threshold and the level of the signal entering the 1176; Output sets the final signal level. Attack sets the time it takes the 1176 to respond to incoming signal, while Release sets the time it takes the 1176 to return to its initial level. The VU meter displays the amount of gain reduction (GR) or output level (+4/+8).

Ratio Buttons for Iconic Color

The four Ratio buttons determine the degree of gain reduction — lower ratios for compression, higher ratios for limiting. Disengaging all Ratio buttons disables compression, while continuing to pass signal through the 1176 circuitry, adding unmistakable color. At the request of users, “Multi-Button” combinations possible with the hardware are now attainable in the plug-in — including the famous “All Button” sound.

Added Features for Modern Workflows

Exclusive plug‑in only features lend modern workflows to this classic processor collection. Get quick parallel processing on bass and kick drums with Dry/Wet mix controls, or use the custom Sidechain Filter to tame low‑frequency pumping. Plus, enhanced graphics with improved VU metering bring iconic FET compression into a new age.

Features

Use any audio interface, with both UAD Native and Apollo Realtime/UAD-2 versions included
Track and mix with painstaking emulations of the legendary 1176, the most popular compressor ever made
Choose from three famous versions: Rev A, Rev E, and AE — each with their own sonic attributes
Harness the 1176’s entire electronic path including transformers and FET and transistor amplifiers for colorful distortion
Access “All-Button” or “No Ratio” modes for colorful overdriven textures
Expanded controls for Headroom, Mix, and custom Sidechain Filter for reduced LF pumping
Mix with presets from legendary 1176 users such as Andy Johns, Andrew Scheps, Ed Cherney, and Joe Chiccarelli

Versions Included with your Purchase

UAD Native: Runs on your Mac or PC without any UA hardware
Apollo Realtime & UAD-2: Runs accelerated on Apollo interfaces and UAD-2 hardware

System Requirements

macOS 10.15 Catalina, 11 Big Sur, 12 Monterey, 13 Ventura
Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit only Editions)
Intel, AMD, or Apple silicon processor
Internet connection to download software and authorize UADx plug-ins
Free iLok account with iLok Cloud or iLok USB (2nd generation or higher)
A physical iLok dongle is NOT required to activate this product

DAW Compatibility

Pro Tools 2022 (AAX)
Logic Pro (Audio Units)
Ableton Live 11 (VST 3, Audio Units)
Cubase 12 (VST 3)
Studio One 5 (VST 3)
LUNA Recording System

You can activate this software on an online system (using iLok Cloud) or an offline system (using an iLok USB):

Online: an active internet connection and a FREE iLok account are required to authorise UAD Plug-ins using iLok Cloud
Offline: you will need a physical iLok USB (2nd generation or higher) to authorise this software

Important note: UAD plugins do not work in Apple's Garageband DAW