1176 Classic Limiter Collection at a Glance

The 1176 Classic Limiter Collection by Universal Audio recreates the 1176, the FET compressor designed by UA founder Bill Putnam and heard on a huge number of classic records. This collection gives you three versions of it in one plugin, and it runs on any Mac or PC, with no UA hardware needed.

The three versions each have their own character. The Rev A “Bluestripe” is the original design, with more distortion and bite. The Rev E “Blackface” is the early ’70s low-noise version, with a more linear compression response. The 1176AE is a copy of UA’s rare 40th Anniversary Edition, which adds a gentler 2:1 ratio.

Using it is simple. Input sets how hard you hit it, Output sets the level that comes out, and Attack and Release set how quickly it grabs and lets go. The plugin also lets you press several ratio buttons at once, including the famous “All Button” mode for an aggressive, overdriven sound.

If compression is still a bit of a mystery, our compression for beginners guide explains attack, release and ratio before you start turning knobs.

Sound

• Three famous 1176 versions: Rev A, Rev E and AE.
• Models the full electronic path, including transformers and amplifiers, for the colour of the hardware.
• “All Button” and “No Ratio” modes for overdriven textures.

Control

• Dry/Wet Mix for quick parallel compression on kick and bass.
• Sidechain filter to stop low frequencies causing pumping.
• Headroom control and improved VU metering.

Workflow

• Presets from 1176 users including Andrew Scheps, Andy Johns, Ed Cherney and Joe Chiccarelli.
• Both versions included: UAD Native for any audio interface, plus Apollo/UAD-2 for UA hardware.

System Compatibility

• Plugin Formats: VST3, AU, AAX
• Mac Requirements: macOS 11 Big Sur or later (up to Tahoe 26), Intel or Apple Silicon
• Windows Requirements: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit), Intel or AMD
• Activation: free UA Connect app, free iLok account and an internet connection (no iLok dongle needed)

1176 Classic Limiter Collection Deal FAQs

How long is the 1176 deal on?

The $29 sale price runs on Plugin Boutique until 1 November 2026.

Do I need a coupon code?

No. The discount is already applied on Plugin Boutique, so the $29 price shows without a code.

Do I need Universal Audio hardware?

No. The UAD Native version runs on any Mac or PC with any audio interface. The Apollo and UAD-2 versions are included as well, if you have UA hardware.

Does the 1176 Classic Limiter Collection work in Pro Tools?

Yes. It comes in AAX format as well as VST3 and AU.