The Universal Audio 6176 combines two pro audio legends — the 610 mic/line tube preamp and the 1176LN solid-state compressor/limiter — to create what may be the ultimate channel strip. The preamp section is packed with features, such as mic, line, and hi-Z inputs; two bands of shelving EQ; and a 15dB pad. The dynamics section maintains all the classic features found on the classic 1176LN. Each unit has dedicated ins and outs and can be used independently in Split mode or in series in Join mode via a front-panel switch. Handcrafted in Universal Audio’s Scotts Valley, California labs, the 6176 offers weapons-grade build quality and colorful sonic character at an accessible price.

Classic vintage sound for your studio

Advances in digital recording technology are providing users with tremendous power and flexibility for increasingly less money. All too often, however, the audio quality of these systems is limited by their input stages. Many users who demand the power and flexibility of today’s recording technology find themselves yearning for the warmth and tone of yesteryear’s handbuilt analog circuitry. Now with the release of the 6176, Universal Audio combines their highly acclaimed 610 tube microphone preamp with their legendary 1176LN compressor to create the ultimate single-channel signal path for everything from vocals to vibraphones. Sweetwater’s advice: if you want to make great-sounding music, you need a great front end: the Universal Audio 6176.

A legendary tube preamp

The tube preamp/DI/EQ section of the 6176 is based on the legendary console modules developed by Bill Putnam in the late 1950s and early ’60s. From Sinatra and the Beach Boys to Van Halen and Coldplay, countless classics have been recorded using these preamps, noted for their musical character and warmth. This preamp delivers a versatile sonic palette ranging from warm, vibrant cleans to tasty vintage coloration. The 2-610 has all the essentials: a classic tube mic/line pre with switchable 48V phantom power, direct instrument input, 15dB pad, polarity reverse, and flexible dual impedance selection for both Mic and DI inputs. For maximum flexibility, you also get great-sounding low-and high-frequency shelving EQ, each with three selectable hinge frequencies. The 6176’s preamp section packs tremendous sonic versatility and is an ideal front end for tracking with modern DAWs and the serious project studio seeking authentic UA sound.

The most iconic solid-state compressor, ever

The Stones, Zeppelin, Michael Jackson — you’ve heard it on countless classic recordings. It’s the legendary 1176LN. In 1967, Bill Putnam released the solid-state redesign of his venerable 176 tube compressor, ushering in the modern era of dynamics processing. The Universal Audio 1176LN Limiting Amplifier was an instant classic. It features ultra-fast attack and release times and a broad palette of sonic malleability ranging from inconspicuous compression to flamboyant distortion. Its Class A output stage, which incorporates a custom overwound transformer, always delivers sweetly musical results. UA re-created the 1176LN for the compressor section of the 6176. It’s a toneful beast that works wonders on every signal you pass through it. Basses sound gargantuan. It imparts a definitive thwack to lackluster snare drums. It has no equal for grabbing a vocal and pushing it to the front of your mix. And if you’ve never heard of all-in “Nuke Mode,” you’re in for a real treat. Your studio simply isn’t complete without an 1176. Combined in one chassis with the legendary Putnam 610 mic preamp, you’ve got what may well be the ultimate channel strip.

Universal Audio 6176 Channel Strip Features:

• Classic Putnam 610 console mic/line preamplifier
• High- and low-frequency shelving EQ, each with 3 selectable hinge frequencies
• Classic 1176LN compression
• Variable input gain and output levels
• Ultra-quiet operation
• Mic, balanced line, and hi-Z inputs
• Multiple impedance settings
• 15dB pad, polarity reverse, 48V phantom power
• Stereo interconnection of multiple units via 1176-SA
• Use mic pre and compressor separately (Split) or in series (Join)
• Legendary UA build quality and heritage
• Handcrafted in UA’s Scotts Valley, California labs