Universal Audio 6176 Tube Channel Strip

95
GEARANK

95 out of 100. Incorporating 125+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$2,899
Universal Audio 6176 Tube Channel Strip

Gearank Recommendation

The Universal Audio 6176 appeared on our recommended list for Channel Strips Over $1500 when we first published that category in December 2021 where it remained until October 2022 when it was out-ranked by the Manley Core Reference and Rupert Neve Designs Shelford Channel.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Gearspace Strut78 80/100
Audiofanzine crankyrayhanky 80/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Overview

The Universal Audio 6176 brings together two well loved circuit designs: the Putnam 610 preamp and the famous 1176 FET compressor.

The Putnam 610 console design was developed by Bill Putnam during the 50's and 60s. Famous recordings done with this design include Van Halen, Frank Sinatra and Coldplay.

The 1176 is famous for its characterful sound and supremely fast attack.

The infamous "all buttons" mode is also included in this iteration for great mojo on tracks.

The Universal Audio 6176 is a modern studio classic with units gracing high-end studios all over the world. Countless hit records have been made with the namesake circuits.

Specifications

  • Channels: 1
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR (Preamp, Mic), 1 x XLR (Preamp, Line), 1 x XLR (Compressor, Line) 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z)
  • Outputs: 1 x XLR (Preamp), 1 x XLR (Compressor)
  • Preamp: Putnam 610 console mic/line preamplifier with +65 dB gain with 48v phantom power
  • Compressor: ratio 1:1 to 20:1 with "all buttons" mode
  • Equalizer: High- and low-frequency shelving EQ, each with 3 selectable hinge frequencies
  • Rackmountable: Yes - 1U

Demo