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Universal Audio 6176 Channel Strip

BH #UN6176 • MFR #6176
4 reviews
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Universal Audio 6176 Channel Strip
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$2,999.00
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Universal Audio 6176 Overview

The Universal Audio 6176 is a tube channel strip comprised of the classic 610 Microphone Preamp and legendary 1176 Compressor. With its tremendously flexible tone, function and ultra-quiet operation, the 6176 is the perfect analog front-end for digital audio recording.

Tone Quality
Classic sound of the legendary 610 modular console
Class-A Circuitry
Ultra quiet operation with microphone, balanced line and Hi-Z inputs
Independent Channel Functionality
Join/Split switch allows for complete independent operation of each unit
Compression
Classic 1176LN compression
Shelving EQ's
Stepped high and low frequency filters
Power Supply
Internal switching power supply
UPC: 819937000225

Universal Audio 6176 Specs

Number of Channels
Single
Inputs
1 x XLR Microphone In
1 x XLR Line In
1 x 1/4" TS phone Instrument In
1 x XLR Compressor In
Outputs
1 x XLR Line Out
1 x XLR Compressor Out
Frequency Response
20Hz to 20kHz (+0, -1dB)
Noise
Preamp: SNR > 90dB @ maximum gain
Compressor: SNR > 75dB
Preamp
Gain Range
65dB (500 Ohm input impedance)
Maximum Output
+20dBm
Input Impedance
500 ohms or 2K ohms
Phantom Power
+48V
Compressor
Threshold Range
Not specified by manufacturer
Ratio
1:1
4:1
8:1
12:1
20:1
"All Button" mode
Attack Time
20 to 800 mS, adjustable
Release Time
50 mS to 1.1 Sec, adjustable
Slope
Not specified by manufacturer
Sidechain
No
Equalizer
Filter Type
Low and high shelf
Frequency Bands
HF Shelf: 4.5, 7 and 10kHz
LF Shelf: 70, 100 and 200Hz
Bandwidth
Not applicable
Range (Boost/Cut)
1.5, 3, 4.5, 6, 9dB, switchable boost/cut
Light Indication
Threshold Range
Not applicable
Ratio
Not applicable
Attack Time
Not applicable
De-Esser
Threshold Range
Not applicable
Frequency Range
Not applicable
Gate
Gate Threshold
Not applicable
Gate Rate
Not applicable
Physical
Dimensions
2U, 19" rack
Weight
12 lbs
Specialties
A center section toggle switch labeled JOIN/SPLIT allows separate use of the 610B preamp and the 1176LN limiter
Two 6176s can be ganged together for stereo operation using the optional 1176-SA kit
Packaging Info
Package Weight
17.5 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
22.7 x 18 x 8"

Universal Audio 6176 Reviews

Should probably not be your first channel strip, but a classic.

By Johannes
Rated 4 out of 5
Date: 2025-12-14

A very specific "character" channel strip, and if you're after THAT sound, certainly the classiest way to achieve it. "That" sound: rich, warm, nuanced, but somewhat limited. One reason I wouldn't recommend this as someone's first piece of outboard gear (it was mine ...), is that the controls are very unique and not always intuitive. Especially the EQ settings on the preamp side are a little clunky and don't always seem to do all that much. If you're searching for silky shimmering highs, a Neve type preamp/EQ would get you there more reliably. If you want to go straight into your audio interface, bypassing its built in preamp, you might also be underwhelmed by its power, and end up pushing the compressor output control for more oomph, which obviously has its downsides. As for that compressor: It's an 1176, so clearly one of the most legendary units, but again, the controls in this layout are a little weird. The 1676 is probably the coolest looking preamp/compressor out there, with its enormous old-timey black knobs and its whole vibe. I don't regret getting it, but it had a bit of a steep learning curve and delivered fewer "wow" moments than I had hoped for. My advice would be to make sure this is exactly the sound you're looking for. It totally shines as a bass DI. For vocals, it's an acquired taste, and not the best choice for darker mics, such as 47 types, at least not if you want that modern sheen and sparkle.

Classic

By Mr. Chris
Rated 5 out of 5
Date: 2010-04-15

Vocals are tailored easily. Acoustic guitars are rich and full. Compression unit can be subtle. Easy to use with a very classic sound for your recordings.

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