Universal Audio Offers Free 1176 Plug-In as Part of Valentine's Day Giveaway

Until February 28, creators can get the new UA 1176 Classic FET Compressor Plug‑In for free, no UA hardware required

SCOTTS VALLEY, CA • February 14, 2025— Universal Audio Inc. (UA), a worldwide leader in audio production tools including Apollo and Volt audio interfaces, UAD plug‑ins, UAFX pedals, UA mics, and UAD Spark, is offering a free version of the 1176 Classic FET Compressor plug‑in, no Apollo or UAD hardware required.

Originally built by Bill Putnam Sr. in 1967, the Universal Audio 1176 remains the king of audio limiting, heard on more classic records than any other compressor.

The new 1176 Classic FET Compressor plug‑in is a faithful emulation of this legendary compressor, delivering the same punchy, expressive tones as the original hardware. One of the most enduring studio compressor designs, the UA 1176 gives creators fast, radio‑ready results on drums, vocals, and anything in between.

"We pride ourselves on our analog modeling and the craftsmanship behind UAD plug‑ins," says CEO and founder, Bill Putnam Jr. "We're hoping to inspire musicians and producers with this free 1176 plug‑in and can't wait for folks to add this iconic compressor to their productions."

From February 14-28, 2025, creators can redeem their free plug‑in license at uaudio.com or from a participating retailer.

UA 1176 Classic FET Compressor Plug‑in Features

  • Add color, character, and vibe with one of the most famous compressors ever made
  • Get ultra‑fast attack time on bass, guitars, vocals and more
  • Track and mix with the original legendary FET‑Style Compressor from UA
  • Harness the 1176's entire electronic path including transformers and FET and transistor amplifiers for colorful distortion
  • Add colorful overdriven texture with the legendary "All‑Button" mode
  • Use with any DAW on Mac or PC – no UA hardware required


Download the 1176 Classic FET Compressor plug‑in for free:
uaudio.com/products/ua-1176-fet

Download images and press materials:
u.audio/1176-plugin-giveaway-pr


About Universal Audio Inc.
Universal Audio (UA) is a pioneer in audio and music production tools, with a rich 60‑year history of craftsmanship and innovation. UA today enables millions of audio and music creators worldwide, with industry‑standard Apollo and Volt recording interfaces, UAD plug‑ins, UAFX pedals, advanced audio machine learning, LUNA recording suite, and UA Custom Shop hardware. UA is headquartered in Scotts Valley, California, with passionate employees worldwide – united by our goal of inspiring musicians and creatives with "instant classics."

©2025 Universal Audio, Inc. All rights reserved. Product features, specifications, pricing, and availability are subject to change without notice. The "Universal Audio" name, UA "diamond" logo, "Apollo," "Apollo Twin," "UAD," "Powered Plug‑Ins," "UA Sphere," and "LUNA Recording System" are trademarks or registered trademarks of Universal Audio Inc. *All other trademarks contained herein are property of their respective owners, which may or may not be affiliated with Universal Audio Inc.

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