Quick answer: The 1176 Studio Compressor is an authentic Universal Audio UAFX product. Priced at $169.00, sold brand-new by Victory Musical Instruments, a veteran-owned authorized UA dealer in Miami, FL. Questions? Call 844-687-4208.

The legendary FET compressor, in a compact pedal. The Universal Audio UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor recreates the punchy, expressive sound of UA's iconic 1176 FET limiter — one of the most-recorded compressors in studio history — in a compact stompbox built by the company that makes the original hardware.

At a Glance

Overview

The UA 1176 has appeared on more hit records than nearly any other piece of studio equipment. Its FET-based compression delivers fast attack and assertive character that no optical or VCA compressor can match — the sound of aggressive vocal compression, punchy drums, and singing electric guitar. The compact 1176 pedal keeps the classic controls (Input, Output, Attack, Release, Ratio) and adds three operating modes: Single (classic 1176), Dual (Jimmy Page-style stacked compression), Sustain (Lowell George-style extended sustain).

Key Features

• Authentic 1176 FET Compression — Built by the company that makes the original hardware.
• Classic Controls — Input, Output, Attack, Release, Ratio — same as the original.
• "All Buttons In" Ratio Setting — Engages the famous gritty distortion-style compression.
• Three Operating Modes — Single (classic), Dual (layered), Sustain (extended).
• Footswitch Status LED as Meter — Visual gain-reduction indication.
• Switchable True/Buffered Bypass — Configure via UAFX Control app.

Specifications

• Format — Compact UAFX single-footswitch pedal with 5 knobs and 3-way mode switch.
• Power — Isolated 9V DC, center-negative (sold separately).
• Inputs — 1 x 1/4" TS (mono).
• Outputs — 1 x 1/4" TS (mono).
• Bypass — Switchable true/buffered bypass.
• Top-mounted jacks — Compact, pedalboard-friendly layout.

1176 vs. LA-2A: Which Pedal Compressor?

1176 is fast, aggressive, and adds attack to the signal — better for percussive sources (chicken-pickin', funk, punchy clean tones, modern rock rhythm). LA-2A is smooth, slow, and adds sustain and warmth — better for sustained tones (leads, ambient, clean strumming). Many engineers own both; if you can only get one, choose based on whether you want attack (1176) or sustain (LA-2A).

What's in the Box

• UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor pedal
• Quick start guide
• Note: 9V isolated power supply sold separately

Frequently Asked Questions

What power supply does this UAFX pedal need?

It runs on a standard 9V DC center-negative power supply (larger UAFX models need a higher-current supply). Check the box contents listed above to see whether a power supply is included with this model.

Is it true bypass, and does it work in stereo?

UAFX pedals offer switchable true or buffered bypass via the free UAFX Control app, and stereo-capable models accept and output stereo through their TRS or dual jacks.

Do I need the UAFX Control app to use it?

No, the pedal works standalone right out of the box. The free UAFX Control app (mobile and desktop) is optional and unlocks extra presets, alternate models, and deeper settings.

What's included in the box?

Your purchase includes: UAFX 1176 Studio Compressor pedal, Quick start guide.

Is the 1176 Studio Compressor a genuine Universal Audio product?

Yes. Victory Musical Instruments is a veteran-owned, authorized Universal Audio dealer based in Miami, FL. Every unit is brand-new, factory-sealed, and covered by the full UA manufacturer warranty.

Can I get help choosing or setting it up?

Absolutely. You'll talk to real people, not a call center. Call us at 844-687-4208 and we'll help you spec the right gear and get it running.

Why Buy from Victory Musical Instruments

Victory Musical Instruments is a veteran-owned authorized UA dealer based in Miami, FL. We back every sale with real human support, fast shipping, and the kind of follow-through that only comes from a small dedicated team. Active duty, veterans, reservists, and eligible family save through our ID.me military discount program.