Universal Audio Returns at This Year's AES

1176LN (Click for a close-up)

LA-2A (Click for a close-up)

Universal Audio debuted today with its flagship product line, Universal Audio Classics. Dedicated to authentic reproductions of classic analog audio equipment, the first products in the line are recreations of two of our industry's most heralded compressors and limiters: the 1176LN Limiting Amplifier and the Teletronix LA-2A Leveling Amplifier.

Originally produced by the legendary M.T. "Bill" Putnam, and father to UA founders William and Jim Putnam, these products have endured for over 30 years of daily use in studios worldwide. Today, the younger Putnams are carefully manufacturing reproductions of these models, true to the originals in virtually every aspect of design and performance.

The Universal Audio 1176LN is modeled after the highly regarded revisions D and E, "black face" versions of the original, which feature the Putnam-designed Class A output stage transformer, a feat of engineering at the time which is still considered to deliver a unique and coveted character to recorded sound.

The original Teletronix LA-2A design was purchased by the elder Putnam's company in the early 60's and quickly became an industry standard. Its unique electro-luminescent gain control was revolutionary at the time; its warm "tube sound" is still highly regarded. The new LA-2A is absolutely true to the original hand-built, with black wax lacing in place of contemporary tie wraps, carefully chosen tubes and the correct electro-optical parts.

Painstaking care in qualifying parts, authenticating manufacturing techniques and tuning each unit has been undertaken to ensure that the performance of these models equals that of the originals. Careful review of the audio characteristics is scheduled for the ensuing quarter, with units available for purchase in Q1 2000. Prices have not been settled, but are expected to fall below $2500 for the 1176LN and $3500 for the LA-2A. The company is currently qualifying dealers and distributors worldwide. Inquiries are welcome.

Universal Audio is based in Santa Cruz, California. Founded by M.T. "Bill" Putnam's sons, William and Jim, the company also employs Suz Howells former head of Product Marketing at Digidesign as its Vice President of Sales and Marketing.