Section 1 Description
This section provides a general description of the 176 Tube Limiting Amplifier. Please
review this information before installing or operating the 176.
1.1 Your Limiter
The 176 Tube Limiting Amplifier is designed to provide the quintessential character of
vintage tube compression in the modern recording studio environment. It is modeled
after the superb UA 176 limiter and adds new features and conveniences. The Retro 176
uses high quality components that should provide many years of trouble-free service.
Your limiter has been through a full burn-in and testing procedure at the factory.
Ease of use is key with user-friendly front panel controls and easily recallable settings.
No matter what settings you use, the great sonic traits of the 176 will enhance your
recordings.
1.2 Applications
The Retro 176 is designed for great versatility in many applications. Because of the way
real tube compression handles dynamics, the 176 enhances dimension, depth and detail.
Independent tracks such as vocal, bass, acoustic guitar, piano fill out nicely without harsh
restraint. The 176 is great for tracking, mixing and multibuss compression applications.
Possibly the best application for the 176 is use on the stereo buss, buffing it to a glossy
finish. The Retro 176 adjusts tone in a way that equalization cannot.
1.3 Specifications
Frequency Response
Flat within 0.5 dB from 20-20,000 Hz.
Harmonic Distortion
Below 1% from 20-20,000 Hz at 0-15 dB Gain Reduction
Noise Level
Greater than 76 dB below normal operating level
Gain Reduction
20 dB of available gain reduction
Maximum Gain
32 dB with input and output controls set maximum
Input Impedance
600 Ohms - floating transformer balanced
Output Impedance
600 Ohms - floating transformer balanced
Minimum Input Level
–26 dBm@2:1 ratio –12 dBm@12:1 ratio
Normal Operating Level
+4 dBm
Maximum Operating Level +20 dBm
Maximum Operating Temp. 55
°
C
Physical Dimensions
Standard 19” rack mounted. 2U, 3.5” high, 9.5” deep
Power Requirements
40 Watts at 115/230 VAC, 50/60 Hz.
