Universal Audio Unveils Classics Product Line1176LN Solid State Limiting Amplifier and Teletronix LA-2A Leveling Amplifier
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1176LN
(Click for a close-up) |
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LA-2A
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September 24, 1999Universal 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.
Universal Audio
PO Box 3818
Santa Cruz, CA 95063-3818
(831) 454 0630 voice
(831) 454 0689 fax
www.uaudio.com | 
