The Urei 1178 is a classic analog compressor that was widely used in professional audio production. It was originally designed by Universal Audio and was known for its transparent and versatile compression characteristics. The Urei 1178 is often praised for its ability to control dynamics without coloration, making it a popular choice for both tracking and mixing.
The Urei 1178 compressor features two channels, each with its own VU meter for monitoring gain reduction. It offers various controls, including threshold, ratio, attack, and release settings, allowing engineers to tailor the compression to suit their needs. The “NORM/LIM” switch can be used to select between normal compression and limiting modes.
The Urei 1178 has a reputation for its fast attack time, making it suitable for tasks such as drum compression where transient control is crucial. It has been used on a wide range of musical genres, from rock and pop to jazz and electronic music.
While the 1178 is a vintage piece of equipment, it is still highly regarded in the audio industry and sought after by many professionals for its unique sonic qualities.
Bob Clearmountain is a highly respected audio engineer and mixer known for his work with numerous iconic artists and bands. One of the notable aspects of Bob Clearmountain’s mixing style is his use of the Urei 1178 compressor. Clearmountain has been known to incorporate the Urei 1178 into his mixing chain for various purposes, including drum and vocal processing.
The fast attack time of the 1178 can help control transients and shape the dynamics of instruments and vocals, which aligns with Clearmountain’s mixing philosophy of enhancing the clarity and impact of individual elements in a mix. While Clearmountain’s approach to using the Urei 1178 might vary from project to project, it’s often cited as one of the tools in his arsenal that contributes to the signature sound of his mixes.
