Product Overview

Iconic Analog Compression Meets Next-Gen Desktop Mobility

The Universal Audio Volt 176 redefines the entry point of professional desktop tracking by combining UA's historical studio processors into a highly compact, single-input workspace. Built specifically for creators who only record one source at a time but refuse to compromise on their overall tonal quality, this interface features a high-bandwidth USB-C connection that ensures rock-solid ASIO driver stability and ultra-low latency performance across Mac, Windows, iPad, and iPhone setups.

While most small interfaces offer a completely transparent, sterile signal, the Volt 176 is built to act like a miniature analog channel strip. Its internal hardware compressor and tube-emulation circuits shape your signal before it ever enters your digital audio workstation (DAW). Whether you are tracking voiceovers on a PC or recording an acoustic guitar into an iPad at a remote location, the Volt 176 delivers the polished, radio-ready snap of classic hardware processors without the need for complex, heavy gear racks.

Product Description

Onboard 76 Compressor with Targeted Presets:

The defining highlight of the Volt 176 is its built-in analog 76 Compressor. Inspired by Universal Audio's legendary 1176 Peak Limiter—heard on countless classic albums—this custom analog circuit controls volume dynamics and adds unmistakable presence to your signal. Instead of complicated menus, the front panel features an intuitive button that lets you toggle between three expertly tuned presets: Vocal, Guitar, and Fast (ideal for high-transient percussion or synths). This hardware compressor tames peaks in real-time, giving your tracking sessions a tight, professional finish before editing.

The Iconic Warmth of the UA 610 Tube Preamp:

In addition to compression, the Volt 176 features Universal Audio's highly regarded Vintage Mic Preamp mode. When activated, a proprietary internal solid-state circuit realistically emulates the behavior, tube-driven saturation, and organic harmonic richness of the historic UA 610 modular tube console. This subtle analog coloration rounds out harsh digital highs and introduces an incredible sense of body and depth to microphone and instrument signals alike, saving you massive amounts of time during the final mixing stage.

Elite Audio Conversion, Premium Monitoring, and Classy Aesthetics:

Equipped with premium 24-bit/192 kHz analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters, the Volt 176 delivers immaculate signal clarity with an incredibly low noise floor. The balanced 1/4" TRS outputs ensure uncolored monitoring through your studio speakers, while the dedicated front-panel headphone amplifier delivers a loud, high-current drive to track easily with high-impedance headphones. Wrapped in a rugged all-metal enclosure accented with authentic, premium wood side panels, the Volt 176 looks just as sophisticated as it sounds.

A Curated Suite of Professional Studio Software:

To make sure you have a complete production toolkit from day one, Universal Audio bundled the Volt 176 with a suite of highly capable creative software. Instead of generic starter plugins, you receive industry-standard tools like Ableton Live Lite, Celemony Melodyne Essential for professional pitch correction, Softube’s Time & Tone Bundle, Marshall Plexi Classic Amp modeling, and world-class virtual instruments from Spitfire Audio and UJAM, turning your desktop into a fully loaded digital workstation.

Key Features

• ANALOG 76 COMPRESSOR: Onboard hardware compression circuit based on the legendary UA 1176, featuring three quick presets for Vocals, Guitars, and Fast sources.

• VINTAGE MIC PREAMPS: Built-in tube-emulation circuitry that applies the legendary analog warmth and saturation of the historic UA 610 console preamp.

• PRO 24-BIT/192 KHZ CONVERSION: Elite class-leading audio conversion layer providing sparkling resolution, wide dynamic range, and ultra-low noise floor.

• USB BUS-POWERED EFFICIENCY: Runs completely off your host computer's USB port, eliminating the need for bulky external power supplies during travel.

• UNIVERSAL CROSS-PLATFORM COMPATIBILITY: True plug-and-play functionality on Mac and Windows, alongside native support for iPad and iPhone.

• STUDIO-GRADE HEADPHONE AMP: High-power headphone output with independent volume control that delivers loud, transparent monitoring for all studio headphone types.

• ZERO-LATENCY DIRECT MONITORING: Front-panel hardware switch for instantaneous direct monitoring, allowing you to hear your live inputs with no annoying digital delay.

• DEDICATED MIDI I/O CONNECTIONS: Rear-panel 5-pin MIDI Input and Output ports to easily connect hardware synthesizers, drum machines, and MIDI controllers.

• PREMIUM WOOD-TRIM ENCLOSURE: Heavy-duty all-metal structure accented with classic solid-wood side cheeks for a high-end studio aesthetic.

Technical Specifications