excellent review and music too. the acoustic guitar in particular. retro are making some of the finest tools out there I think. so it's nice to see the appreciation I and others share for them mirrored so authentically here
I really appreciate you watching the review and your kind words! Retro definitely makes gear that just sounds the way I like to hear things. I’m a huge fan of their Sta Level as well. I’d love to check out the revolver sometime.
This is how you review audio gear! A brief intro and then multiple samples without talking. The Retro 176 has me seriously looking at it... I was considering the La-2A but its hard to justify spending $5,000 on it knowing there are some cheaper and more versatile units such as the Retro and the CL-1B. The Distressor does not sound good to my ears on vocals and the 1176 is also a bit too limited (no pun intended) for the price. I think the Retro is a good value for the sound and features it offers. Damn it sounds good.
Hey man ! Thanks a lot for this review and insight; the best available on youtube. It really helped me make my decision over an 1176 for the home studio. It's versatility ticks so many boxes - and I can't wait to hear the sound of the tubes when it arrives ! Thanks again for your time & dedication. Cheers !!
Man I really appreciate your kind words! I'm not a professional TH-camr so these videos really are just made out of a passion for our industry so I'm so glad you found it helpful. Enjoy your 176! Cheers!
Thank you very much for this very informative video, finally there is a great video that talks about this great compressor! I would like to see more videos like this one! Best regards!
Thank you so much for your comment! I’m really glad you found the video informative. I hope to review many more compressors of this quality in the future!
Dude, this is so specific, it's awesome. I especially like the fact that you've got the video divvied up by section/topic - and that you read applicable bits from the manual. THIS was the conversation I wanted to have with SW or VK this week, about this comp! I don't have to now! You rock, bro. Question: Are you regularly using 2 on the stereo bus, also?
Dude..you made my day! Thanks so much for your kind words. I’m really glad you found some useful information from this video! I wish I had a pair to keep on the stereo bus but I only have one which is typically parked on the lead vocal at the moment. I’d love to check out a retro revolver for the stereo buss someday as well 👍🏻
@@SeawellStudios ive been saving up for the perfect thickening compressor - just ordered a 176 from VK today!!! Thanks again, man, I think you might’ve changed my game for the better .
@@SeawellStudios Thanks, man. By the way, if you’re able to share the names of any artists or tracks that you’ve engineered or mixed that prominently feature your 176 (aside from the great ones you shared in this video), I’m sure tons of folks would love to check them out.
Cool, I’m glad to do that! I used the 176 during the mix on all of these vocals: "Clear" by Mid August Music: music.apple.com/us/album/clear/1214672777?i=1214672783 Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/79fsuziknd4qSmSFqRhYor?si=iHykl8vATsKpMPj3i9KN3Q "Lost" by Joey Barnes Music: music.apple.com/us/album/lost-feat-luna-arcade-tracy-thornton-greensboro-college/1430904553?i=1430904881 Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/6J21m6qvD4Y1nKeu9L2LiD?si=PxG6NcOHQdaqjvNS7g4eTg "Heavenly Things" by Enter The Worship Circle Music: music.apple.com/us/album/heavenly-things-feat-ben-pasley-karla-adolphe/1336710042?i=1336710048 Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/5JGZWUlNDO7ArFLmvK7MGD?si=L9j_xaVIQxqExiwor679tA
Thanks Andy! That is a tough choice. I've owned a CL1A and CL1B. Given the choice between Tubetech and the 176 I think it would depend more on if I did primarily pop style vocals or not. It has pretty much become THE sound for that genre. I prefer the tone of the 176 and the overall versatility but I do more rock stuff so that could be why. I don't think you could go wrong either way! Let me know what you end up going with!
Yeah man, I produce and work with a lot of different singers in different styles and want a premium comp to track Vocals, Bass, and Guitars through. It's difficult not being able to demo right now so your videos are super helpfull!
@@PerceptiveAudio don’t know if you decided or not, but personally I’d go with the CL1B. I just feel like it’s a more versatile tool in the end, it does a lot of things pretty well while the 176 does one thing VERY well. It sounds like you’d probably benefit from the flexibility the CL1B provides.
@@bluehole6019 I went with the 176. Still loving it and love the aggression and snarl when you drive it. My favourite setting is with the attack know pulled out for super fast attack and release times.
Thank you for your kind words! The singer is my friend Patrick Rock, be sure to check out more of his music when you get a chance: www.patrickrockmusic.com/music
I usually start at 2:1, slowest attack ,fastest release. If the vocal is really dynamic, I will go to 4:1 and slowly speed up the attack to taste. I hope that helps!
@@SeawellStudios dude yes ! Thank you swooped one of these due to your endorsement and mainly based off how your examples sound I know you know what you’re talking about ! Thanks man !
Awesome! I hope you enjoy your 176! A couple more notes...if you find yourself wanting something more transparent, interstage filter off and experimenting with the HPF and asymmetry switch(compressor only reacts to either the positive or negative side of the waveform) can yield some really clean/transparent vocals when that is what you're looking for. On the flip side, if you want some saturation, fastest attack and release will get you there quickly!
Man… if I could find a plug-in 176 or Sta Level I’d be the happiest guy in the world, but it seems we’re still quite a ways off. Thanks for checking out the video!
Hi Josh, first of all I would like to thank you for all the stuff you did so far (and hopefully in future) in your channel, like that sooo much! I saw in the newer vids that the 176 is not in your rack anymore and the RS 124 is back in place. So you´ve changed it back to Chandler and sold the 176? Regards Carsten
Hi Carsten! Thanks so much for your kind words. It truly mean a lot to me that you're found the content here valuable. I am trying my best to get the 176 - Sta Level - RS124 all in here at the same time to do a side by side comparison soon. I love them all equally and to be completely transparent, I only rotate between them depending on the project I'm working on at the time. The eventual goal is to be able to financially hang on to them all at the same time. So, just know if you ever see one shifting out of the rack, it's purely financial and specific to the project I'm working on at the time, not because I've changed how I feel about any of them. I've used all 3 a ton for years now and I can't imagine ever falling out of love with any of them :)
Sounds very smooth and warm I’ve heard the tube tech also neither in real life but on comparison videos dam there both beautiful if you got both or have either your a winner would like to here the retro on vocals
I've owned both and you definitely can't go wrong with either one! They are both world class. I do prefer the retro on vocals in particular when it comes mix time because I prefer the aggressiveness and saturation you can push it into when needed. It isn't as polite as the tube tech I guess is the best way to put it 😁. I love the tube tech as a vocal tracking compressor though! There are two examples in this video of the 176 on vocals(at 11:03 and 21:05) in case you haven't heard those yet. Thanks for checking out the video and for your comment!
Curious about your thoughts between this retro comp, the chandler 670 and the CL1b if you could only pick one for vocals. Also would love to know the mic you used on the vocals and guitars, and what reverb you have going there. 🤘🏻🤘🏻
I'd choose the 176. It's the most versatile of that group. The RS660 can get a truly special vocal sound but it's often not the right fit on voices with a lot of high mid info. CL1B is ok but WAY overrated/overpriced in my opinion. Lead vocal #1 was a Flea 47 and Lead Vocal #2 was a Korby KAT with 67 capsule. Reverb was a Lexicon PCM 70 on Vocal #1 and a PCM 91 on Vocal #2 👍🏼. Acoustic guitar was a blend of a Fat Head II Ribbon mic and a Josephson C42. Electric Guitar was a Divided by 13 RPB 19/37 miced with a AEA R92 and a Sennheiser E609, reverb was the built in spring reverb on the Divided by 13. Thanks for checkin out the video and taking the time to comment, it's much appreciated!
@@SeawellStudios I’m looking to pick up a pair of these really soon and this video sealed the deal! Also what mic/preamp were you using on the vocals? Sounds fantastic
@@OwensDrumming awesome! I'd love to pick up a 2nd 176 myself eventually. For the vocals sounds, the 1st vocal example was a Flea 47 into a Shadow Hills preamp on the Iron setting and the 2nd vocal was a Korby KAT with 67M capsule into Shadow Hills(Iron).
I´d love to listen this on the mix bus, have you ever tried that? with those flexible features it looks like it would do an incredible job glueing everything together
I've never had a pair to give that a try but I've heard from others that love it in that application! I'd definitely love to give it a shot at some point. I could definitely see it working well there.
I just found out my favorite recording/mix engineer (Jacquire King) uses the retro 176 and retro 500 pre as his go to vocal chain. Now I’m finding all these other videos praising it. Definitely going to order one before they go on back order. I’ve been waiting to find a CL1b for its fast attack on rap vocals but it seems like this could also handle that well.
I’m a huge fan of Jacquire so that’s cool to hear he’s using the 176. Just my 2 cents but I’d take a 176 over the CL1B if I had to choose. Thanks for checking out the video!
@@SeawellStudios PLEASE Elaborate. I am in a crunch with no money or time to waste on a return so I am hoping I nail this right of the back...I need some hardware work horses. I'm looking at the u87ai vs the Manley Ref to combine with either 1073 vs Shelford and an Apollo x16.... I'm solid on most of the decision making I'm torn on the compressors choices though... My goal is to control dynamic rookies, limited mad rappers, and add the cream and saturation that I can't get from any of my plugin bundles or UAD's "Unison" and Mic emulations. Thanks, Bro, I'm hoping you respond to this sometime soon. I know what "busy" looks like.
@@minkfranchise6389 while I'd prefer a 176, I don't usually mix rap or hip hop...so... Because the TubeTech CL1B is THE sound those clients will be expecting, I would probably go that route if I were you. The TubeTech is cleaner than the 176 and will help rappers cut through better I'd think.
@@SeawellStudios Exactly what I was looking at, but I have never used it... not even the plugin. Do you think the CL1B would be a better choice than the LA2A? I already have an 1176 (used mainly for mixing). Thanks for such a swift answer, BTW.
@@minkfranchise6389 the CL1B is definitely a more modern sound and is much more versatile with the variable attack and release. The LA2A is a classic and there are great modern clones(Stam and AudioScape) but it may be a little slow for faster rappers in particular.
Thank you so much for your videos. Just a question. Are you usually use this gear during recording or after that in the mixed track, so you can explore different characters?
I"m so glad you're enjoying the videos! I use outboard like the 176 during tracking and mixing. For instance, if tracking I usually set the 176 at 2:1, slowest attack, fastest release. In a mix I usually do something more aggressive like 4:1 with a fast attack and release. It's a really versatile unit so you can use it in either tracking and/or mixing with no problem or undesired sonic build up.
@ thanks so much even for the tips ….I am going to buy one beetween retro 176, stalevel or rs124. I am going to use on voices and try on mixbus (L and R separately because they are mono). I think retro 176 is the most versatile unit but i am really attracted from rs124 design
This is an ideal review, thank you! No BS, just great examples of what this gear can do. Is it just me or does it have a smoothness to it that kind of separates it from a standard black 1176LN?
Thank you, I really appreciate your kind words and I'm glad you found the review helpful. I think that smoothness you're hearing is exactly why I prefer the 176 to an 1176 on vocals. You can really dig in and compress, without getting all the hard consonants, etc.. It has all the tone of a great vari mu but with the speed that other vari mu comps can't compete with. Still loving it here!
I had a pair of retro 176 fist time I put them on Vocals I thought this is a amazing comp for VOX never tried the clb1 I loved the 176 on the master/mix buss tracks have a crazy wideness dont use any of very very little amount of compression just the tone add so much to the master /mix chain
I'd love to get another one in here and check them out on the mix buss, I bet it's awesome! Thanks for checking out the video and for sharing your experience with the 176.
Hey man. Mind if I pick your brains again? Still on a steep learning curve with compressors! How would you say the 176 stacks ups against a 1176? In my mind the 176 is more retro/warm whereas the 1176 is more for more modern and better for pop/rock. Is that correct? And is there a situation you’d pick a 1176 over the 176? Thanks for your advice- it’s very valued and appreciated.
I’m always happy to talk shop man! The 176 and 1176 sound so different that I wish the names weren’t so similar as to not cause confusion. I would choose a 176 if you’re primarily mixing and want to add a truly special tone(particularly to lead vocals). It’s also a great tracking compressor for singer-songwriter/rock/country. An 1176 would be my choice for heavier rock, rap/hip hop. You’ll be able to get more aggressive snares, kicks, etc.. All buttons in is a lot of fun for aggressive vocals and drum room mics in particular. The good news is, you really can’t go wrong with either. For an 1176, the Stam ADG is my favorite so you get 3 flavors of 1176 revisions all in one unit. I hope that’s helpful! Keep me posted 👍🏻
Hi thanks for this demo, very useful. Also I'm very impressed for the overall recordings and tracks. I particular I wanted to ask you if you can tell me what are the acoustic and electric guitar in the song. beautiful sound from the source too. If you can tell me what guitars , amps and microphones you used ... thanks! And compliments for your work!!
Thank you so much for your kind words! That really means a lot to me. The tracking set up for acoustic was was m/s with the Josephson C42 being the middle and the Cascade Fat Head II being the sides. You can see a pic here: realgearonline.com/post/253852 I'll track down the electric guitar notes asap and post those then!
@@musicvideolabs Acoustic was a Taylor 814 and the preamps were Shadow Hills Quad Gama. I make pretty detailed notes on all this during the recording process so I'll track them down and have all the specifics soon!
Hey dude, Great video! Is there anything in a 500 series comes close ? Also have you ever compared the 176 to the Elop ? I’m working on female vocals, Kind Regards :)
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I haven't used one, but for 500 series I would check out the Retro Doublewide II. I also haven't used an Elop. I think IGS Audio & Wes Audio have some 500 series vari mu units too so that would be another place to check. I'd definitely start with the retro doublewide II based off of the comments I've heard from other users though.
So good, yet so subtle and pretty much impossible to justify the $4000 price tag unless you’re a full on pro. While it’s probably not practical I’d love to hear a shootout between this baby and a few other HW and software plugins.
I definitely hear you on the price! Thankfully, they can still be found used occasionally in the $2,600-$3,000 range. I'd love to eventually get a Sta Level and an RS124 back in here...maybe even a BG2 and do a vari mu shootout. One of these days!
That's such a tough one and I'd be more than happy with either! If you're tracking vocals or mixing vocals that were recorded without any compression on the way in, then the 176 is going to be the most versatile and always find a way to work. If your vocal already has a little mojo going and you just want to sweeten it to push it over the top then the Sta Level is perfect. A bonus is that the Sta Level is killer on bass as well! I have a full review of both on the channel using the same male vocalist(Patrick Rock) that may help you hear a little more of the similarities and differences. I hope that helps! 176 Full Review: th-cam.com/video/99m7TXcs11o/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUQcmV0cm8gMTc2IHJldmlldw%3D%3D Sta Level Full Review: th-cam.com/video/SvgDF-bwPpY/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUQc3RhIGxldmVsIHJldmlldw%3D%3D
That’s probably the best demo on this piece of gear I’ve ever seen! Thank you so much for taking the time to do it. Might I suggest a little bit of DS in on your speaking voice when you’re near rating? Some of your siblings are almost like a whistle! Other than that spectacular video!
There are times when I like what the Sta Level does even better, but it can't be as fast as the 176. When the Sta Level is the right fit for the voice, there's nothing quite like it! Check out my review of it here if you haven't yet and hopefully that will give you a better idea of its sound: th-cam.com/video/SvgDF-bwPpY/w-d-xo.html So, for overall versatility I'd go with the 176, particularly if you're dealing with really dynamic vocals. In my 176 review here and in the Sta Level review, I used vocals from Patrick Rock so you can at least get an idea of how they compare on the same vocalist. I hope that's helpful!
Yeah ...I hate to say it but that UA plug in isn't even close....sorry 😬. This is one case where the hardware really doesn't have a plug in option like some others do that are pretty decent. Thank you for checking out the video!
Question: Why the vocal is being compressed with the added reverb effect? For me the whole demo thing about the vocal does not give the impression that this Retro 176 machine is the best vocal compressor. Please, would you want to come back with a dry vocal and redo the demo one more time. Thanks
The song was already mixed so I just soloed examples in context of how they were mixed(hence the effects). The 176 was inserted on the vocal and then the vocal sends went to the reverb on an aux(PCM 70). I think it’s still a good example of what the 176 is doing to the vocal.
I do that when possible in some of my other reviews but it is next to impossible with a compressor where the input knob is also the threshold. You have to increase the volume to get gain reduction.
@@SeawellStudios yes I understand, I meant some pre recorded selected settings and A/B with matched volume to help hearing. Many thanks for answering and wish you the best!
excellent review and music too. the acoustic guitar in particular. retro are making some of the finest tools out there I think. so it's nice to see the appreciation I and others share for them mirrored so authentically here
I really appreciate you watching the review and your kind words! Retro definitely makes gear that just sounds the way I like to hear things. I’m a huge fan of their Sta Level as well. I’d love to check out the revolver sometime.
Yours are some of the best reviews on TH-cam! Thanks, man. Subbed!
Cheers from a fellow pro audio head in Toronto!
Thank you so much! That means a lot to me. Cheers!
Thank you for making this video! Super valuable
I'm so glad you found value in it! Thanks so much for watching and for letting me know it was helpful.
This is how you review audio gear! A brief intro and then multiple samples without talking. The Retro 176 has me seriously looking at it... I was considering the La-2A but its hard to justify spending $5,000 on it knowing there are some cheaper and more versatile units such as the Retro and the CL-1B. The Distressor does not sound good to my ears on vocals and the 1176 is also a bit too limited (no pun intended) for the price. I think the Retro is a good value for the sound and features it offers. Damn it sounds good.
I'm glad you enjoyed the review! I appreciate an La-2a for what it is, but for the money there's no way I'd buy one over a 176. Just my 2 cents :)
Hey man ! Thanks a lot for this review and insight; the best available on youtube. It really helped me make my decision over an 1176 for the home studio. It's versatility ticks so many boxes - and I can't wait to hear the sound of the tubes when it arrives ! Thanks again for your time & dedication. Cheers !!
Man I really appreciate your kind words! I'm not a professional TH-camr so these videos really are just made out of a passion for our industry so I'm so glad you found it helpful. Enjoy your 176! Cheers!
The compressor sounds lovely, but is nobody going to talk about that terrific electric guitar part/sound?
I appreciate you pointing that out! That is my good buddy Matt Sickels. He is amazing! th-cam.com/users/MattSickels
This is the sound Im looking for..Dope video!!
It is soooo good! I'm glad you enjoyed the review!
I have the Universal Audio plugin version, not tried it yet but i see the possibilties of using it on various sources. Thanks for your demo
Thank you very much for this very informative video, finally there is a great video that talks about this great compressor! I would like to see more videos like this one! Best regards!
Thank you so much for your comment! I’m really glad you found the video informative. I hope to review many more compressors of this quality in the future!
Thanks!
Wow, thank you so much!!!
Well done, or.. Done well!
Dude, this is so specific, it's awesome. I especially like the fact that you've got the video divvied up by section/topic - and that you read applicable bits from the manual. THIS was the conversation I wanted to have with SW or VK this week, about this comp! I don't have to now! You rock, bro. Question: Are you regularly using 2 on the stereo bus, also?
Dude..you made my day! Thanks so much for your kind words. I’m really glad you found some useful information from this video! I wish I had a pair to keep on the stereo bus but I only have one which is typically parked on the lead vocal at the moment. I’d love to check out a retro revolver for the stereo buss someday as well 👍🏻
@@SeawellStudios ive been saving up for the perfect thickening compressor - just ordered a 176 from VK today!!! Thanks again, man, I think you might’ve changed my game for the better .
That’s awesome man, congrats! I’d love to hear your thoughts on it once you get it. I hope you love it.
@@SeawellStudios Thanks, man. By the way, if you’re able to share the names of any artists or tracks that you’ve engineered or mixed that prominently feature your 176 (aside from the great ones you shared in this video), I’m sure tons of folks would love to check them out.
Cool, I’m glad to do that! I used the 176 during the mix on all of these vocals:
"Clear" by Mid August
Music: music.apple.com/us/album/clear/1214672777?i=1214672783
Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/79fsuziknd4qSmSFqRhYor?si=iHykl8vATsKpMPj3i9KN3Q
"Lost" by Joey Barnes
Music: music.apple.com/us/album/lost-feat-luna-arcade-tracy-thornton-greensboro-college/1430904553?i=1430904881
Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/6J21m6qvD4Y1nKeu9L2LiD?si=PxG6NcOHQdaqjvNS7g4eTg
"Heavenly Things" by Enter The Worship Circle
Music: music.apple.com/us/album/heavenly-things-feat-ben-pasley-karla-adolphe/1336710042?i=1336710048
Spotify: open.spotify.com/track/5JGZWUlNDO7ArFLmvK7MGD?si=L9j_xaVIQxqExiwor679tA
Loved this review. Very thorough in the best way!!
I really appreciate that, thank you for checking out the video!
Ah man, I'm torn between this and the CL1B! Great video as always!
Thanks Andy! That is a tough choice. I've owned a CL1A and CL1B. Given the choice between Tubetech and the 176 I think it would depend more on if I did primarily pop style vocals or not. It has pretty much become THE sound for that genre. I prefer the tone of the 176 and the overall versatility but I do more rock stuff so that could be why. I don't think you could go wrong either way! Let me know what you end up going with!
Yeah man, I produce and work with a lot of different singers in different styles and want a premium comp to track Vocals, Bass, and Guitars through. It's difficult not being able to demo right now so your videos are super helpfull!
@@PerceptiveAudio I'm so glad you're finding the videos helpful, that is definitely what I hope to accomplish with them!
@@PerceptiveAudio don’t know if you decided or not, but personally I’d go with the CL1B. I just feel like it’s a more versatile tool in the end, it does a lot of things pretty well while the 176 does one thing VERY well. It sounds like you’d probably benefit from the flexibility the CL1B provides.
@@bluehole6019 I went with the 176. Still loving it and love the aggression and snarl when you drive it. My favourite setting is with the attack know pulled out for super fast attack and release times.
Man that thing sounds beautiful.
It is truly special! Beautiful tone and the most versatile vocal compressor I’ve found.
Dude thanks for this video! Iv'e been looking for vocal compressors and I just knew this was it.
You're so welcome! I'm really glad you found it helpful. If you're looking for a vocal compressor, I can't imagine a better one that this 👍🏼
Amazing review! And holy shit this singer is so good. This compressor definitely makes the vocal shine!
Thank you for your kind words! The singer is my friend Patrick Rock, be sure to check out more of his music when you get a chance: www.patrickrockmusic.com/music
Man do you have some go to settings for tracking vocals with this ?
I usually start at 2:1, slowest attack ,fastest release. If the vocal is really dynamic, I will go to 4:1 and slowly speed up the attack to taste. I hope that helps!
@@SeawellStudios dude yes ! Thank you swooped one of these due to your endorsement and mainly based off how your examples sound I know you know what you’re talking about ! Thanks man !
Awesome! I hope you enjoy your 176! A couple more notes...if you find yourself wanting something more transparent, interstage filter off and experimenting with the HPF and asymmetry switch(compressor only reacts to either the positive or negative side of the waveform) can yield some really clean/transparent vocals when that is what you're looking for. On the flip side, if you want some saturation, fastest attack and release will get you there quickly!
I just bought the Lindell Audio LIN76 1176. I love the sound.
Glad to hear it is working out for you! I haven't had a chance to try one yet. Thanks for sharing.
This thing sounds so good! I like the Arturia (and UAD) emulations quite a bit, but real tubes... game over! Cheers, man!
Man… if I could find a plug-in 176 or Sta Level I’d be the happiest guy in the world, but it seems we’re still quite a ways off. Thanks for checking out the video!
@@SeawellStudios I've only used them on drums, but the UAD 175/176 is pretty solid. I don't see myself having $5k for the hardware any time soon lol
I hear ya! Price for hardware is the one negative for sure.
Hi Josh, first of all I would like to thank you for all the stuff you did so far (and hopefully in future) in your channel, like that sooo much!
I saw in the newer vids that the 176 is not in your rack anymore and the RS 124 is back in place.
So you´ve changed it back to Chandler and sold the 176?
Regards
Carsten
Hi Carsten! Thanks so much for your kind words. It truly mean a lot to me that you're found the content here valuable. I am trying my best to get the 176 - Sta Level - RS124 all in here at the same time to do a side by side comparison soon. I love them all equally and to be completely transparent, I only rotate between them depending on the project I'm working on at the time. The eventual goal is to be able to financially hang on to them all at the same time. So, just know if you ever see one shifting out of the rack, it's purely financial and specific to the project I'm working on at the time, not because I've changed how I feel about any of them. I've used all 3 a ton for years now and I can't imagine ever falling out of love with any of them :)
Sounds very smooth and warm I’ve heard the tube tech also neither in real life but on comparison videos dam there both beautiful if you got both or have either your a winner would like to here the retro on vocals
I've owned both and you definitely can't go wrong with either one! They are both world class. I do prefer the retro on vocals in particular when it comes mix time because I prefer the aggressiveness and saturation you can push it into when needed. It isn't as polite as the tube tech I guess is the best way to put it 😁. I love the tube tech as a vocal tracking compressor though! There are two examples in this video of the 176 on vocals(at 11:03 and 21:05) in case you haven't heard those yet. Thanks for checking out the video and for your comment!
Thanks so much for the feedback yes I’d love to have this for a compressor
Great insight on this compressor
Thanks for watching!
Super thorough review man! Dude your studio is looking amazing! Am I seeing some new GIK panels in the back?
Thanks dude! Yeah those are from GIK. Saw some at a really cool studio & had to try them out for myself 😉
Curious about your thoughts between this retro comp, the chandler 670 and the CL1b if you could only pick one for vocals. Also would love to know the mic you used on the vocals and guitars, and what reverb you have going there. 🤘🏻🤘🏻
I'd choose the 176. It's the most versatile of that group. The RS660 can get a truly special vocal sound but it's often not the right fit on voices with a lot of high mid info. CL1B is ok but WAY overrated/overpriced in my opinion. Lead vocal #1 was a Flea 47 and Lead Vocal #2 was a Korby KAT with 67 capsule. Reverb was a Lexicon PCM 70 on Vocal #1 and a PCM 91 on Vocal #2 👍🏼. Acoustic guitar was a blend of a Fat Head II Ribbon mic and a Josephson C42. Electric Guitar was a Divided by 13 RPB 19/37 miced with a AEA R92 and a Sennheiser E609, reverb was the built in spring reverb on the Divided by 13. Thanks for checkin out the video and taking the time to comment, it's much appreciated!
Best demo on TH-cam. Thank you 🙏🏼🙏🏼
I really appreciate that man! Thanks so much for your comment.
@@SeawellStudios I’m looking to pick up a pair of these really soon and this video sealed the deal! Also what mic/preamp were you using on the vocals? Sounds fantastic
@@OwensDrumming awesome! I'd love to pick up a 2nd 176 myself eventually. For the vocals sounds, the 1st vocal example was a Flea 47 into a Shadow Hills preamp on the Iron setting and the 2nd vocal was a Korby KAT with 67M capsule into Shadow Hills(Iron).
I´d love to listen this on the mix bus, have you ever tried that? with those flexible features it looks like it would do an incredible job glueing everything together
I've never had a pair to give that a try but I've heard from others that love it in that application! I'd definitely love to give it a shot at some point. I could definitely see it working well there.
I just found out my favorite recording/mix engineer (Jacquire King) uses the retro 176 and retro 500 pre as his go to vocal chain. Now I’m finding all these other videos praising it. Definitely going to order one before they go on back order. I’ve been waiting to find a CL1b for its fast attack on rap vocals but it seems like this could also handle that well.
I’m a huge fan of Jacquire so that’s cool to hear he’s using the 176. Just my 2 cents but I’d take a 176 over the CL1B if I had to choose. Thanks for checking out the video!
@@SeawellStudios PLEASE Elaborate. I am in a crunch with no money or time to waste on a return so I am hoping I nail this right of the back...I need some hardware work horses. I'm looking at the u87ai vs the Manley Ref to combine with either 1073 vs Shelford and an Apollo x16.... I'm solid on most of the decision making I'm torn on the compressors choices though... My goal is to control dynamic rookies, limited mad rappers, and add the cream and saturation that I can't get from any of my plugin bundles or UAD's "Unison" and Mic emulations. Thanks, Bro, I'm hoping you respond to this sometime soon. I know what "busy" looks like.
@@minkfranchise6389 while I'd prefer a 176, I don't usually mix rap or hip hop...so... Because the TubeTech CL1B is THE sound those clients will be expecting, I would probably go that route if I were you. The TubeTech is cleaner than the 176 and will help rappers cut through better I'd think.
@@SeawellStudios Exactly what I was looking at, but I have never used it... not even the plugin. Do you think the CL1B would be a better choice than the LA2A? I already have an 1176 (used mainly for mixing). Thanks for such a swift answer, BTW.
@@minkfranchise6389 the CL1B is definitely a more modern sound and is much more versatile with the variable attack and release. The LA2A is a classic and there are great modern clones(Stam and AudioScape) but it may be a little slow for faster rappers in particular.
Thank you so much for your videos. Just a question. Are you usually use this gear during recording or after that in the mixed track, so you can explore different characters?
I"m so glad you're enjoying the videos! I use outboard like the 176 during tracking and mixing. For instance, if tracking I usually set the 176 at 2:1, slowest attack, fastest release. In a mix I usually do something more aggressive like 4:1 with a fast attack and release. It's a really versatile unit so you can use it in either tracking and/or mixing with no problem or undesired sonic build up.
@ thanks so much even for the tips ….I am going to buy one beetween retro 176, stalevel or rs124. I am going to use on voices and try on mixbus (L and R separately because they are mono). I think retro 176 is the most versatile unit but i am really attracted from rs124 design
love this thing on bass
Agreed! On bass, when you play around with the sidechain HPF you can get it to saturate it some really cool ways.
This is an ideal review, thank you! No BS, just great examples of what this gear can do. Is it just me or does it have a smoothness to it that kind of separates it from a standard black 1176LN?
Thank you, I really appreciate your kind words and I'm glad you found the review helpful. I think that smoothness you're hearing is exactly why I prefer the 176 to an 1176 on vocals. You can really dig in and compress, without getting all the hard consonants, etc.. It has all the tone of a great vari mu but with the speed that other vari mu comps can't compete with. Still loving it here!
I had a pair of retro 176 fist time I put them on Vocals I thought this is a amazing comp for VOX never tried the clb1 I loved the 176 on the master/mix buss
tracks have a crazy wideness dont use any of very very little amount of compression just the tone add so much to the master /mix chain
I'd love to get another one in here and check them out on the mix buss, I bet it's awesome! Thanks for checking out the video and for sharing your experience with the 176.
Do you have a audio example of it on a stereo bus?
Hey man. Mind if I pick your brains again? Still on a steep learning curve with compressors! How would you say the 176 stacks ups against a 1176? In my mind the 176 is more retro/warm whereas the 1176 is more for more modern and better for pop/rock. Is that correct? And is there a situation you’d pick a 1176 over the 176? Thanks for your advice- it’s very valued and appreciated.
I’m always happy to talk shop man! The 176 and 1176 sound so different that I wish the names weren’t so similar as to not cause confusion.
I would choose a 176 if you’re primarily mixing and want to add a truly special tone(particularly to lead vocals). It’s also a great tracking compressor for singer-songwriter/rock/country.
An 1176 would be my choice for heavier rock, rap/hip hop. You’ll be able to get more aggressive snares, kicks, etc.. All buttons in is a lot of fun for aggressive vocals and drum room mics in particular.
The good news is, you really can’t go wrong with either. For an 1176, the Stam ADG is my favorite so you get 3 flavors of 1176 revisions all in one unit.
I hope that’s helpful! Keep me posted 👍🏻
Nice mix.
Thank you! 👊🏼
Wish you had a stereo pair for a176 buss review.
Me too! I’ll try to make it happen at some point.
Hi thanks for this demo, very useful. Also I'm very impressed for the overall recordings and tracks. I particular I wanted to ask you if you can tell me what are the acoustic and electric guitar in the song. beautiful sound from the source too. If you can tell me what guitars , amps and microphones you used ... thanks! And compliments for your work!!
Thank you so much for your kind words! That really means a lot to me. The tracking set up for acoustic was was m/s with the Josephson C42 being the middle and the Cascade Fat Head II being the sides. You can see a pic here:
realgearonline.com/post/253852
I'll track down the electric guitar notes asap and post those then!
@@SeawellStudios Thank you so much ! If you can recall also guitars model and mic preamp it would be great. Compliments again!
@@musicvideolabs Acoustic was a Taylor 814 and the preamps were Shadow Hills Quad Gama. I make pretty detailed notes on all this during the recording process so I'll track them down and have all the specifics soon!
Every time that attack knob is out I go 👉🏼🤯
Man that thing sounds sweet!
I love it!
Hey dude, Great video!
Is there anything in a 500 series comes close ? Also have you ever compared the 176 to the Elop ? I’m working on female vocals, Kind Regards :)
Thanks! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I haven't used one, but for 500 series I would check out the Retro Doublewide II. I also haven't used an Elop. I think IGS Audio & Wes Audio have some 500 series vari mu units too so that would be another place to check. I'd definitely start with the retro doublewide II based off of the comments I've heard from other users though.
How close would you say I can come to this unit with the 500 series Doublewide currently in my rack?
Great question! Unfortunately, I haven’t had a chance to use a doublewide. I’d love to compare it to the 176 sometime though!
@@SeawellStudios Haven't had a chance to use it much myself yet, but I'll let you know what I discover. Thanks!
@@JohnWehmeyer yeah definitely keep me posted once you're had more time to use it!
So good, yet so subtle and pretty much impossible to justify the $4000 price tag unless you’re a full on pro. While it’s probably not practical I’d love to hear a shootout between this baby and a few other HW and software plugins.
I definitely hear you on the price! Thankfully, they can still be found used occasionally in the $2,600-$3,000 range. I'd love to eventually get a Sta Level and an RS124 back in here...maybe even a BG2 and do a vari mu shootout. One of these days!
@@SeawellStudios Would LOVE to see a shootout with a BG2 involved. The hype on those things is off the charts
@@russcontact I would love to make that happen eventually!
Really nice! Don't know if it would work as well on Rap vocals.
I haven't tried it on any rap vocals. I'd be curious to hear it in that application too.
176 vs sta level?
That's such a tough one and I'd be more than happy with either! If you're tracking vocals or mixing vocals that were recorded without any compression on the way in, then the 176 is going to be the most versatile and always find a way to work. If your vocal already has a little mojo going and you just want to sweeten it to push it over the top then the Sta Level is perfect. A bonus is that the Sta Level is killer on bass as well! I have a full review of both on the channel using the same male vocalist(Patrick Rock) that may help you hear a little more of the similarities and differences. I hope that helps!
176 Full Review: th-cam.com/video/99m7TXcs11o/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUQcmV0cm8gMTc2IHJldmlldw%3D%3D
Sta Level Full Review: th-cam.com/video/SvgDF-bwPpY/w-d-xo.html&pp=ygUQc3RhIGxldmVsIHJldmlldw%3D%3D
That’s probably the best demo on this piece of gear I’ve ever seen! Thank you so much for taking the time to do it. Might I suggest a little bit of DS in on your speaking voice when you’re near rating? Some of your siblings are almost like a whistle! Other than that spectacular video!
What pre amp are going into?
Shadow Hills Quad Gama 👍🏼
Wow!!! What reverb u used on the Vocals? Amazing
Vocal example #1 was a Lexicon PCM 70, Vocal example #2 was a Lexicon PCM 91 :)
@@SeawellStudios that's a plugin?
They are both hardware reverbs.
For vocals, is the STA LEVEL as good ?
There are times when I like what the Sta Level does even better, but it can't be as fast as the 176. When the Sta Level is the right fit for the voice, there's nothing quite like it! Check out my review of it here if you haven't yet and hopefully that will give you a better idea of its sound: th-cam.com/video/SvgDF-bwPpY/w-d-xo.html
So, for overall versatility I'd go with the 176, particularly if you're dealing with really dynamic vocals. In my 176 review here and in the Sta Level review, I used vocals from Patrick Rock so you can at least get an idea of how they compare on the same vocalist. I hope that's helpful!
My buddy has two of these at his studio.
That's awesome...I imagine 2 would sound great on some mastering projects!
@@SeawellStudios I think he does use them for quick mastering but mainly,I think he always has backup gear
Take my money, those sound so nice, I only have the UA plugin…….
Yeah ...I hate to say it but that UA plug in isn't even close....sorry 😬. This is one case where the hardware really doesn't have a plug in option like some others do that are pretty decent. Thank you for checking out the video!
When the attack knob is pushed in you can’t really even hear the compressor working. That’s smoothe.
It really can be transparent! Especially at 2:1. I love it!
Question: Why the vocal is being compressed with the added reverb effect? For me the whole demo thing about the vocal does not give the impression that this Retro 176 machine is the best vocal compressor. Please, would you want to come back with a dry vocal and redo the demo one more time. Thanks
The song was already mixed so I just soloed examples in context of how they were mixed(hence the effects). The 176 was inserted on the vocal and then the vocal sends went to the reverb on an aux(PCM 70). I think it’s still a good example of what the 176 is doing to the vocal.
Pure ∆ ♥️
Thanks, but imho would be better to do an on/off comparison with matched volume, not just fiddle with the knobs
I do that when possible in some of my other reviews but it is next to impossible with a compressor where the input knob is also the threshold. You have to increase the volume to get gain reduction.
@@SeawellStudios yes I understand, I meant some pre recorded selected settings and A/B with matched volume to help hearing. Many thanks for answering and wish you the best!
@@arturovidal5536 I will certainly keep that in mind for future reviews, I appreciate you watching and providing some feedback! Thanks.
I’m afraid to listen to the actual song because the isolated tracks sound so good isolated in mono through this thing
It’s nice. But$3k. Man.
I know man...it's worth it though!
I had one its more of a limiter then a compressor,, its so good you can’t even tell It does anything!! Beautiful unit but a big pass ,,
have you tried the Analog Obsession OSS which emulates this compressor?
I have, along with the UA version. Unfortunately neither one was even in the same ballpark as the hardware.