Behringer has launched the 676, a vacuum tube preamplifier and FET-style compressor, inspired by the 6176 Vintage Channel Strip from Universal Audio.
Though released in 2004, it’s still available on the market today. The original brought together recreations of the preamp from Bill Putnam Sr.’s classic 610 mixing console and the 1176 compressor in one unit. It was also recreated by the brand as a plugin last year.
Behringer says the original 6176 “served as the secret sauce” for some of the most well-known artists and recording engineers, such as Norah Jones, John Mayer, and even producers like Tony Visconti. The budget brand says it wants to keep the “classic alive” with its 676, offering custom-built Midas transformers, plus premium 12AX7/ECC83S and 12AT7/6072 tubes for a “warm and rich sound”.
The preamp section of the 676 hosts controls for input gain, impedance, polarity, high or low frequency shelf, as well as high or low boost/cut. It can also be operated independently of the compressor due to a Join/Split switch. The FET compressor part offers an attack time of 20 to 800 microseconds, an adjustable release time from 50 to 1100 milliseconds, and a vintage-style meter to display gain reduction and output levels.
Take a closer look below:
Other recent releases from Behringer include the RD-78 – inspired by the “granddaddy to all drum machines”, the Roland CR-78 – and the Chorus Symphony pedal, which emulates the Boss CE-1 Chorus Ensemble.
Behringer’s gear remakes have been the topic of much debate over the years, and while some creatives appreciate the brand’s budget friendly versions of gear they feel priced out of, others have questioned the ethics of its practice – including the likes of Roger Linn, who wrote an essay in light of Behringer’s LM Drum.
Behringer previously addressed backlash on its Facebook page. In January, the company wrote, “IP refers to legally protected rights over creations, such as trademarks or patents. Unless these protections are registered, the content is typically in the public domain and free to use.
“This system is intentional. Society thrives on progress, and limiting rights to a few individuals or companies would stifle creativity. Imagine if only one company could produce cars or guitars – innovation would stall, and access would be restricted.” It further added, “If companies want to protect their IP, they must file for trademarks, patents, or other legal measures.”
The Behringer 676 is priced at $469. Find out more or locate a dealer via the official Behringer website.
