COMPARISON - Universal Audio UA1176 Collection | 1176AE vs. Rev A vs. Rev E | Which one sounds best?

Hello there, here is another comparision for you. This time are competing against each other: UA 1176 Rev A “Bluestripe”, 1176 AE, 1176 Rev E “Blackface” Can you hear the difference? Which one is your favorite?
Universal Audio UA1176 Classic Limiter Collection - Plug-in Comparison (no talking).
Link to the Plugins: www.uaudio.de/...
Manufactures description:
The definitive collection of the world’s most famous compressors.
The original Universal Audio 1176 was designed by UA founder M.T. “Bill” Putnam, and represented a major breakthrough in limiter technology. The first compressor featuring solid‑state circuitry and ultra-fast 20 microsecond FET gain reduction, the 1176 is an easy‑to‑use “desert island” compressor that has lent its character and punch to some of the greatest recordings in history.
Upon its release in 2001, UA’s first 1176 plug‑in single‑handedly launched our UAD platform. Extensive end‑to‑end circuit modeling in 2013 captured even more sonic nuance. Now with updated graphics and additional controls, the 1176 Classic Limiter Collection continues its legacy of analog modeling excellence.
A Triple Threat
The 1176 Classic Limiter Plug-In Collection provides three distinct 1176 revisions, representing over 40 years of design iterations to the original 1176. The Rev A “Bluestripe” represents the original Putnam FET limiter design, complete with its higher distortion and unique FET gain amplifier characteristics. The Rev E “Blackface” covers the early '70s Brad Plunkett “LN” (Low Noise) era, with variations including a more linear compression response, transistor gain amplification, and a change to the program dependence. The 1176AE provides UA’s rare 1176 40th Anniversary Edition, complete with exclusive mods - including its lower 2:1 compression ratio.
Classic Compression, Quickly
Using an 1176 is a study in simplicity. Input simultaneously sets compression threshold and the level of the signal entering the 1176; Output sets the final signal level. Attack sets the time it takes the 1176 to respond to incoming signal, while Release sets the time it takes the 1176 to return to its initial level. The VU meter displays the amount of gain reduction (GR) or output level (+4/+8).
Ratio Buttons for Iconic Color
The four Ratio buttons determine the degree of gain reduction - lower ratios for compression, higher ratios for limiting. Disengaging all Ratio buttons disables compression, while continuing to pass signal through the 1176 circuitry, adding unmistakable color. At the request of users, “Multi-Button” combinations possible with the hardware are now attainable in the plug-in - including the famous “All Button” sound.
Added Features for Modern Workflows
Exclusive plug‑in only features lend modern workflows to this classic processor collection. Get quick parallel processing on bass and kick drums with Dry/Wet mix controls, or use the custom Sidechain Filter to tame low‑frequency pumping. Plus, enhanced graphics with improved VU metering bring iconic FET compression into a new age.
‪@UniversalAudio‬
0:06 Drums
2:19 Bass
4:33 Vocals
6:45 Guitar
#plugins #universalaudio #1176 #compressors #uad

[@pokemonthemedance]

For these tracks only in terms of sound, in isolation in this way with these exact settings, I liked: - Rev E for drums (warmer, rounder, punchy but not too much) - Rev A for bass (midrange presence, more attitude, nice pluck) - AE for vocals (clear, smooth, nice tone, sibilance pleasant) - AE for guitar (if it should be in front of mix) or Rev E (if guitar should be more in the back of mix).

[@ColorfulTonesStudio]

Thank you very much for your detailed comment! I really appreciate it.

[@gordonsword5]

Personally, I think Rev E is suitable for drum.