Wes Audio Beta76 rack

Wes Audio Beta76 Rack is a mono, fully analog FET compressor in 1176 style in a 1U rackmount format — the rack version of the acclaimed Beta76, a faithful clone of the UREI 1176LN built with precision-selected audio-grade components. The Beta76 Rack preserves the complete architecture and sonic character of the 1176: fast FET attack (20 µs – 800 µs), ratio options of 4:1 / 8:1 / 12:1 / 20:1 with the "All Buttons In" mode, transformer-balanced input and output, and the characteristic FET coloration with a subtle upper-midrange lift under compression. Unlike the ng500 modules and Starlight units, the Beta76 Rack contains no VST/AU digital integration — it is a pure analog processor without a digital recall or automation layer. Also available in 500-series format (1-slot module).

FET 1176 — transient speed and coloration character

The field-effect transistor as the gain-control element delivers the characteristic transient response speed unavailable in VCA and optical compressors: a 20-microsecond attack allows hard peak control on drums, guitars, and vocals without click artifacts. Ratio: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1, and the "All Buttons In" mode — the classic 1176 configuration where pressing all ratio buttons simultaneously creates a unique, aggressive compression character with low-end boost and a shortened attack transient. Attack: 20 µs – 800 µs, Release: 50 ms – 1.1 s, both with continuous adjustment. Input (threshold/input gain) and Output (makeup gain) controls on the front panel. VU meter with a switchable indication mode (output / GR). Transformer-balanced input and output provide the analog coloration and characteristic tone of the 1176. An IN/OUT bypass switch. No stereo link — the Beta76 Rack is a mono processor without pairing functionality built in.

Build quality and position in the Wes Audio line

The Beta76 Rack is a classic analog processor with no digital layer — no VST/AU plug-ins, no DAW automation, no digital recall. This makes it a straightforward tool for engineers who prefer traditional hardware operation without DAW integration. Construction is based on carefully selected audio-grade components, high-quality audio transformers, and a precisely calibrated FET circuit. The 1U rack format allows mounting in a standard 19" rack without requiring a 500-series enclosure. The Beta76 Rack is also available as a 500-series module (1-slot) — an alternative for 500-series-based setups; the ng500 _MIMAS module (2-slot) is the advanced version with full digital integration. Two Beta76 Rack units can be linked via an external cable for stereo compression.

KEY FEATURES

• Mono FET compressor 1176 style, 1U rack format — no digital integration
• Ratio: 4:1 / 8:1 / 12:1 / 20:1 + "All Buttons In" mode
• Attack: 20 µs – 800 µs (continuous adjustment)
• Release: 50 ms – 1.1 s (continuous adjustment)
• Controls: Input (threshold) and Output (makeup gain)
• "All Buttons In" mode: aggressive compression with low-end boost and shortened transient
• Transformer-balanced input and output — analog harmonic coloration
• VU meter: output / GR, switchable
• IN/OUT bypass switch
• Pure analog — no VST/AU, no DAW automation, no digital recall
• Stereo link via external cable (when using two units)
• Format: 1U rack 19"
• Also available as 500-series module (1-slot)

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: mono FET compressor 1176 style, 1U rack
• Signal path: fully analog, FET
• Ratio: 4:1 / 8:1 / 12:1 / 20:1 + "All Buttons In"
• Attack: 20 µs – 800 µs (continuous)
• Release: 50 ms – 1.1 s (continuous)
• Controls: Input, Output
• Transformer: transformer-balanced input and output
• VU meter: output / GR, switchable
• Bypass: IN/OUT switch
• Digital integration: none
• Stereo link: external cable (optional when using two units)
• I/O: balanced XLR or TRS Jack
• Power: internal, 230/115V AC
• Format: 1U rack 19"