Founding and Early Years (1960s):
Universal Recording Electronics Industries, better known as UREI, was founded by Bill Putnam Sr. in 1967. Putnam, a pioneering audio engineer and entrepreneur, had previously founded Universal Audio in 1958. He was instrumental in developing numerous audio recording technologies and equipment, many of which became industry standards.

Key Products and Innovations:
– 1176LN Limiting Amplifier (1967):
Introduced shortly after the company’s founding, the 1176LN became famous for its distinctive and musical compression characteristics, using FET technology for fast attack times. It quickly became a studio staple for its versatility and unique sound.
– LA-3A Leveling Amplifier (1969):
The LA-3A, a solid-state version of the earlier LA-2A tube leveling amplifier, combined optical attenuation with solid-state circuitry, offering a different tonal quality and becoming another industry favorite.

Expansion and Innovation (1970s – 1980s):
– Graphic Equalizers and Audio Tools:
UREI expanded its product line to include graphic equalizers, crossovers, and other audio processing tools, such as the UREI 565 filter set and 535 graphic equalizer.
– Time-Aligned Monitors:
In collaboration with Ed Long, UREI developed Time-Aligned monitor speakers, including the UREI 813, which became popular for their accurate sound reproduction.

Acquisition by JBL (1980s):
In the early 1980s, UREI was acquired by JBL Professional, a division of Harman International Industries. Despite the brand fading under JBL’s ownership, many UREI products remained in production and use in professional audio environments.

Legacy and Modern Use:
Even though UREI as a brand is no longer active, its legacy lives on through classic products like the 1176LN and LA-3A compressors, which have been reissued and emulated by Universal Audio and other manufacturers. These reissues and plugins ensure that the distinctive UREI sound continues to be used in modern recording and mixing contexts.

Reissues and Emulations:
Universal Audio has reissued hardware versions and developed software emulations of classic UREI gear, allowing the legendary UREI sound to remain relevant in today’s audio industry.

UREI’s contributions to audio engineering have left a lasting impact, with many of its products still revered for their sonic qualities and reliability, cementing its place in the history of professional audio equipment.