At the NAMM show in early 2019, Black Lion Audio CEO Nate Bierdeman unveiled a pair of new products which extend the scope of two revered preamp models: the B173 Quad and B12A Quad.
Over the years Black Lion has earned a flawless reputation for designing high performance preamps in affordable price brackets, and the new B173 Quad and B12A Quad models are no exceptions.
Each preamp features 4 channels equipped with switchable pads, 48v of phantom power, and 70dB of stepped gain attenuation. Both models also feature Cinemag transformers in-line with Black Lion’s signature warmth and low noise floor.
Despite a number of matching internals, tonally the B173 Quad and B12A Quad offer very different sounds catering for a wealth of different vocal qualities, different instruments, and different musical genres.
The B173 Quad is very much in-keeping with the Neve 1073-style tradition and features a classic Dark British analogue console sound perfect for vocals and guitars.
Meanwhile the B12A Quad is an affectionate nod to API’s original 312A console channel. The preamp design packs a great deal of punch and any signal is washed with beautifully saturated American warmth as soon as it passes through the circuit.
Check out the SoundOnSound interview with Daniel Larson of Black Lion at the 2018 AES launch:
B173 Quad and B12A Quad will be landing on UK shores in Q2 of 2019. For further details, to arrange a demo, or to become a Black Lion dealer, contact our Pro Audio Sales team.