Black Lion B173 MKII
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Manufacturer Information
Black Lion
https://www.blacklionaudio.com
info@blacklionaudio.com
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Safety manager:
Hyperactive Audiotechnik GmbH
Email: info@hyperactive.de
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A "vintage" approach in a modern and compact format
This mono preamplifier adopts the key elements of the 1073 topology, a studio standard renowned for its grain and presence in the mix. The idea is simple: to recapture a "console" type sonic signature in a half-rack chassis that is easy to integrate on a desk, in a flight case, or directly in a rack thanks to the 1U height and 9.5" width. The Cinemag transformers on input and output contribute to this sonic aesthetic by providing a generous response and dynamics that remain musical when pushing the gain.
Who is it for, and what studio uses?
This 1-channel preamp is aimed at demanding home studios as well as professional setups seeking a characterful preamplification channel for important recordings: lead vocals, rap, spoken word, acoustic guitar, overheads, room mics, or snare drum. With 70 dB of gain, it is also well suited for dynamic and ribbon microphones (with appropriate precautions), while offering +48 V phantom power for condenser microphones. The front-panel HI-Z input also makes it an excellent choice for recording bass or guitar directly, before amp simulation or reamping.
Key features: control, headroom, and easy integration
Stepped gain and variable output: level control without compromise
The stepped gain control allows for fast and precise work: each position is reproducible, convenient for recalling settings in a new session. The variable output control adds real flexibility: you can push the gain stage to achieve more density and grain, then adjust the output level to properly drive your converter or audio interface, avoiding digital clipping.
Studio connectivity and front-panel instrument input
With a balanced XLR input for microphones and an unbalanced jack input, this preamp covers essential recording needs. The balanced jack output facilitates integration into a recording chain (audio interface, patchbay, hardware compressor) while minimizing noise over reasonable cable lengths. The front-panel HI-Z input is designed to plug in an instrument directly without an external DI box, maintaining a natural response and precise attack.
Technical specifications
| Number of channels | 1 |
| Rack unit | 1 |
| Inputs | 1 x XLR (balanced), 1 x jack (unbalanced) |
| Output | 1 x jack (balanced) |
| Height | 1U |
| Width | 9.5" (rack-mountable) |
| Weight | 1.4 kg |
Questions frequently asked
Is the Black Lion B173 MKII suitable for dynamic and ribbon microphones?
With 70 dB of gain, this preamplifier can be used with dynamic and ribbon microphones. Standard precautions for ribbon microphones should still be observed.
What connectivity is available on this mono preamp?
The mic input uses a balanced XLR connector, while the instrument input is an unbalanced jack. The output is provided by a balanced jack for connection to an interface, patch bay, or external processor.
Can a bass guitar be plugged directly into the front input?
The front HI-Z input allows direct connection of a guitar or bass without an external DI box.
How to achieve more character without saturating the converter?
The stepped gain control allows the preamp stage to be driven up to 70 dB with reproducible settings. A variable output control then adjusts the level sent to the converter. Cinemag input and output transformers contribute to the signature inspired by 1073 topologies.
Can the 9.5-inch format be rack-mounted?
The 9.5-inch half-rack chassis occupies 1U of rack height and allows rack mounting. Its weight is 1.4 kg.
