Black Lion Audio Auteur 500 Preamp

The Black Lion Audio Auteur Preamp is a design that's somewhat unique in its approach. Being admirers of the fully balanced transformer-less circuits found in highly acclaimed recording consoles, we chose to use a similar topology. We began with a high speed input stage that would pick up lots of detail and nuance, and then followed it with a high current output stage. Circuit headroom is plentiful, and the input stage is very difficult to clip. Because of its fully balanced design, it can handle input signals as large as +15dB with ease.

We also like classic transformer-based designs because of the characteristic they lend to the audio signal. Because of this, we added a 600 ohm M-6 silicon steel output transformer to give the audio a thick quality that's reminiscent of a prized vintage preamp. It's the best of both worlds in our opinion. The preamp is single channel and features phase, +48vdc phantom power, and 10dB output signal pad.

Like all of the other models in our Micro Series, the elements of chassis and presentation are extremely simple, with a minimum of the fluff and promotion that tends to drive up the cost of equipment in our industry. If you're looking for eye candy and name recognition to dominate your equipment list, this probably isn't the preamp for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for the sort of performance normally associated with high-end designs but need to acquire it at a modest price, our mic preamp will make a wise and affordable investment for your home or project studio.

Specifications:

• Channels: One
• Gain: 0-66dB
• THD+Noise: -110dB @ 1 kHz
• Headroom: 30dB
• Input impedance: 8k
• Output impedance: 600 ohms