FET and optical compression in the same unit

You want everything. We understand. That's what's so attractive about the Black Lion Audio B172A. Two classics in one chassis, the B172A combines BLA's Seventeen version of the legendary “76” FET limiter with its version of the renowned “2A” tube optical compressor. Which means this dynamic duo can deliver any compression flavor, from smooth and clear to crushed and dirty — and everything in between. Most world-class studios have both original classic units in their external racks. Now you can too — without breaking the bank.

Incredible sound and versatility

Having struck gold with their Seventeen, it wasn't unexpected that the hot-modders at Black Lion Audio would release a classic tube compressor. But putting both circuits in the same unit is a stroke of genius. Whether you use the FET and opto separately — or in series, where one captures the audio peaks and the other provides the heavy compression — the Black Lion Audio B172A will surprise you with its incredible sound and versatility. The B172A's Dual Mono Link makes it easy to route your signal through circuits 17 and 2A in any order.

The best opto cell in the business

The Seventeen's success led Black Lion Audio to pair its proven FET circuit with an equally effective optical design. The challenge was met with a custom T4B optocell, the T4BLA. BLA's extensive experience in modifications gave the designers the patience and mindset needed to tweak the optical element until it was perfect. With an emphasis on meticulous detail, the T4BLA is designed to be the finest T4B optical element available today.

Big iron

A meticulous effort was made to choose the best transformers needed for each circuit. Specified with a Cinemag input transformer on the 2A side, BLA's own Chicago-wound output transformers on both circuits, high-quality signal path and decoupling capacitors, the B172A offers ultra-convenient access to a pair of classic dynamics processors while providing a valuable signal processing tool never before available in a single chassis.

Flexibility is the key

From its initial concept, flexibility was the main objective of the B172A project. While many engineers agree on the sonic benefits of using both types of compression, the routing order is subject to debate. The AB-BA switch on the B172A allows for fast internal signal routing, so you can instantly compare between the two. The two compressors can also be used independently of each other by setting the AB-BA switch to the center position (power off). Each circuit also has a stereo link, allowing you to connect a pair of B172A units in stereo.

Characteristics

• 76- (Seventeen) and 2A style compression in a single 2RU chassis;
• A/B, B/A and independent signal routing switchable on the front panel;
• Cinemag 2A input transformer;
• Chicago-wound 76 and 2A output transformers;
• Custom-designed Black Lion Audio T4B optical element;
• High quality signal path and power decoupling capacitors;
• Pluggable stereo.

Specifications

• Type: FET/optical compressor;
• Number of channels: stereo, dual mono link;
• Controls: Ratio, Attack, Release, Peak Reduction;
• Ratio: 4:1 to 20:1;
• Inputs: 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4 in;
• Outputs: 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4 in;
• Other I/O: 2 x 1/4 in. (connection);
• Additional features: A/B or B/A signal routing;
• Rack spaces: 2U;
• Power source: standard IEC AC cable.