Overview

The Black Lion Audio Auteur MKII 500 Series microphone preamp circuit combines an ultra-high-speed front end and a transformer-coupled output stage. The combination, which we've seen in Black Lion before, offers lots of nuance and detail, well-balanced with a robust assertiveness and vintage flavor that holds up in a blend. The Auteur MKII 500 has 67dB of gain on tap, so you can feel free to use your favorite ribbon mics on quieter sources. A DI input is provided for direct injection of electric guitars, bass, keyboards and the like. Phantom power, polarity inversion and a 13dB pad round out the feature set. We really like the Black Lion Auteur MKII 500. It's versatile and sounds great—and it's a solid value. Place one or two of them in the 500 Series rack; we think you'll be impressed.

Excellent value in a 500 series preamp

Since 2006, Black Lion Audio has been helping musicians and engineers improve the sound of their gear, and they've built a solid reputation for getting world-class sound from modestly priced gear. As a team that got its start making acclaimed mods, Black Lion, unsurprisingly, produces innovative audio gear of its own design that consistently outperforms its price range. The Auteur MKII 500 is essentially a single-channel version of the company's 500 series desktop model — which is itself a second-generation iteration of its well-received predecessor. As such, the Auteur MKII 500 features a revamped gain stage that offers greater gain, lower noise and distortion, and a more extended frequency response than the original design. Drums sound round and energetic through the Auteur MKII 500. Vocals come across beautifully with a silky shine. Guitars soar like flaming phoenixes. No matter what the source, the Black Lion Auteur MKII 500 works like a pro.

Characteristics

• Single space 500 series module; requires compatible 500 series rack;
• 1-channel preamplifier with ultra-high-speed input stage and Edcor output transformer;
• Bandwidth (1kHz, 600 ohm unbalanced source, unweighted): 10Hz–30kHz;
• Gain range: +16dB to +67dB;
• Phantom power;
• Polarity reverse switch;
• 13dB pads;
• DI input (maximum input level: +18dBu);
• The Hi-Z switch selects the input source; activated: DI connector on front panel; disengaged: XLR rack input.

Specifications

• Preamplifier type: 500 series solid state;
• Number of channels: 1;
• Phantom power: yes;
• Pads: -13dB;
• Polarity switch: yes;
• Analog inputs: 1 x 1/4 in. (Hi-Z);
• Module slot size: single;
• Power usage: ±16 VDC, 60 mA.