Black Lion Audio B12A Quad
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Black Lion Audio
B12A Quad
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The B12A Quad is a seriously good-sounding preamp, nailing that classic 312 vibe. The Cinemag transformers add a real depth and richness – it’s a fantastic all-rounder for vocals, drums, and guitars, particularly if you’re chasing a vintage warmth. This is a sweet upgrade for project studios and working professionals alike.
Product Description
- Black Lion Audio B12A Quad
- 4-Channel Preamplifier
- Classic 312A preamp design with 70 dB gain
- All-rounder for detailed recordings
- e.g. Vocals
- drums
- guitar etc.
- Very low-noise signal path
- Cinemag transformers in the inputs and outputs
- Channels 1 and 2 with additional DI input
- Switchable 48 V phantom power
- phase reversal and 18 dB pad (mic-in) per channel
- Max. Input level Mic In: +1 dBu / DI In: +18 dBu
- Frequency range: 10 Hz - 30000 Hz
- Gain Mic In: 26 to 70 dB / DI In: +10 to 53 dB
- THD + N Mic In: 0.01% / DI In: 0.115% (+36 dB gain
- +4 dBu output)
- Equivalent input noise Mic In: -120 dBu / DI In: -94 dBu
- Input impedance Mic In: 200 Ohm / DI In: 1.1 MOhm (unbalanced)
- Max. Output level: +26 dBu
- Output impedance: 600 ohms
- 4 Inputs: XLR (balanced)
- 2 Inputs: jack (unbalanced)
- 4 Inputs: XLR and jack (balanced)
- External power supply
- Height: 1 U
- Width: 19"
- Depth: 178 mm
- Weight: 4.5 kg
PROS
- • Cinemag transformers deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone.
- • DI inputs on channels 1 & 2 offer recording flexibility.
- • Extremely low noise floor preserves subtle sonic details.
- • Robust build quality inspires confidence and longevity.
CONS
- • The unbalanced jack inputs limit true stereo summing capabilities.
- • The 600-ohm output impedance may require impedance matching.
- • Premium-priced, potentially a barrier for budget-conscious studios.
Product Video
Key Features
Channels
4
Preamp Type
312A-inspired
Gain Range
26-70 dB (Mic), 10-53 dB (DI)
Phantom Power
48V
Connections
4 XLR (balanced), 2 x 1/4 in jack (unbalanced)
Weight
Approximately 12 lbs
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Frequently Asked Questions
It captures the essence of the 312A sound with modern components and lower noise; it’s a very credible recreation, but lacks some of the quirks of truly aged vintage units.
Yes, the DI input handles higher signal levels, but be mindful of the gain structure to avoid clipping; the 18 dB pad on the mic preamp can help manage very hot signals.
While you can link channels, the unbalanced jack inputs limit true stereo summing; for critical stereo tracking, XLR connections are recommended.
