Black Lion Audio B172A

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Black Lion Audio B172A

Black Lion Audio

B172A

4.8 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 494039
Model: B172A
Price: $1,867.80

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The B172A is a seriously good-sounding compressor, aiming for that vintage FET vibe with a modern twist. It’s a fantastic option for tracking vocals, guitars, or bass where you want a punchy, character-rich sound—especially if you're chasing that LA-2A warmth but need more dynamic control. It’s a focused tool, so not a do-everything solution, but it excels at what it does.

Product Description

  • Black Lion Audio B172A
  • Mono Compressor
  • Hybrid compressor with FET circuit and T4BLA optocoupler
  • FET compressor from the Seventeen based on a legendary model
  • Compressor order can be selected or dual mono mode
  • Cinemag LA-2A input transformer
  • Optimised circuit with new output transformer
  • Infinitely variable attack and release
  • Link connection for coupling two devices for stereo operation
  • Frequency range: 15 Hz - 20 kHz
  • +/- 1 dB
  • THD + N: 0.3%
  • Inputs: 2x XLR (balanced)
  • 2x jack (balanced)
  • Outputs: 2x XLR (balanced)
  • 2x jack (balanced)
  • Link: 2x Jack (unbalanced)
  • Power supply: 115/230 VAC internal
  • Height: 2 U
  • Width: 19"
  • Depth: 250 mm
  • Weight: 8 kg
PROS
  • • Cinemag input transformer delivers a warm, classic LA-2A vibe
  • • T4BLA optocoupler adds smooth, musical gain reduction
  • • FET circuit provides punch and aggressive character when needed
  • • Flexible attack/release shaping for precise dynamic control
CONS
  • • Relatively high-end price point makes it a significant investment
  • • Limited versatility compared to more complex, multi-mode compressors
  • • The 2U height may pose rack space challenges for some users

Product Video

Key Features

Type Mono Compressor
Channels 1
Controls Infinitely variable attack/release, Compressor Order/Dual Mono Mode
Connections 2x XLR (balanced), 2x jack (balanced) inputs, 2x XLR (balanced), 2x jack (balanced) outputs, 2x Jack (unbalanced) Link
Metering LED Metering (unspecified details)
Weight 8 kg

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Frequently Asked Questions

It captures the LA-2A’s warmth thanks to the Cinemag transformer, but the B172A offers faster attack and release times and a FET circuit for more aggressive compression.
Yes, it alters the signal path, impacting the perceived compression and harmonic saturation – experiment to see which order suits your source best.
The link connection allows you to tie the gain reduction of two B172As together for stereo compression, ensuring both channels react identically.

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