Black Lion Audio B172A FET/Optical Compressor

Black Lion Audio B172A FET/Optical Compressor Overview
The Black Lion Audio B172A FET/Optical Compressor brings together two of the most iconic compression circuits in audio history: the “76” FET limiter and the “2A” tube optical compressor. Packed into a single, easy-to-use 2RU chassis, the B172A offers the versatility of both analog compression styles, giving you everything from transparent compression to heavy, gritty sounds. Whether you need subtle dynamic control or a more aggressive, squashed tone, the B172A is built to handle it all, providing exceptional value and sonic quality.

Two Legendary Compression Circuits in One Unit
What sets the Black Lion Audio B172A apart from other compressors is its ability to combine two distinct compression types in a single unit. The “76” style FET compressor delivers fast and punchy compression, often used to control peaks and add clarity, while the “2A” tube optical compressor provides smooth, musical compression with a more transparent character. Whether used separately or in series, these two classic circuits offer unmatched versatility, giving you a broad range of tonal options for any mix.

Flexible Signal Routing for Maximum Control
The B172A includes an intuitive A/B-B/A signal routing switch, allowing you to quickly toggle between the 76 FET and 2A optical circuits or combine them in any order. This flexible routing gives you the power to shape your sound in the way that best suits your recording or mixing needs. The dual mono link feature lets you route the signal through each circuit independently or in a linked stereo configuration, providing unmatched control over your dynamic processing. Whether you prefer to use them separately or together, the B172A adapts to your workflow seamlessly.

Custom Components for Superior Sound Quality
Black Lion Audio’s expertise in modifying and designing audio gear is evident in the B172A’s high-quality components. The unit features a custom-designed T4BLA opto element, engineered to be the finest T4B opto cell available today. To complement the opto element, the B172A uses a Cinemag input transformer for the 2A side and Chicago-wound output transformers for both the 76 and 2A circuits. The result is a transparent, low-distortion signal path with rich, musical compression that’s perfect for a wide variety of audio sources.

Robust Build Quality with High-End Components
The B172A features a rugged 2RU chassis that provides durability and longevity in any studio setting. Every component, from the power decoupling capacitors to the signal path elements, has been selected for its high quality. The inclusion of high-grade capacitors ensures that your audio signals remain pristine and free of unwanted noise, while the transformer-based design guarantees warmth and clarity. The unit’s thoughtful design means it can stand up to the demands of daily studio use while delivering exceptional sound quality at an affordable price.

Why Choose the Black Lion Audio B172A FET/Optical Compressor?
If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality compressor with a broad range of tonal possibilities, the Black Lion Audio B172A FET/Optical Compressor is an excellent choice. Offering the best of both worlds with its FET and optical compression circuits, the B172A gives you access to classic compression sounds that are both transparent and powerful. Its flexible routing options and high-end components make it a must-have tool for any professional audio engineer or producer looking to refine their mixes.