Black Lion Audio Launches Auteur Quad2, a Four-Channel Mic Preamp with Hybrid “Chicago-Style” Tone

Black Lion Audio has announced the release of the Auteur Quad2, a four-channel rack-mount microphone preamp designed to deliver its signature sound across a higher channel count for modern studio workflows. This new unit builds on the company's well-regarded Auteur design, combining a clean front end with a colorful transformer-coupled output stage. A Hybrid Design for Clarity and Color The Auteur series preamps are built around a hybrid design that pairs a fast, transparent input stage, often likened to classic American console preamps, with an output section featuring character-rich Cinemag transformers, a tone more commonly associated with British console designs. This unique blend is what the company dubs its 'Chicago-style' preamp topology. The goal is a circuit that can capture fast transients with detail, making it suitable for sources like drums and percussion, while also having the option to dial in some analog heft and color by pushing the gain. The Auteur Quad2 embodies what we call Chicago-style preamp design. It's a uniquely Black Lion take on classic American and British preamp topologies. You get the transient response of an American console preamp, plus the tonal weight and saturation of a vintage British design — on four channels, with modern features, and at a price that defies comparison. Preston Whiting, VP of Operations at Black Lion Audio. Key Features and Upgrades The Auteur Quad2 functions as a studio workhorse, providing essential features for tracking and mixing. Each of the four channels includes independent controls for +48V phantom power, polarity reverse, and a -10 dB pad. For added flexibility, the front panel includes 1/4' inputs that now accept both instrument and line-level signals, and the rear panel offers both XLR and TRS outputs for routing options. This second-generation model also introduces several significant improvements over the original Auteur Quad: More Gain: The Quad2 now features 66 dB of gain, which is more than its predecessor and sufficient to handle power-hungry microphones, including low-output ribbon and dynamic mics. Analog VU Meters: All four channels now feature all-new analog VU meters for visual level monitoring. Flexible Front-Panel Inputs: The front-panel 1/4' inputs now accommodate both instrument and line-level signals across all four channels. The unit is housed in a rugged 1U chassis made from brushed black aluminum and features premium internal components, including US-made Cinemag transformers and high-quality Nichicon and Vishay capacitors, selected for durability and low noise. Pricing and Availability The Auteur Quad2 is expected to begin shipping in October 2025 through Black Lion Audio's global network of dealers and distributors. The manufacturer's suggested retail price (MAP) is $899.00 USD in the US, and the suggested selling price (SSP) in the EU is €1,199.00 EUR (including 19% VAT). {PRODUCT-HEADER-33524-auteurquad2}. YouTube/LL-Oq2UKrew Read More