Black Lion Audio has introduced the Auteur 8DAT, an eight-channel microphone preamplifier and A/D converter designed to expand interface setups via ADAT. The unit combines the company’s signature high-speed transparent preamplification with integrated digital conversion, offering a solution for tracking full drum kits or large ensembles within a single rack unit.
The Auteur 8DAT features eight channels of Chicago-style transformer-coupled preamps. The first two channels include front-panel Hi-Z inputs for direct instrument tracking. Each channel is equipped with a dedicated gain control, polarity flip, 10dB pad, and 48V phantom power. The analog circuit is designed to provide a wide frequency response and low noise floor, while the IC-based input stages ensure rapid transient response.
For digital integration, the unit utilizes high-quality A/D converters capable of resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. Connectivity is handled via dual ADAT Optical outputs, allowing for full eight-channel counts even at higher sample rates (S/MUX). The unit also includes a Word Clock I/O for synchronization with external digital clocking systems.
Key Features
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Eight-Channel Preamplification: High-speed transparent circuitry with Cinemag output transformers.
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Integrated A/D Conversion: Supports sample rates from 44.1kHz up to 192kHz.
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Front-Panel Access: Two Hi-Z instrument inputs for guitars and basses.
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Flexible Connectivity: Dual ADAT outputs and BNC Word Clock I/O.
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Per-Channel Controls: Independent 48V phantom power, phase invert, and 10dB pad.
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Metering: 8-segment LED meters for accurate signal monitoring on every channel.
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Form Factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis with an external power supply to minimize internal noise.
Technical Specifications & Requirements
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Preamp Type: Solid State (Transformer-coupled output).
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Digital Outputs: 2 x ADAT Optical (Toslink).
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Max Sample Rate: 192kHz.
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Analog Inputs: 8 x XLR (Rear), 2 x 1/4″ TS Hi-Z (Front).
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Word Clock: 1 x BNC In, 1 x BNC Out.
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Power: External 24V DC Power Supply.
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Copy Protection: N/A (Hardware).
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Price: $1999.
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