Black Lion Audio has announced Auteur 8DAT, an eight-channel mic preamp, ultra-stable word clock and an eight-channel Adat expander for use with Adat-equipped recording hardware.
Auteur 8DAT delivers eight channels of Auteur design preamps in a single unit, making it easy to track multiple sources simultaneously while giving each channel preamp ‘colour’.
Auteur preamps’ hybrid design features a fast, transparent IC-based front-end and Cinemag output transformers that add weight and colour when pushed. The result is a preamp capable of delivering modern transient response at conservative gain levels while offering the saturation associated with classic British designs when driven.
Auteur 8DAT is designed to integrate into modern hybrid studios. Users can route signals through analogue XLR outputs to a console or take advantage of Adat connectivity to add eight channels of high-quality preamps directly to an existing audio interface. Each channel includes independent phantom power, polarity reverse, and a -10dB pad, along with front-panel quarter-inch inputs switchable between DI and line-level operation.
For outboard processing, the unit also features eight insert points via DB25 connectors. These can be switched directly from the front panel for A/B comparison with external processing when monitoring through the Adat outputs. The sends can also function as mults, enabling parallel processing chains or mid-side workflows.
Auteur 8DAT doubles as a word clock capable of synchronising an full recording rig. Its Macro-MMC technology ensures ultra-stable synchronisation and extremely low jitter, helping preserve transient clarity and stereo imaging. Engineers can confidently clock their whole system from the Auteur 8DAT via BNC connections — or sync the unit to an external clock.
Black Lion Audio has equipped the Auteur 8DAT with premium components throughout its signal path. High-end Vishay, Wima and Nichicon capacitors, thin-film resistors, and optimised gain staging ensure low noise and maximum signal integrity. The converters are derived from the company’s Revolution interfaces, delivering detailed digital capture at sample rates up to 192kHz.
Built to withstand both studio and live environments, the Auteur 8DAT features a rugged chassis with a black-anodised aluminium faceplate for a refined, professional appearance. With eight channels of versatile preamps, integrated clocking, and premium conversion, the Auteur 8DAT represents a powerful centrepiece for expanding modern recording systems.
Key features:
- 8-channel Auteur preamp/Word Clock with Adat.
- Eight Cinemag transformer-equipped Auteur preamps.
- Eight front-mounted Hi-Z/Line inputs for line-level devices.
- Eight send/returns over DB25 allow connection of hardware processing.
- Independent +48V, polarity, -10dB pad and insert control per input.
- Internal clocking featuring Macro-MMC technology with BNC I/O.
- Low noise Vishay, Nichicon,and Wima capacitors, and ICs.
- All inputs and outputs fully decoupled and balanced.
The Auteur 8DAT will ship through Black Lion Audio’s global dealer network.