The standard 4:1 rocks on vocals and bass. It may sound odd, but the limited, yet classic options for attack, release, sidechain filter and ratio will make this module easier to use. If you're looking for 1176-style compression, there is no more affordable option than Lindell's 7X500. The ultra clean signal path loaded with Nichicon's Hi-Fi FW-series capacitors make up for that and create and great combination with the saturation of the Edcor transformer. These are particularly great on vocals, bass and acoustic guitar. Generally speaking, Edcor transformers are typically gooey and lack clarity. Overall, the Auteur is fairly clean, but gets a little extra weight from the Edcor output transformer.

BLA's Auteur will work great with super quiet mics like ribbons or the SM7B. Many preamps for double that price struggle with such a feat. The Auteur MKII made its way to fame in professional and project studios alike for the incredibly quality at such an affordable price.įor starters, it's hard to argue with 67dB of gain at only $199. Eventually, they started making their own gear. Black Lion Audio Auteur MKII - $199īlack Lion Audio made a name for themselves by modding pro-sumer recording gear into top-shelf pieces that belong in any studio. If you've ever used HEAT in Pro Tools, this will be a very familiar layout.Įven though this preamp is a few years old, it still holds up and is one of the most versatile pres out there. Turn to the right, and you get 3rd order harmonics. Turning the knob further left adds 2nd order harmonics. Flip in that VHD switch and you can get just that.

But sometimes, you need some fatness or warmth. Of course, there is nothing bad about a clean preamp. Where this preamp really shines is the Drive knob. Unlike many 500-series modules, the VHD has a variable high pass filter up to 500Hz.

In its standard form, the VHD Mic Pre delivers squeaky clean recordings similar to that of SSL's SuperAnalogue preamps. The VHD Mic Pre is one of the most versatile preamps you can find. This article will highlight the best 500-series modules in 2020. As the new owner of a 500-series rack, I've been keeping a close eye on what's available in the modular format.

Diy 500 series preamp reviews