} Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid FET and Optical Compressor — Pro Audio Reserve
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Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid FET and Optical Compressor

$1,399.00
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Description


Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid Compressor Demo

  Black Lion Audio B172A hybrid FET optical compressor

1176 + LA-2A in One Chassis, Routable Either Direction

The B172A combines Black Lion's Seventeen FET compressor (1176-style) with a new LA-2A-style optical circuit in a single 2U unit. A/B routing sends signal FET-first then opto. B/A reverses it — opto catches peaks, FET finishes. Center position runs both independently in dual-mono mode (bass on FET, vocal on opto simultaneously).

Each circuit has stereo link capability, so a pair of B172As can run linked stereo on both FET and opto sides. Every top studio wires these two compressors in series for vocal tracking — the B172A puts that exact chain in one box with flexible routing.

 Black Lion Audio B172A T4BLA custom optical cell opto compressor

Custom T4BLA Optical Cell Built From Scratch

Black Lion engineered the T4BLA optical element specifically for the B172A after years refining hardware mods. It's designed to be the best T4B-style optocell available — period. The opto side gives you classic Gain and Peak Reduction knobs plus Limit/Compress ratio switch.

FET side (Seventeen circuit): Input, Output, Attack (20 µs–800 µs), Release (50 ms–1200 ms), Ratio (4:1–20:1). Attack knob left = faster, right = slower. Release knob left = faster, right = slower. Both sides: balanced XLR + 1/4" I/O.

 Black Lion Audio B172A CineMag transformer Chicago wound output

CineMag Input, Chicago-Wound Outputs, Premium Caps

CineMag input transformer on the 2A (opto) side. Black Lion's own Chicago-wound output transformers on both FET and opto circuits. High-grade signal path and power decoupling capacitors throughout. Up to 40 dB gain ±1 dB. Dual 1/4" link jacks (one for FET, one for opto) connect to a second B172A for stereo operation.

Designed and engineered in Chicago. Standard IEC AC power. 2U rackmount. As an authorized dealer, Pro Audio Reserve ensures you receive a genuine Black Lion Audio product backed by full manufacturer warranty and long-term support.

Highlights

  • 1176-style FET + LA-2A-style opto in single 2U chassis
  • A/B or B/A routing switch (or dual-mono center position)
  • FET side: Seventeen circuit — Input, Output, Attack (20 µs–800 µs), Release (50 ms–1200 ms), Ratio (4:1–20:1)
  • Opto side: T4BLA custom optical cell — Gain, Peak Reduction, Limit/Compress switch
  • T4BLA designed as best T4B-style optocell available
  • CineMag input transformer (2A/opto side)
  • Black Lion Chicago-wound output transformers (both circuits)
  • High-grade signal path and power decoupling capacitors
  • Up to 40 dB gain (±1 dB)
  • Dual stereo link: FET links to another B172A's FET, opto links to another B172A's opto
  • Dual-mono mode: run two sources independently (FET + opto)
  • I/O per circuit: XLR + 1/4" balanced
  • 2 x 1/4" link jacks (FET link, opto link)
  • 2U rackmount, standard IEC AC power
  • Designed and engineered in Chicago, IL

Black Lion Audio B172A Specifications

Specification Details
Configuration Hybrid FET + optical compressor (dual circuit, single chassis)
FET Circuit Seventeen (1176-style)
Optical Circuit LA-2A-style with custom T4BLA optical cell
Routing Options A/B (FET→Opto), B/A (Opto→FET), Dual-Mono (independent)
FET Attack Range 20 µs – 800 µs (continuously variable, CCW = faster)
FET Release Range 50 ms – 1200 ms (continuously variable, CCW = faster)
FET Ratio 4:1 to 20:1
Opto Controls Gain, Peak Reduction, Limit/Compress switch
Maximum Gain Up to 40 dB (±1 dB)
FET Input Transformer Black Lion design
Opto Input Transformer CineMag
Output Transformers Black Lion Chicago-wound (both circuits)
Optical Cell T4BLA (custom Black Lion design)
Stereo Link Yes (FET and opto independently linkable to second B172A)
Inputs (Per Circuit) 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (balanced)
Outputs (Per Circuit) 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (balanced)
Link I/O 2 x 1/4" (FET link, opto link)
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Rack Spaces 2U
Width 19"
Designed Chicago, IL USA

What's in the Box

Included Items
Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid FET/Optical Compressor
Power Cable
User Manual
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

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Description


Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid Compressor Demo

  Black Lion Audio B172A hybrid FET optical compressor

1176 + LA-2A in One Chassis, Routable Either Direction

The B172A combines Black Lion's Seventeen FET compressor (1176-style) with a new LA-2A-style optical circuit in a single 2U unit. A/B routing sends signal FET-first then opto. B/A reverses it — opto catches peaks, FET finishes. Center position runs both independently in dual-mono mode (bass on FET, vocal on opto simultaneously).

Each circuit has stereo link capability, so a pair of B172As can run linked stereo on both FET and opto sides. Every top studio wires these two compressors in series for vocal tracking — the B172A puts that exact chain in one box with flexible routing.

 Black Lion Audio B172A T4BLA custom optical cell opto compressor

Custom T4BLA Optical Cell Built From Scratch

Black Lion engineered the T4BLA optical element specifically for the B172A after years refining hardware mods. It's designed to be the best T4B-style optocell available — period. The opto side gives you classic Gain and Peak Reduction knobs plus Limit/Compress ratio switch.

FET side (Seventeen circuit): Input, Output, Attack (20 µs–800 µs), Release (50 ms–1200 ms), Ratio (4:1–20:1). Attack knob left = faster, right = slower. Release knob left = faster, right = slower. Both sides: balanced XLR + 1/4" I/O.

 Black Lion Audio B172A CineMag transformer Chicago wound output

CineMag Input, Chicago-Wound Outputs, Premium Caps

CineMag input transformer on the 2A (opto) side. Black Lion's own Chicago-wound output transformers on both FET and opto circuits. High-grade signal path and power decoupling capacitors throughout. Up to 40 dB gain ±1 dB. Dual 1/4" link jacks (one for FET, one for opto) connect to a second B172A for stereo operation.

Designed and engineered in Chicago. Standard IEC AC power. 2U rackmount. As an authorized dealer, Pro Audio Reserve ensures you receive a genuine Black Lion Audio product backed by full manufacturer warranty and long-term support.

Highlights

  • 1176-style FET + LA-2A-style opto in single 2U chassis
  • A/B or B/A routing switch (or dual-mono center position)
  • FET side: Seventeen circuit — Input, Output, Attack (20 µs–800 µs), Release (50 ms–1200 ms), Ratio (4:1–20:1)
  • Opto side: T4BLA custom optical cell — Gain, Peak Reduction, Limit/Compress switch
  • T4BLA designed as best T4B-style optocell available
  • CineMag input transformer (2A/opto side)
  • Black Lion Chicago-wound output transformers (both circuits)
  • High-grade signal path and power decoupling capacitors
  • Up to 40 dB gain (±1 dB)
  • Dual stereo link: FET links to another B172A's FET, opto links to another B172A's opto
  • Dual-mono mode: run two sources independently (FET + opto)
  • I/O per circuit: XLR + 1/4" balanced
  • 2 x 1/4" link jacks (FET link, opto link)
  • 2U rackmount, standard IEC AC power
  • Designed and engineered in Chicago, IL

Black Lion Audio B172A Specifications

Specification Details
Configuration Hybrid FET + optical compressor (dual circuit, single chassis)
FET Circuit Seventeen (1176-style)
Optical Circuit LA-2A-style with custom T4BLA optical cell
Routing Options A/B (FET→Opto), B/A (Opto→FET), Dual-Mono (independent)
FET Attack Range 20 µs – 800 µs (continuously variable, CCW = faster)
FET Release Range 50 ms – 1200 ms (continuously variable, CCW = faster)
FET Ratio 4:1 to 20:1
Opto Controls Gain, Peak Reduction, Limit/Compress switch
Maximum Gain Up to 40 dB (±1 dB)
FET Input Transformer Black Lion design
Opto Input Transformer CineMag
Output Transformers Black Lion Chicago-wound (both circuits)
Optical Cell T4BLA (custom Black Lion design)
Stereo Link Yes (FET and opto independently linkable to second B172A)
Inputs (Per Circuit) 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (balanced)
Outputs (Per Circuit) 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4" (balanced)
Link I/O 2 x 1/4" (FET link, opto link)
Power Source Standard IEC AC cable
Rack Spaces 2U
Width 19"
Designed Chicago, IL USA

What's in the Box

Included Items
Black Lion Audio B172A Hybrid FET/Optical Compressor
Power Cable
User Manual
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
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(0)
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