} Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Four-Channel 73-Style Mic Preamp — Pro Audio Reserve
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Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Four-Channel 73-Style Mic Preamp

$1,499.00
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Description


Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Overview

  Black Lion Audio B173 Quad four-channel mic preamp

73-Inspired Design With Lower Noise, Not a Clone

Black Lion designed the B173 Quad as a development, not a clone. Traded 10 dB of headroom (70 dB max gain vs 1073's 80 dB) for significantly better noise floor: EIN -105 dBu (mic), -100 dBu (DI). THD+N 0.02% mic / 0.03% DI @ +4 dBu output. CineMag input and output transformers deliver muscular lows, assertive mids, glossy highs.

Stepped gain +12 to +70 dB in 5 dB increments. Per-channel output knob sits before output transformer — drive input hard for saturation, pull output back to avoid clipping converters. Bandwidth 10 Hz–30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω source, unweighted). Class A, fully discrete design. Designed and assembled in Chicago.

 Black Lion B173 Quad DI inputs channels 1 2 Hi-Z phantom metering

2 x Front-Panel DI Inputs, Per-Channel Metering

Channels 1 & 2: 1/4" DI input (1.1 MΩ, up to +25 dB gain), Hi-Z switch, phase reverse, +48V phantom. Channels 3 & 4: mic input, +48V phantom only. All 4 channels: LED ladder metering (red LED @ +4 dBu lights when output hits nominal operating level).

Rear: 4 x XLR mic in, 4 x XLR out, 4 x 1/4" TRS out (parallel with XLR). Max mic input +1 dBu. DI max input +18 dBu. Max output +28 dBu. Mic input 200 Ω, output 600 Ω. External 5-pin PSU (included) keeps noise out.

 Black Lion B173 Quad 2U rackmount 8 lbs external power supply

Under $375 Per Channel, 2U Rackmount

19" x 3.5" x 7" (W x H x D), 8 lbs. 2U rackmount. External 5-pin PSU included. 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

  • 4 channels of 73-inspired Class A discrete preamp
  • Revised gain stage: lower noise, cleaner sound vs original 1073
  • 70 dB max gain (+12 to +70 dB in 5 dB stepped increments)
  • CineMag input and output transformers (all channels)
  • EIN: -105 dBu (mic), -100 dBu (DI)
  • THD+N: 0.02% mic / 0.03% DI @ +4 dBu output
  • Bandwidth: 10 Hz–30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω source, unweighted)
  • Channels 1 & 2: 1/4" DI input (1.1 MΩ, +25 dB gain), Hi-Z switch, phase reverse
  • All channels: +48V phantom, LED ladder metering
  • Per-channel output knob positioned before output transformer for saturation control
  • Mic input impedance: 200 Ω | Max mic input: +1 dBu
  • DI input impedance: 1.1 MΩ | Max DI input: +18 dBu
  • Max output: +28 dBu | Output impedance: 600 Ω
  • 4 x XLR mic in, 4 x XLR out, 4 x 1/4" TRS out (parallel)
  • External 5-pin PSU (included)
  • 2U, 19" x 3.5" x 7", 8 lbs
  • Designed and assembled in Chicago, IL USA

Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Specifications

Specification Details
Preamp Type Class A, fully discrete, solid state
Number of Channels 4
Transformers CineMag input and output (all channels)
Gain Range +12 dB to +70 dB (5 dB stepped increments)
DI Gain Range Up to +25 dB (channels 1 & 2 only)
Mic Input Impedance 200 Ω
DI Input Impedance 1.1 MΩ (unbalanced, channels 1 & 2)
Max Mic Input Level +1 dBu
Max DI Input Level +18 dBu
EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) Mic: -105 dBu | DI: -100 dBu
THD+N Mic: 0.02% @ +45 dB gain, +4 dBu output | DI: 0.03% @ +25 dB gain, +4 dBu output
Frequency Response 10 Hz – 30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω unbalanced source, unweighted)
Max Output Level +28 dBu
Output Impedance 600 Ω
Phantom Power +48V (all channels)
Phase Reverse Channels 1 & 2 only
DI Inputs 2 x 1/4" (channels 1 & 2, front panel, Hi-Z switch)
Mic Inputs 4 x XLR (rear panel)
Outputs 4 x XLR, 4 x 1/4" TRS (parallel, rear panel)
Metering LED ladder per channel (red LED @ +4 dBu indicates nominal output level)
Power Source External 5-pin AC adapter (included)
Rack Spaces 2U
Dimensions (W x H x D) 19" x 3.5" x 7"
Weight 8 lbs
Designed and Assembled Chicago, IL USA

What's in the Box

Included Items
Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Four-Channel Mic Preamp
External 5-Pin Power Supply
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 B173 Quad Overview

  Black Lion Audio B173 Quad four-channel mic preamp

73-Inspired Design With Lower Noise, Not a Clone

Black Lion designed the B173 Quad as a development, not a clone. Traded 10 dB of headroom (70 dB max gain vs 1073's 80 dB) for significantly better noise floor: EIN -105 dBu (mic), -100 dBu (DI). THD+N 0.02% mic / 0.03% DI @ +4 dBu output. CineMag input and output transformers deliver muscular lows, assertive mids, glossy highs.

Stepped gain +12 to +70 dB in 5 dB increments. Per-channel output knob sits before output transformer — drive input hard for saturation, pull output back to avoid clipping converters. Bandwidth 10 Hz–30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω source, unweighted). Class A, fully discrete design. Designed and assembled in Chicago.

 Black Lion B173 Quad DI inputs channels 1 2 Hi-Z phantom metering

2 x Front-Panel DI Inputs, Per-Channel Metering

Channels 1 & 2: 1/4" DI input (1.1 MΩ, up to +25 dB gain), Hi-Z switch, phase reverse, +48V phantom. Channels 3 & 4: mic input, +48V phantom only. All 4 channels: LED ladder metering (red LED @ +4 dBu lights when output hits nominal operating level).

Rear: 4 x XLR mic in, 4 x XLR out, 4 x 1/4" TRS out (parallel with XLR). Max mic input +1 dBu. DI max input +18 dBu. Max output +28 dBu. Mic input 200 Ω, output 600 Ω. External 5-pin PSU (included) keeps noise out.

 Black Lion B173 Quad 2U rackmount 8 lbs external power supply

Under $375 Per Channel, 2U Rackmount

19" x 3.5" x 7" (W x H x D), 8 lbs. 2U rackmount. External 5-pin PSU included. 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

  • 4 channels of 73-inspired Class A discrete preamp
  • Revised gain stage: lower noise, cleaner sound vs original 1073
  • 70 dB max gain (+12 to +70 dB in 5 dB stepped increments)
  • CineMag input and output transformers (all channels)
  • EIN: -105 dBu (mic), -100 dBu (DI)
  • THD+N: 0.02% mic / 0.03% DI @ +4 dBu output
  • Bandwidth: 10 Hz–30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω source, unweighted)
  • Channels 1 & 2: 1/4" DI input (1.1 MΩ, +25 dB gain), Hi-Z switch, phase reverse
  • All channels: +48V phantom, LED ladder metering
  • Per-channel output knob positioned before output transformer for saturation control
  • Mic input impedance: 200 Ω | Max mic input: +1 dBu
  • DI input impedance: 1.1 MΩ | Max DI input: +18 dBu
  • Max output: +28 dBu | Output impedance: 600 Ω
  • 4 x XLR mic in, 4 x XLR out, 4 x 1/4" TRS out (parallel)
  • External 5-pin PSU (included)
  • 2U, 19" x 3.5" x 7", 8 lbs
  • Designed and assembled in Chicago, IL USA

Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Specifications

Specification Details
Preamp Type Class A, fully discrete, solid state
Number of Channels 4
Transformers CineMag input and output (all channels)
Gain Range +12 dB to +70 dB (5 dB stepped increments)
DI Gain Range Up to +25 dB (channels 1 & 2 only)
Mic Input Impedance 200 Ω
DI Input Impedance 1.1 MΩ (unbalanced, channels 1 & 2)
Max Mic Input Level +1 dBu
Max DI Input Level +18 dBu
EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) Mic: -105 dBu | DI: -100 dBu
THD+N Mic: 0.02% @ +45 dB gain, +4 dBu output | DI: 0.03% @ +25 dB gain, +4 dBu output
Frequency Response 10 Hz – 30 kHz (1 kHz, 150 Ω unbalanced source, unweighted)
Max Output Level +28 dBu
Output Impedance 600 Ω
Phantom Power +48V (all channels)
Phase Reverse Channels 1 & 2 only
DI Inputs 2 x 1/4" (channels 1 & 2, front panel, Hi-Z switch)
Mic Inputs 4 x XLR (rear panel)
Outputs 4 x XLR, 4 x 1/4" TRS (parallel, rear panel)
Metering LED ladder per channel (red LED @ +4 dBu indicates nominal output level)
Power Source External 5-pin AC adapter (included)
Rack Spaces 2U
Dimensions (W x H x D) 19" x 3.5" x 7"
Weight 8 lbs
Designed and Assembled Chicago, IL USA

What's in the Box

Included Items
Black Lion Audio B173 Quad Four-Channel Mic Preamp
External 5-Pin Power Supply
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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