Black Lion Audio B173 User manual

B173 |User Manual

B173 |User Manual 2
Introduction ..........................................................................................................3
Features.................................................................................................................3
........................................................................................................3
Package Contents.................................................................................................3
Front.......................................................................................................................4
Back .......................................................................................................................4
Connection Diagrams...........................................................................................5
Signal Flow/Hardware Block Diagram ..................................................................5
Repair.....................................................................................................................6
Warranty ................................................................................................................6
Disclaimer..............................................................................................................6
Copyright...............................................................................................................7
TABLE OF CONTENTS

The B173 is largely based on the classic design of a Neve 1073. We originally set out
to create a direct clone, but ultimately decided to pursue our own unique design that
combined both modern and vintage characteristics in a portable, compact enclosure.


transformers, stepped gain, an output attenuator, phantom power, and switchable phase.
It features up to 80dB of gain, is housed in a 1U, 1/2 rack chassis, and has a high-impedance
DI input that will work with anything from guitars to keyboards.
Our aim was to combine the creamy fullness of a Neve 1073 with the polished clarity found
in many expensive, modern preamps. The result is a well-balanced, smooth-sounding
preamp with low noise and plenty of gain.
INTRODUCTION
FEATURES
SPECIFICATIONS
Gain: 12dB to 80dB
THD+N:
• @12dB Gain = .07%
• @ 62dB Gain = .14%
Power: 24VAC, 500mA External Supply
Weight: 3.2 lbs
Dimensions: 9.5” x 6.5” x 1.75”
Shipping weight: 5.5lbs
Shipping dimensions: 13” x 11” x 5”
• Cinemage Input Transformer
• Edcor Output Transformer
• 80dB Gain
• D.I. Input (active, unbalanced)
• Phantom Power
• Phase Switch
• Output Attenuator
• XLR Microphone Input
• TRS Line Output (balanced)
• B173
• Power Supply (wall wart)
• ½ Rack Connector Plate
PACKAGE CONTENTS
B173 |User Manual 3

1. POWER:

2. MIC GAIN (stepped, 12-position switch): clockwise rotation yields an increase in input signal amplitude,
counterclockwise rotation yields a decrease in input signal amplitude
3. 48v:
4. PHASE ( O ): engage to adjust input signal polarity by 180°, disengage to leave input signal polarity
unchanged
5. OUTPUT LEVEL: clockwise rotation yields less attenuation, counterclockwise rotation yields more

needed so as not to saturate the input transformer)
6. DI: engage to select front panel TS jack as input source, disengage to select rear panel XLR jack as input
source
FRONT
1. OUTPUT: balanced, line-level TRS output
2. INPUT: 
3. GND: internal chassis ground
4. POWER: 
BACK
1 2 3 4
2 3 4 5 61
B173 |User Manual 4

DI/Mic
Switch
Output
Level Pot
Faceplate
1/4” Input
DI Input
Circuit
Mic Amp
Circuit
Mic Input
Transformer
Backplate
XLR input
Output
Amp
Output
Transformer
Backplate
1/4” Output
CONNECTION DIAGRAMS
LEGEND Digital Audio
Analog Audio
Data
Clock
TRACKING
Monitor controller/
Multi FX unit
SIGNAL FLOW/HARDWARE BLOCK DIAGRAM
“MIC GAIN” is a 12-position, stepped switch ranging from +12dB minimum gain to +80dB
maximum gain. The majority of the gain for the XLR microphone input comes from the mic
amp gain stage. The signal passes through an input transformer before going to the mic
amp gain stage, which is controlled by the “MIC GAIN” rotary switch on the front panel.
The signal then passes to the DI switch, which selects which input signal (mic or DI) goes to


B173 |User Manual 5

should not attempt to repair the device

Please contact Black Lion Audio if you need assistance.
REPAIR
We extend a two-year warranty on defects in materials and workmanship for all Black Lion
Audio products from the date of purchase. This does not cover user error, wear, tear, or
abuse. Should your B.L.A. product experience any problems or failures during the warranty
period, immediately contact us, and we will gladly correct the issue at no charge (excluding
shipping).
WARRANTY
For your safety, please read the following!
Grounding: For your safety, do not defeat the grounding connection. Use the device only
when it is properly grounded.
Liquids, water, and moisture: The device should not be used near water, or when it is wet.
Care should be taken so that it remains dry. Be sure to keep the device away from rain or
other moisture.
Power: The device should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the
user manual and/or as marked on the rear panel.
Power cables: Power supply cables should not be routed under carpets, or where they are
likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Do not use power
supply cables that have become worn or frayed.
Multiple-input voltage:
plug, cable, or both, depending on the available power connection in your area.
DISCLAIMER
B173 |User Manual 6

BLACKLIONAUDIO.COM
1801 W. BELLE PLAINE AVE., SUITE 102
CHICAGO, IL 60613


Copyright © 2015 Black Lion Audio, Inc. All rights reserved. This manual and any associated
artwork, product designs, and design concepts are subject to copyright protection. No part of
this document may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of Black Lion
Audio, Inc.