Burl Audio B1D 500 Series Microphone Preamp with BX4 Iron Output Transformer Reviews
If you are looking for big punch and fat tone from a 500 series preamp, look no further. The Burl B1D has huge tone, from heavy and gainy to clean and warm. Get rid of all that extra EQ and compression and replace it with real preamp warmth. The B1D has an iron transformer giving it a bigger rock tone than its nickel transformer eqipped brother, the B1. Extensively tested with many mics, including ribbon mics, this mic pre continually offers up great tone. The Class-A audiophile circuit and custom BX4 output transformer combine to deliver amazing punch on drums and warmth on vocals. If you are looking for a new 500 series preamp be sure to checkout the Burl B1D.
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Highest Rated Reviews
One of the best guitar DI's out there, period.
For electric and acoustic guitar, this is one of the best DIs with gain you can find.
The pre is great, works well to tame harsh, sterile mics.
Exceptional!!!
So far I"ve used on guitar amps and snare drum. It sounds fantastic! This sounds flattering and magical when paired up with a tube amp and you drive the front end of the preamp a bit. Side by side with another excellent preamp, this was the clear favorite for a harmonically rich, meaty, robust sound. Sounds. So. Good!
On snare it has a "ballsy" sound but still captures crack and buzz with clarity and nuance.
The construction is solid and it sounds great. I can"t wait to try additional sound sources.
Excellent preamp.
I like to keep it simple when tracking, and a little transformer saturation (gain control) helps me maintain control over the dynamics. The LED at the top lights up green amber then red to tell you if your signal is rare, medium, or well done. Sending drums through the B1D transformers hits you in the chest! Synths gain some edginess for sure! I could use it on any source, and would be happy to. Simply, the B1D is great. I own 3.
Buy This Pre
I have used multiple 500 series units and have other top notch press, This thing really has one of the warmest sounds I have ever heard especially on guits and bass. It is also fantastic on vocals (especially if you add a little compression).
Could not be happier with this purchase!!!
Our secret weapon
This has been my little secret for awhile now but others need to know: this Pre sounds phenomenal! We tested it thoroughly against the API 512c and UA 610 and, though they both sound great, there was a clarity and vibe to the Burl tracks that brought our tracks to the next level. If you haven't converted to Burl, don't hesitate!
