Black Lion Audio Auteur 8DAT The Auteur 8DAT is an eight-channel microphone preamplifier and A/D converter designed to expand interface setups via ADAT. The unit combines the company's signature high-speed transparent preamplification with integrated digital conversion, offering a solution for tracking full drum kits or large ensembles within a single rack unit. The Auteur 8DAT features eight channels of Chicago-style transformer-coupled preamps. The first two channels include front-panel Hi-Z inputs for direct instrument tracking. Each channel is equipped with a dedicated gain control, polarity flip, 10dB pad, and 48V phantom power. The analog circuit is designed to provide a wide frequency response and low noise floor, while the IC-based input stages ensure rapid transient response. For digital integration, the unit utilizes high-quality A/D converters capable of resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz. Connectivity is handled via dual ADAT Optical outputs, allowing for full eight-channel counts even at higher sample rates (S/MUX). The unit also includes a Word Clock I/O for synchronization with external digital clocking systems. Key Features Eight-Channel Preamplification: High-speed transparent circuitry with Cinemag output transformers. Integrated A/D Conversion: Supports sample rates from 44.1kHz up to 192kHz. Front-Panel Access: Two Hi-Z instrument inputs for guitars and basses. Flexible Connectivity: Dual ADAT outputs and BNC Word Clock I/O. Per-Channel Controls: Independent 48V phantom power, phase invert, and 10dB pad. Metering: 8-segment LED meters for accurate signal monitoring on every channel. Form Factor: 1U rack-mountable chassis with an external power supply to minimize internal noise. Technical Specifications & Requirements Preamp Type: Solid State (Transformer-coupled output). Digital Outputs: 2 x ADAT Optical (Toslink). Max Sample Rate: 192kHz. Analog Inputs: 8 x XLR (Rear), 2 x 1/4" TS Hi-Z (Front). Word Clock: 1 x BNC In, 1 x BNC Out. Power: External 24V DC Power Supply. Read More