Black Lion Audio Bluey Analog FET Limiting Amplifier

Full Description

Legendary compression, faithfully recreated

The Bluey captures the exact sound of Chris Lord-Alge’s favourite Blue Stripe compressor, a unit that developed its unique tone through decades of modifications and repairs. Black Lion Audio worked closely with Lord-Alge to analyse and reproduce the distinctive character of this one-of-a-kind piece, ensuring every detail was faithfully replicated.

From its custom CineMag transformers to its hand-assembled construction, the Bluey delivers the warm, punchy compression heard on countless hit records. Whether tightening up vocals, adding weight to drums, or gluing a mix together, this compressor provides the same studio magic as the original.

Parallel compression made simple

The Bluey includes a built-in wet/dry mix control, allowing for easy parallel compression without the need for external routing. This means you can blend compressed and uncompressed signals directly from the unit, maintaining dynamic range while adding punch and presence.

Ideal for vocals, drums, and mix buses, this feature lets you achieve a natural, balanced sound with minimal effort. It’s a powerful tool for adding character without over-processing, making it a go-to choice for both subtle and aggressive compression styles.

Stereo linking for mix bus applications

For engineers looking to use the Bluey on mix buses or stereo sources, the built-in stereo link function is a game-changer. By linking two units together, you can achieve consistent compression across both channels, keeping your stereo image intact while adding cohesion and glue.

The Bluey is ideal for shaping the dynamics of an entire mix or controlling stereo instrument groups, with the stereo link feature ensuring smooth, transparent compression across both channels. It’s an essential addition for producers and mixers working in professional and home studios alike.

Built to last with premium components

Designed with reliability in mind, the Bluey features a vintage-inspired PCB layout, 1 percent resistors, polyester capacitors, and a linear power supply. These high-quality components ensure long-term stability and consistency, so you can rely on the Bluey for years to come.

Hand-assembled and tested in the USA, every unit undergoes meticulous quality control to meet professional studio standards. Whether in a high-end facility or a project studio, the Bluey is a compressor built to handle the demands of serious audio production.

Features

• Fully discrete Class A circuitry for superior analog sound
• Hand-assembled with through-hole components for durability
• Vintage-inspired PCB layout for authentic analog performance
• Custom Cinemag transformer replicating the original UTC design
• Wet/dry mix control for easy parallel compression
• Stereo link function for dual-unit operation
• High-quality polyester capacitors for enhanced signal integrity
• Linear power supply for stable performance
• Precisely calibrated meter for accurate level monitoring
• Intuitive attack control with reverse operation for easier adjustments

Specifications

• Type: FET Limiter
• Number of Channels: Single channel
• Controls: Attack, Release, Mix, Input, Output
• Ratio: 4:1, 8:1, 12:1, 20:1
• Inputs: 1 x XLR
• Outputs: 1 x XLR
• Other I/O: 1 x RCA (stereo link)
• Rack Spaces: 2U
• Power Source: Standard IEC AC cable
• Product Code: BLUEY