Black Lion Audio
Black Lion Audio Bluey 500
Best professional compressor for engineers seeking iconic, modified vintage vocal tones.
Experience the legendary sound of Chris Lord-Alge's modified 2U compressor in a compact 500-series format with the Black Lion Audio Bluey 500. This unit faithfully recreates the unique sonic character of the original, incorporating CLA's custom upgrades and features custom Cinemag transformers. It replicates both the original UTC input and Reichenbach output transformers, offering authentic console feel via a recreation of CLA’s insert path. Modern workflow enhancements include an active wet/dry mix for parallel compression and stereo linking capabilities. This unit is hand-tested and calibrated in the USA.
$699.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
26
/ 81
#26 in Noise Gates & Compressors
Price vs Category Average
-43%
Below average
Type
Compressor
/ Compressor
Who it's for
- Engineers seeking iconic, aggressive vintage compression character
- Studio owners maximizing space with modular rack setups
- Producers demanding high-quality, authentic transformer-driven signal paths
Who should skip it
- Engineers requiring transparent, subtle dynamic control for mastering
- Budget-conscious buyers lacking an existing 500-series power chassis
- Purists preferring the standard, neutral sound of original units
Performance breakdown
FET Character Accuracy
Faithfully captures the aggressive, iconic punch of the original modified 1176.
Transformer Sonics
Custom Cinemag transformers deliver authentic vintage console warmth and harmonic depth.
Parallel Processing Utility
Integrated wet/dry mix knob makes parallel compression effortless and highly musical.
Build Integrity
Premium components and meticulous USA calibration ensure long-term studio reliability.
Workflow Integration
Stereo linking and 500-series format provide modern flexibility for professional setups.
Signal Path Fidelity
Replicated insert path buffering maintains signal integrity across complex recording chains.
Key Specs
Type
Compressor
Form Factor
500-series module
Channel Count
1
Processing Type
FET
Circuit Type
FET
Model Number
Bluey500
Brand
Black Lion Audio
UPC
753459869024
Features
- 500-series recreation of CLA's prized 1176
- Custom Cinemag transformers for detailed sound
- Wet/Dry mix for parallel compression
- Stereo-linkable operation
- Recreates CLA's console insert path buffering
- Hand-tested and calibrated in the USA
- Vintage-inspired PCB layout
- Uses 1% resistors and polyester capacitors
What customers say
The Black Lion Audio Bluey 500 is highly respected for its aggressive sonic signature, faithfully capturing the grit and punch of the vintage Blue Stripe compressor. Users consistently praise its ability to add weight and excitement to vocals, drums, and bass when driven hard, valuing its intentional color and vintage flavor over transparency. The build quality reflects robust engineering. The core consensus centers on exceptional value, delivering a legendary sound previously reserved for much more expensive units. Engineers favor the Bluey as a specialized tool for powerful, characterful compression.
Know before you buy
The Bluey 500 is a specific recreation of Chris Lord-Alge’s modified 1176, which features unique custom Cinemag transformers and a specific console insert path. It captures the distinct, aggressive character of that specific unit rather than the sound of a stock, factory-original 1176.
Yes, the unit is stereo-linkable. You will need two Bluey 500 modules and a compatible 500-series rack that supports linking to process stereo signals effectively.
The wet/dry mix allows you to blend the compressed signal with your original, uncompressed audio. This is ideal for parallel compression, letting you retain the natural transients of a performance while adding the density and sustain of the FET circuit.
It is designed to fit into any standard 500-series rack. However, ensure your chassis provides sufficient power and supports the stereo-linking feature if you plan to use two units together.
The Bluey 500 is a fully analog FET compressor. It uses high-quality components like 1% resistors and polyester capacitors to maintain the integrity of the signal path.
The unit replicates the specific buffering found in CLA’s console insert path. This ensures that the compressor interacts with your signal chain exactly as it would in his professional studio setup, preserving the intended impedance and gain staging.
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