The Shure Level-Loc limiter-compressor began its journey in the 1960s as a practical tool for leveling speech audio. Its primary audience was public venues like schools, churches, and broadcast stations, where it ensured consistent sound levels for presenters and performers. Designed to be affordable and straightforward, the Level-Loc featured a "brick-wall" limiter that quickly adapted to varying input levels. This made it an ideal solution for amateur sound operators and environments where reliability and consistency mattered more than sophistication.
It was discontinued in the late 1970's because of advancements in PA systems and the introduction of Automatic Gain Control. However, its unique sonic characteristics - particularly its aggressive compression and saturation - caught the attention of studio engineers, and the Level-Loc became a "secret weapon" for creative sound processing,
The Black Lion Audio Re-Creation: Honoring and Improving a Legend
The Black Lion Audio Level-Loc is a boutique re-creation of the original hardware compressor, developed in close partnership with Shure. While staying true to the original's tonal qualities, Black Lion Audio introduced several modern enhancements to address the limitations of the vintage design.
Modern Connectivity: The new Level-Loc supports TRS and XLR outputs and a Combo jack input, making it compatible with a wider range of setups. The original Level-Loc was intended for use with dynamic mics, but Black Lion Audio added a +48v power source and an A15LA 50 dB pad for the modern studios.
Mix Control: A dedicated mix knob introduces parallel compression, allowing users to blend unprocessed signals with the compression output. This is perfect for maintaining clarity while adding weight and grit.
Release Options: Unlike the original's fixed settings, this version offers selectable release times, giving users greater control over the dynamics.
While the original Level-Loc remains a beloved compressor, the Black Lion Audio re-creation achieves something remarkable: it stays true to the spirit of the classic design while embracing modern versatility. By integrating updated features and improved engineering, the new Level-Loc builds upon the original's strengths without compromising its unique sonic character.
The result is a compressor-limiter that bridges the gap between past and present, satisfying both nostalgic enthusiasts and forward-thinking professionals. Whether you're after the unmistakable "heavy-handed slam" or subtle control over your dynamics, the Black Lion Audio Level-Loc offers the best of both worlds.
