Black Lion Audio has introduced its 4 Channel Line Selector-labelled LS-4 — launched as a mini-format multi-purpose device designed to allow anyone to connect a stereo source and send it to up to four different devices (with the same source signal even being able to be sent to all four destinations simultaneously, or any combination thereof), readily representing an impressive, inexpensive option for passive monitor switching, headphone distribution, parallel effects routing, and more — as of October 10…
Though the LS-4 is small and simple in its execution as a 4 Channel Line Selector, it has, however, limitless practical and creative potential, including — but not limited to — passive monitor switching with subwoofer toggle (by connecting three pairs of studio monitors to outputs A, B, and C, and connecting a subwoofer to output D); headphone distribution (by connecting the headphone output of an audio interface to an LS-4 input and connecting all LS-4 outputs to headphone amps); effects chain auditioning (by running a dry signal into the LS-4’s inputs, connecting different effects processors to outputs A through to D, and connecting the effects processor outputs to the inputs of an audio interface, then pressing buttons A through to D to audition applying different effects processors to the signal); and parallel effects routing (by connecting different effects processors in the same configuration as the aforementioned effects chain auditioning, also allowing for simultaneous recording of all four parallel processed signals into a DAW). It is worth pointing out here that LS-4’s 100%-passive design does not add any tone colouration to the signal, while a flexible ground lift is available internally per channel.
Clearly the Chicago-based boutique audio company did not let LS-4’s small size affect its build quality; like all Black Lion Audio products, it is built road-tough — think steel enclosure with an anodised black aluminium faceplate, paired with high-quality 1⁄4-inch connections to ensure maximum conductivity and secure connections. All add up to make for an impressive, inexpensive option for passive monitor switching, headphone distribution, parallel effects routing, and more.
LS-4 should start shipping through Black Lion Audio’s growing global network of dealers/distributors (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/dealers) with a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $149.00 USD and an SSP (Suggested Selling Price) of €199.00 EUR (including 19% VAT) in late October 2024.
For more in-depth information, visit the dedicated LS-4 webpage here: https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/essentials/ls-4/
