The Black Lion Audio Revolution 14×16 is a class-compliant USB-C audio interface offering 14 inputs and 16 outputs, designed to deliver high-performance audio quality and flexible studio control in a compact 1U rackmount format. At its core are two Cinemag transformer-coupled Auteur microphone preamps, built directly into the unit.
These preamps give your recordings a distinctive tonal character, offering fast transient response at lower gain settings, ideal for percussion and rhythm instruments, and warm harmonic saturation when pushed harder, particularly flattering for vocals and bass. Both front and rear inputs are available on channels 1 and 2 for convenience.
In addition to these, the interface includes two further mic and instrument inputs on channels 3 and 4, bringing the total to four high-grade analogue inputs. The Revolution 14×16 also features four insert and return paths that can be switched on the front panel, allowing seamless integration of external outboard gear such as compressors or equalisers.
These return jacks also function as additional line-level inputs, which means keyboards and synthesisers can be connected directly. The unit can operate independently of a computer, allowing it to function as a standalone microphone preamp using the insert and return connections.
The analogue output section includes a secondary pair of assignable analogue outputs for routing flexibility, as well as dedicated main outputs on both TRS and XLR connectors. Digital connectivity is covered with stereo S/PDIF input and output, while expansion is made possible through ADAT optical input and output, supporting an additional eight channels in and out. This allows the Revolution 14×16 to grow alongside your setup when more channels are required.
Monitoring is a major strength of the Black Lion Audio Revolution 14×16. It includes three powerful, high-headroom headphone amplifiers, each capable of clean, detailed output at high volume. The Mix Edit feature enables users to quickly create a low-latency headphone mix using a combination of hardware inputs and software playback.
The eight-stage LED metering display can be set to monitor input levels, output levels, or the return paths of the insert section. Both the main monitor outputs and headphone outputs can be set to mono for compatibility checks.
One of the standout technologies in the Black Lion Audio Revolution 14×16 is its patented Macro-MMC clocking system. Developed from Black Lion Audio’s years of experience designing word clocks and modifying embedded systems, Macro-MMC ensures precise timing across all digital connections.
This results in improved stereo imaging, transient accuracy, and high-frequency detail. The interface includes a word clock input on BNC for studios using an external master clock, allowing it to integrate cleanly into existing setups.
Internally, the Black Lion Audio Revolution 14×16 reflects Black Lion Audio’s commitment to premium design. The power rails are carefully filtered and decoupled to prevent contamination from electrical noise. All analogue inputs and outputs are fully balanced and decoupled right to the converter stage.
The unit uses high-spec components throughout, including Vishay, Wima, and Nichicon capacitors along with thin film resistors, ensuring minimal distortion and maximum fidelity. The gain staging across the circuitry is optimised to deliver excellent signal-to-noise performance.
With its combination of premium analogue circuitry, flexible routing, high-quality preamps, powerful monitoring, industry-leading clocking, and bundled software, the Black Lion Audio Revolution 14×16 is built to serve as the centrepiece of any professional or project studio.
Features
- 14-in / 16-out USB-C audio interface with class-compliant operation
- Two built-in Cinemag transformer-coupled Auteur microphone preamps
- Four total mic/instrument inputs with front and rear access on channels 1 and 2
- Four switchable insert/return paths for integrating external hardware
- Return paths also function as additional line-level inputs
- Standalone preamp operation possible without a computer
- Expandable via ADAT with additional 8-in / 8-out capability
- S/PDIF digital input and output for connecting external digital devices
- Three high-headroom headphone outputs with Mix Edit control for custom cue mixes
- Assignable analogue outputs for flexible routing
- Mono-summable monitor and headphone outputs
- Eight-stage LED metering for inputs, outputs, or insert levels
- Macro-MMC patented clocking for ultra-low jitter and precise synchronisation
- Word clock input for integration with external clock sources
- Fully balanced and decoupled analogue I/O to the converter stage
- Premium internal components including Vishay, Wima, and Nichicon capacitors
- Optimised gain staging and filtered power rails for low-noise performance
