500 Series

The 500 Series format introduced modular studio processing within compact rack systems, allowing engineers to combine preamps, equalisers, compressors and other signal processors in interchangeable slots. Originally developed as part of console channel strip designs, the format evolved into a standalone modular ecosystem widely adopted in modern studio production. This archive includes 500 Series modules and compatible rack systems used in professional recording environments. From vintage-inspired recreations to contemporary circuit designs, the 500 Series format provides flexible hardware processing within modular studio workflows.

Decades
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2023 /
The Black Lion Audio Bluey 500 is a 500-series compressor based on Chris Lord-Alge’s iconic modified unit. It delivers the same punchy, gritty sound with added features like wet and dry mix control and stereo link, using custom Cinemag transformers and a recreated console insert path.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2023 /
Black Lion Audio Seventeen 500 is a modern 500-series reimagining of the classic 1176 compressor, offering cleaner sound, added features like wet/dry mix and stereo link, and a wider tonal palette thanks to a redesigned IC-based front-end and custom output transformer.
Made In China
Released in 2023 /
Cranborne Audio Carnaby 500 Harmonic EQ is a 3-band parametric EQ for the 500 series format with a unique and revolutionary EQ concept conceived and created by Cranborne Audio.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2023 /
Yes, the Heritage Audio Grandchild 670 is a 500 series module based on the praised Heritage Audio Herchild 670 stereo Vari-MU compressor. Let that sink in…it is an incredible feat of engineering to say the least!
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Harrison 32Cpre+ is a high-performance, transformer-coupled microphone preamplifier from the famous Harrison 32C console, in a 500 series format.
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Harrison MR3eq is a 3-band parametric EQ with HP/LP filters originally developed for the Harrison MR3 studio console, in a 500 series format.
Made In China
Released in 2024 /
The Harrison Comp VCA Compressor is a classic feed-forward VCA compressor in a convenient 500 series format.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The Maag Audio PreQ2-500 is a single channel, 500-series version mic preamp with the same circuit topology and sound as our top-of-the line Maag Audio PreQ2 dual-channel strip with Air Band.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The Wolff Audio RefPre is a fully discrete Class A microphone preamp designed by Paul Wolff, delivering ultra-pure, natural sound with uncompromising build quality for critical recording environments.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The Wolff Audio FREQ is a high-precision stereo equaliser with four fully parametric bands per channel, delivering transparent, mastering-grade tonal shaping with robust build quality and discrete, relay-switched signal paths.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The Wolff Audio Tutti is a 500 series microphone and instrument preamplifier, faithfully recreating the classic Sunset Sound Studio 1 preamp with Cinemag transformers and top quality components.
Made In U.S.A.
Released in 2024 /
The Locomotive Audio 86B-1 is a compact valve preamp delivering sweet harmonic gain from clean warmth to aggressive saturation.