Black Lion Audio Level-Loc Classic effect compressor / saturation module
Black Lion Audio Level-Loc Classic effect compressor / saturation module
Can it crush? Shure it can.
The original Shure Level-Loc of the 1960s was designed as a simple, affordable compressor/limiter intended for speech reinforcement and leveling in live sound and broadcast applications and was quite successful at its intended purpose.
As years rolled on, the original Level-Loc became an increasingly popular secret weapon of studio engineers due to its sledgehammer approach to compression while doubling as an optional saturation module. The heavy hand of the Level-Loc imparts some serious grind to anything you throw at it—it sounds particularly aggressive on a drum bus. Once word got out, prices of the Level-Loc skyrocketed on popular auction sites, and plug-in emulations predictably began to pop up.
But now, thanks to a close collaboration with Shure, Black Lion Audio has brought the Level-Loc back to the masses with all the heavyweight slam of the original… without the auction site price tags or questionable reliability inherent in buying anything that was already in used condition sixty years ago.
Vintage vibe, modern options.
While the Shure Level-Loc had admittedly utilitarian beginnings as a simple tool for controlling audio levels, its accidental aggressive and colorful sonic fingerprint has been embraced in modern music production as a creative effect.
We worked closely with Shure to keep everything that made the OG Level-Loc great; quirks and all—while adding modern conveniences and connectivity not found on the original:
Mix control: get instant parallel compression, adjustable to taste.
Combo jack input: Connect either line-level or mic-level signals without an adapter.
¼ TRS Output: We added a TRS jack while keeping the original’s XLR output and high/low impedance options.
Phantom power and pad: The original Level-Loc was intended for use with dynamic mics, but we’ve added a +48v power source and an A15LA pad (-30 dB low impedance / -15 dB high impedance) to our version for modern studios.
Crunch and grind.
The Level-Loc’s compressor threshold is set by the “Distance Selector,” true to the device’s origins as a unit originally intended for public speaking. Pick your threshold and adjust the input level to apply heavy-handed compression; adjust the mix to taste for some instant parallel comp. This will really bring out the room tone of your drum sounds.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try disabling the pad and sending the Level-Loc a line level signal and boost the line level to overdrive it a bit, then use the Mix knob to adjust the coloration to taste; you can get everything from subtle saturation to all-out distortion. You can even overdrive the input and compress simultaneously.
When it’s time to bring some serious bite and grit to your productions, there’s simply not a better tool than the Level-Loc.
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When will my order be dispatched?
Orders are dispatched Tuesday, Wednesday via Courierpost. You will be sent an email confirmation with tracking details once your order is on its way to you. If you have any questions about your order, please email nigel@oceania-audio.co.nz or use the contact form on this website.
How long will it take for my order to be delivered?
Orders are usually delivered the day after they are shipped. Rural orders may take 1-2 extra days.
Why is my order taking longer than expected?
Sometimes we have to order stock in from our suppliers if we don’t have it on hand. Where there are delays or when products are on backorder, this will always be indicated on the product page.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is free within New Zealand and dispatched with Courier Post.
Can I pick up my order?
Orders are shipped from our warehouse. If you would like to pick your order up, please arrange with us prior to placing your order. Email nigel@oceania-audio.co.nz or contact us using the contact form on this website.
What if my order was wrong?
If your order was incorrect or faulty in any way, please let us know and we will make sure you get what you ordered.
What is your refund policy?
You can find out more about our refund policy.
NZ Delivery
We like to keep things simple... Shipping is always FREE within New Zealand.
Our shipping days are Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
All packages are sent out of Auckland, New Zealand.
Please allow up to 7 working days for your package to arrive before contacting us. Although we strive to have them arrive in 1-3 working days with rural, public holidays, weekends, or unforeseen circumstances, this can take longer, depending on the shipping option, location and payment option you chose.
Once your order has been dispatched, you will receive a confirmation email with tracking details.
Please note: orders containing personalised or customised items may require additional processing time. Any extended timeframes will be clearly communicated at checkout or in your order confirmation.
Shipping Rates
Shipping is always FREE within New Zealand.
P.O. Boxes
We are currently unable to ship to P.O. Boxes. If a P.O. Box address is given by mistake we will contact you and this may cause a delay with the delivery of your package.
International Delivery
We don't currently ship outside of New Zealand, but if you aren't in New Zealand and see something you like, email sales@oceania-audio.co.nz and we will try to help you out.
Damaged, Lost or Missing Orders
If your order arrives damaged, incorrect, or is missing items, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery at sales@oceania-audio.co.nz with:
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Your order number
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Clear photos of the item and packaging
We will review each case individually and work towards a fair resolution in line with New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act obligations.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about shipping, delivery, or your order, please contact:
sales@oceania-audio.co.nz
Questions? Spot a better price?
Call +64 9 845 7800 or Contact us
