Black Lion Audio - Bluey 500 Compressor

Black Lion Audio's Bluey 500 isn't just another compressor in the 500 format, it's the very essence of the legendary 'Bluey', a customised version of an 1176 Blue Stripe that once belonged to Chris Lord-Alge, one of the most influential mixers of recent decades. This legendary compressor, used on countless lead vocals (from Green Day to Bruce Springsteen), acquired its unique sound through years of unintentional repairs and modifications.

Black Lion worked directly with Chris Lord-Alge to dismantle, analyse and recreate every detail of this now cult compressor. The result is a faithful reproduction, called Bluey, available here in 500 format with all the sonic qualities of the original, but in twice the size.

But that's not all. The Bluey 500 doesn't just copy the sound: it also adds modern features that make it even more flexible. A wet/dry mix for easy parallel compression, a stereo link function for use on busses or stereo signals, and input/output buffers directly inspired by Chris Lord-Alge's console insert path.

Under the bonnet, you'll find a serious construction with premium components: Cinemag transformers inspired by vintage UTC and Reichenbach transformers, 1% resistors, polyester capacitors, a vintage-design PCB and a linear power supply. Assembled, calibrated and tested by hand in the USA, the Bluey 500 is a true studio tool, both faithful to vintage sound aesthetics and perfectly adapted to modern requirements.