Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (5)
$945.00
Guitar Center
$1,050.00
Reverb
$900.00 1 available Used
Musician's Friend
2.0 (1)
$1,050.00
Thomann
5.0 (3)
$1,179.00 $1,169.00 $10.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,010

Standard/Professional

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Burl B1D (Pair)". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Burl B1D 500 Series mic preamp is an extraordinary addition to any studio setup, offering a rich, darker tonality that sets it apart from its peers. This powerhouse preamp features the proprietary BX4 iron output transformer, delivering a formidable rock tone that’s both deep and clear. Designed as part of the API 500 series format, the B1D ensures seamless integration into your existing setup while amplifying your sonic palette.

With a Class-A, all-discrete transistor circuit path, the B1D is perfect for injecting warmth and clarity into your recordings. Whether you're driving the gain for a heavy, energetic sound or dialing it back for a cleaner, warmer output, the B1D adapts beautifully. It excels across a variety of applications, from drums and guitars to vocals, providing a punchy and full-bodied tone that professionals and enthusiasts alike will appreciate.

The B1D's versatility is further highlighted by its independent gain and level controls, allowing precise tonal shaping. The front panel's 1/4" instrument/line input and the PAD switch for managing hot signals make it user-friendly, while the impedance select gives you optimal performance with ribbon mics and other low impedance sources. Use it to breathe new life into your tracks, replacing excessive EQ and compression with genuine analog warmth.

Key Features:

  • BURL custom BX3 input transformer
  • BURL custom BX4 iron output transformer
  • Discrete, Class-A, direct-coupled, capacitor-free circuit path
  • Stepped gain control with independent output level control
  • 70 dB gain
  • Transformer-coupled impedance select
  • 1/4" front panel DI input
  • 30 dB pad for hot signals and balanced line level input
  • Phantom power and phase reverse switch
  • Tri-colored gain level indication
  • API Series 500 Rack Format compatibility

Product specs

Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
Pads -30dB
Polarity Switch Yes
Analog Inputs 1 x 1/4" (DI)
Module Slot Size Single
Power Usage ±16V DC

FAQs

What is the main difference between the Burl B1D and the Burl B1 preamp?

The Burl B1D features an all-iron BX4 output transformer, which provides a more aggressive rock tone compared to the Burl B1. This gives the B1D a punchier sound, particularly suited for drums and guitars, while maintaining warmth and presence on vocals.

Does the Burl B1D preamp include phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Burl B1D preamp includes phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones that require this feature.

What type of input connections does the Burl B1D preamp offer?

The Burl B1D preamp offers a 1/4" front panel DI input, allowing for direct instrument connection, as well as XLR connections for microphones.

Can the Burl B1D handle high-output signals without distortion?

Yes, the Burl B1D features a -30 dB pad, which allows it to handle hot signals and balanced line-level inputs without distortion.

What kind of gain control does the Burl B1D preamp have?

The Burl B1D preamp includes a stepped gain control and an independent output level control, providing precise adjustment over the preamp's 70 dB gain range.

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Burl Audio 500 Series Preamp Comparison: B1 vs. B1D Quick n' Dirty

Video thumbnail for Burl Audio 500 Series Preamp Comparison: B1 vs. B1D Quick n' Dirty by soundpurestudios

Burl Audio 500 Series Preamp Comparison: B1 vs. B1D Quick n' Dirty

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Video thumbnail for Burl Audio B1D 500 Series Preamp Quick n' Dirty by soundpurestudios

Burl Audio B1D 500 Series Preamp Quick n' Dirty

soundpurestudios

soundpurestudios

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional warmth on guitars and bass

  • Flattering, magical sound with tube amps

  • Harmonically rich, meaty, robust tones

  • Captures snare with clarity and nuance

  • Solid construction ensures durability

  • Versatile across diverse instruments

  • Tames harsh mic tones effectively

  • Produces fat, detailed sound without muddiness

CONS

  • Lacks some high-end transparency for certain applications

  • Not ideal for those seeking a neutral preamp

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Burl B1D (Pair).

User experience

  • Some users feel the Burl B1D is not suitable for any application, despite appreciating other Burl products, indicating a specific sound profile that may not be universally appealing.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It's recommended to have at least one pair of the same preamps, like the Burl B1D, for stereo recording of drum overheads, acoustic guitars, or backing vocals.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Burl B1D is often compared with API, Universal Audio, Neve, and Chandler preamps, with some users finding them drastically different in tone, especially when driven hard.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Burl B1D, when used in various settings, may offer a unique sonic character that users either love or find unusable, suggesting a polarizing coloration effect.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Burl Audio B1 & B1D 500-Series Mic Preamps Review | Tape Op Magazine

tapeop.com

These Burl B1D preamps are a sonic delight, boasting rock-solid build quality and a rich tonal palette. They excel in warmth and saturation, making them versatile for various instruments from guitars to vocals. While the B1D adds a touch of "dark" warmth, the B1 offers a cleaner, more pristine sound. Both models are quiet yet capable of delivering dirty, saturated tones when needed. Ideal for those seeking classic charm with modern reliability, they make every source come alive. A must-have for both beginners and seasoned audio pros, these preamps are truly magical in their performance.

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