For audio professionals and gear enthusiasts aiming to simplify their studio workflow, Black Lion Audio has released two tools designed to reduce clutter, improve routing, and offer reliable connectivity: the PBR-XLR-16F-DSUB patchbay and the MIDI Eight interface. Built with the brand's trusted engineering, these units bring functionality and toughness to any setup.
Clean Up Studio Cabling: PBR-XLR-16F-DSUB
The PBR-XLR-16F-DSUB is a 16-point female XLR to DB25 patchbay that allows you to route up to 16 microphones to your mixer, interface, or outboard gear from a single rack space. Its gold-plated connections ensure strong signal integrity, and its design helps avoid crawling under desks to reach hard-to-access inputs.
With gold-plated XLR and DB25 connectors, a reinforced internal steel backplate, and a black-anodized aluminum faceplate, this patchbay is made for long-term, reliable use. Included front panel labels keep your routing clear and organized, with optional custom templates available online.
Key features:
- 16 gold-plated female XLR connectors
- 2 gold-plated DB25 rear outputs
- Steel internal backplate to protect against frequent patching
- Black-anodized aluminum and steel construction
- Front panel labeling included
- This unit is ideal for engineers looking to maintain a clean signal path without the mess of tangled cables.
MIDI Routing, Simplified: MIDI Eight
The MIDI Eight offers complete control over your MIDI gear with 8 inputs and 8 outputs, each supporting 16 channels. It includes three standalone routing modes (Pass, Thru, and Merge) and a bright LED indicator per port, making it easy to monitor activity at a glance.
Built to integrate seamlessly into any setup, it can be used with or without a computer. It's class-compliant with macOS and Windows, bus-powered via USB, or powered using the included DC adapter. A built-in 5-port powered USB hub makes it even easier to connect modern MIDI controllers and peripherals. The Panic button silences stuck notes immediately.
Key features:
- 8-in / 8-out 5-pin DIN MIDI ports
- Three standalone routing modes
- Interface mode for DAW connectivity
- Front-mounted Input 8 and Output 8
- 5-port powered USB 3.2 Gen 1 hub
- Class-compliant on Mac and Windows
- USB and DC power options
From hardware-based live rigs to studio sequencing, MIDI Eight delivers flexibility and consistent performance.