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February 11, 2008 ../ TestDrive: Black Lion Audio MicroClockBlack Lion Audio (BLA), a small concern from Chicago known for their enhancements of popular audio interfaces, recently released their first product, an external word clock dubbed the MicroClock. Black Lion made the decision to develop their own dedicated master clock because they felt that most of the solutions available were of poor quality and contained features that many project studios never used. When BLA boasted on their website that the MicroClock "will provide a wide, separated soundstage and add smooth, neutral clarity to your digital conversion," we decided it was time for a TestDrive.
  The MicroClock uses two master clock generation circuits, 44.1kHz and 48kHz, selected by the toggle switch. To achieve an output of 192kHz, you select 48kHz with the toggle, and then turn the knob to the x3 position, which "multiplies" the circuit by either 1, 2, or 3. Elementary for sure, but a single knob with all six frequency selections would be more to the point.
Features:
So how did it make our kit sound? Damn good. We inserted the MicroClock in our main project studio and it made an immediate impact on the audio's overall clarity with increased definition in the mid to high frequencies and more precise bass response. In fact, the room's engineer, who thought his rig was pretty well dialed-in, was quite impressed by the little black box. "Just when you think you have a jackin' studio, someone has to pull the cotton out of your ears." For another perspective, we sent the box to another studio that specializes in vocal-oriented electronic music. His feedback was even more substantial, "With the MicroClock, I found that the vocal performances were more direct and present with a new found soundstage that I didn't think was possible with my gear." High marks indeed. Jim Stout, a brilliant musician, producer and Roland employee, gave the BLA MicroClock kudos as well, and provided the A/B comparison that you can hear below. "The MicroClock is the best word clock for the money," Stout concludes. "In my experience, the master clock is usually the weakest element in interfaces under $2000, so adding a MicroClock is a no-brainer for anyone who wants to enhance their overall sound."
Due to the fact that this was BLA's first product, we subjected the MicroClock to a long-term TestDrive to determine if there were build quality issues, or deterioration of the clock signal over time. We are happy to report that the MicroClock held up without any problems, even after extensive shipping to and from the various studios around the country. Overall, the Black Lion Audio MicroClock is an excellent dedicated master clock generator that will certainly improve the clarity of your A/D conversion. Although, it's hard to see where your $425 is going when looking at the MicroClock, you'll certainly hear the money in your mix. The Black Lion Audio MicroClock costs $425 and is available directly from the manufacturer. BLA offers a 14-Day, no questions asked, money back guarantee if you're not completely satisfied with the results. The Future: A single frequency selection knob is a no-brainer for the next version of the MicroClock. Several engineers also suggested a small Power light so they wouldn't have to wonder "Is this thing on?" Since power delivery is a significant factor in sound quality, it may be a good idea for BLA to explore an improved power supply with filtration.
Audio Comparo: >>> Back to Digihear?
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   Black Lion Audio's MicroClock is an excellent dedicated master clock generator that will certainly improve the clarity of your A/D conversion. Although, it's hard to see where your $425 is going when looking at the MicroClock, you'll certainly hear your money in the mix.
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