Burl Audio BDA4M

The Burl Audio BDA4M is a 4-channel D/A converter daughter card purpose built for mastering engineers, mix-bus processing loops, and critical monitoring environments within the B80 and B16 Mothership modular chassis. Powered by Burl’s Next Gen Class-A discrete BOPA14 op-amps, the BDA4M features switchable BX5 output transformers allowing engineers to instantly toggle between an ultra transparent Class-A path and rich, iron/nickel core analog saturation.

Designed specifically for mastering applications, the BDA4M incorporates front panel stepped attenuators to fine-tune final output levels in exact increments. This guarantees 100% accurate stereo L/R calibration and seamless session recall without compromising digital resolution in the DAW.

Equipped with 4 direct male XLR connectors mounted directly to the rear panel, the BDA4M bypasses multi-pin DB25 breakout cables for maximum signal purity. Hardware jumpers on the board allow engineers to select between Short Delay and Long Delay digital reconstruction filters, while integrated Avid delay compensation ensures sample-accurate phase alignment when routing hardware inserts in Pro Tools.

Key Features

• 4-Channel Mastering D/A Conversion: Premium 24-bit/192kHz D/A conversion optimized for mastering chains and critical monitor paths.

• Switchable BX5 Output Transformers: Front-panel switchable BX5 nickel/iron transformers for adding analog warmth, harmonic glue, and low-end weight.

• Stepped Output Attenuators: Precision front-panel stepped controls for exact channel matching and repeatable analog level staging.

• NextGen BOPA14 Class-A Path: Direct-coupled, zero-capacitor discrete transistor topology delivering 3D stereo imaging and extended dynamic headroom.

• Direct XLR Panel Connectors: 4 male XLR outputs on the rear card faceplate for direct audiophile-grade interconnects.

• Configurable Reconstruction Filters: Selectable Short Delay and Long Delay DAC filter modes via onboard hardware jumpers.

• Mothership Chassis Compatibility: Fully hot-swappable across all B80 Mothership and B16 chassis setups.

Technical Specifications

• Form Factor: Single-Slot Daughter Card (B80 and B16 Mothership Compatible)

• Channel Count: 4 Channels (D/A Conversion)

• Conversion Resolution: 24-Bit / $44.1\text{ kHz}$ to $192\text{ kHz}$

• Analog Circuitry: Direct-Coupled Class-A Discrete Topology (BOPA14 Op-Amps)

• Transformers: Proprietary Burl Audio BX5 Output Transformers (Switchable)

• Level Control: Dual Front-Panel Stepped Output Attenuators

• Analog Output Connectors: 4x XLR Male (Direct Panel Mount)

• Dynamic Range: $115\text{ dB}$ (A-weighted)

• THD+N: $-96\text{ dB}$ (Full scale output $=+22\text{ dBu}$)

• Frequency Response:

  • $10\text{ Hz}-22\text{ kHz}(\pm 0.1\text{ dB}@48\text{ kHz})$

  • $10\text{ Hz}-30\text{ kHz}(\pm 0.1\text{ dB}@96\text{ kHz})$

  • $10\text{ Hz}-30\text{ kHz}(\pm 0.1\text{ dB}@192\text{ kHz})$