Burl Audio BAD4M 4-Channel ADC Card for B16 Mothership

Capture the final details of your mix with the clarity and analog character that define professional mastering. The Burl Audio BAD4M 4-channel ADC card for B16 Mothership brings mastering-grade analog-to-digital conversion to the Mothership platform, combining Burl's NextGen Analog technology with switchable BX1 input transformers and precision-stepped attenuators. Designed for mixing and mastering applications, the BAD4M offers two distinct analog signal paths: the transformer-coupled architecture of the acclaimed BAD8 and a newly developed transformerless front end built around Burl's discrete Class-A BOPA14 op-amp. This flexibility allows engineers to choose between the rich, harmonically detailed character of transformer-based conversion and the exceptional transparency of a transformerless signal path. With four XLR inputs, 115dB dynamic range and support for sample rates up to 192kHz, the BAD4M provides the precision and tonal versatility needed for critical recording, mixing and mastering workflows.

Switchable Analog Signal Paths Deliver Character and Transparency

The BAD4M gives engineers direct control over the analog character of their recordings through two carefully engineered input configurations. Engaging the BX1 input transformers introduces the distinctive warmth, depth and harmonic richness associated with Burl's BAD8 converter, making it an excellent choice for adding analog character to digital mixes. Switching to the transformerless BOPA14 signal path provides a cleaner, more transparent response with tight bass reproduction and detailed frequency definition, particularly useful when capturing a mix or mastering chain that has already undergone analog processing. The BOPA14's discrete Class-A architecture uses a minimal transistor design developed through extensive listening tests to preserve clarity and musical detail. When paired with a BDA4M DAC featuring BX5 output transformers, the BAD4M can also create a transformer-based analog processing loop that introduces tonal weight and dimension without the tape hiss associated with traditional analog tape machines.

Precision Attenuation and Advanced Conversion Support Mastering Workflows

B2 BOMBER-style stepped attenuation provides repeatable input-level adjustments for critical mastering sessions, while selectable ADC filtering allows engineers to move between the classic Burl tonal response and a more aggressive character with a forward midrange. Avid delay matching helps align converter timing with compatible Avid interfaces, supporting accurate hardware insert operation in professional recording environments. The BAD4M delivers a frequency response of 10Hz–22kHz at 48kHz sampling and extends to 30kHz at 96kHz and 192kHz, providing detailed reproduction across the audio spectrum. With 115dB dynamic range, -96dB THD+N and a specified full-scale input level of +22dBu, the card is engineered for demanding mixing and mastering applications. Combining the BAD4M with a complementary BDA4M in a B16 Mothership creates a versatile four-input, four-output mastering system, giving engineers flexible analog character and high-resolution conversion within a compact, expandable platform.