Shure "Level-Loc" Returns

ANAHEIM, CA, January 22, 2025 – Originally introduced in the 1960s, the popular Shure M62V “Level-Loc” Audio Level Controller is returning as both a software plug-in and hardware tool. The famous Level-Loc technology has been painstakingly reproduced by Korneff Audio and Black Lion Audio, ensuring the unique sonic signature of the classic hardware is captured to its original specifications. Developed with the support of Shure and leading audio pioneers, the Level-Loc has never been more faithfully recreated.

Korneff Audio Level-Loc Software Plug-in

Korneff Audio collaborated with Shure to create a plug-in version of Level-Loc that can be used in all modern Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs).

"We had two goals making the plug-in," said Dan Korneff, President of Korneff Audio. "First of all, we wanted to nail the sound exactly. The Level-Loc is a simple circuit but it's very dynamic and interactive in the way it responds to signals. It has an unpredictable quality to it, which is essential as to why it's such an outstanding creative tool. We also wanted to take advantage of the increased functionality afforded by digital controls.”

Korneff Audio and mixing engineer Tchad Blake, who is credited with popularizing Level-Loc, flew to Chicago to unveil the prototype Level-Loc plug-in and run it through a series of tests with Shure. In addition to spec'ing-out virtually identical to a hardware unit, the Korneff plug-in sounded and reacted like the Level-Loc so loved by Mr. Blake. "I’m pinching myself watching the Korneff plug-in appear on my monitor and hearing the magic,” enthused Tchad.

The Korneff Level-Loc plug-in adds to the functionality of the original by providing the ability for a user to select a variety of attack and release times by choosing different component values as well as selectable impedances. The result is a plug-in version of the Level-Loc with flexibility that enables it to be used on a wide range of sources. "With the plug-in," says Mr. Korneff, "You can get a ton of that Level-Loc flavor, or just a tiny taste. You can put it anywhere on your mix and get something cool out of it."

The Level-Loc Plug-in is available now at https://korneffaudio.com/product/shure-level-loc/ for $149.99 USD and is currently $74.99 USD throughout the plug-in’s introductory period.

Black Lion Audio Level-Loc Hardware

The Black Lion Audio Level-Loc is a boutique re-creation of the classic, hard-to-find hardware compressor, developed in close partnership with Shure. The hardware delivers the sledgehammer compression and saturation capabilities of the original Level-Loc, while adding modern conveniences and connectivity not found on the original, including TRS input and output, +48V phantom power for condenser mics, mix control, line-level TRS output, an A15LA 50 dB pad, and an additional fixed release time option.

Black Lion Audio sourced original components where possible and, when that wasn’t possible, it worked with its partners to recreate parts to the original specification to ensure a real Shure Level-Loc was produced.

"The partnership with Shure has been amazing,” shared Preston Whiting, VP of Operations at Black Lion. “We share deep Chicago roots and an unmatched passion for audio. We couldn't ask for a better collaborator in bringing the Level-Loc back to life."

The Black Lion Level-Loc will be available for $499 MAP / 649 inc. VAT and will be shipping in Q2. For more information, visit: https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/compressors/level-loc/

The Legacy of the Level-Loc

The M62, also known as Shure Level-Loc, was first introduced in 1967 as part of a line of mixers aimed at live and broadcast audio, including the M67, M68, and M63EQ, among others. In 1969 the M62V was launched, an updated version of the Level-Loc, which included a volume knob.

The character of the Level-Loc attack and release is a big part of the sound people love. The more you drive the Level-Loc, the more it will start to break up, eventually reaching heavily distorted sounds. It was not designed for drums and other sources. In fact, in a twist of irony, at the time the Level-Loc was made, the primary goal was to minimize distortions and artifacts, not to accentuate them!

Level-Loc was discontinued in 1977. Due to Shure's history of manufacturing rugged and durable products, it is not uncommon to still find old, vintage M Series products in use today. Throughout the 80s and 90s, many of the M series products were decommissioned and stored in gear closets or sold at auctions, swap meets, flea markets, and garage sales.

Then in the late 90s and early 2000s interest in Level-Loc began to grow when GRAMMY-winning recording and mixing engineer Tchad Blake was asked about secret weapons he uses in the studio. Tchad raved about Level-Loc, saying it goes on every record he makes. So, starting in the early 2000s, a resurgence of interest in the Level-Loc began.

"We are thrilled to have the Shure Level-Loc make a comeback, thanks to our fantastic collaborators at Korneff Audio and Black Lion Audio,” shared Matt Engstrom, Senior Director of Licensing, at Shure. “Their dedication to preserving the iconic sound of the beloved hardware, while also adding modern enhancements in both the software and hardware formats, will be apparent to every audio engineer who has used the original. We couldn’t have asked for better partners to bring this classic tool back to life.”

Drop by Shure, Korneff Audio, and Black Lion Audio booths at NAMM to learn more about Level-Loc and the latest innovations from each company.

Shure is dedicated to helping those affected by the devastating fires in California during this extreme time of need. More information on Shure’s relief efforts can be found here.