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Recording, Mixing and Mastering

Karno SEPIA: the analog‑digital modular system for the modern studio

Published on 30/10/2025

Karno SEPIA: the modular analog-digital system for the modern studio

Introduction to the Karno SEPIA System

Karno's SEPIA system represents a new philosophy in professional audio equipment: a modular ecosystem that combines the quality of the pure analog path with the flexibility of digital control.

In practice, Karno has developed two core elements: a Host that houses multiple module slots and the modules themselves (preamps, EQs, compressors, and others) manufactured by several high-profile partners.

Why SEPIA is different

  • Full analog path: the signal remains analog from the microphone to the output thanks to "Bridging Signal Flow" technology.
  • Digital control: SEPIA modules are digitally controlled, without physical front-panel controls, allowing instant recall and integration with modern DAWs/workflows.
  • Modularity and scalability: you can start with one Host and populate it gradually, choosing modules from various partner brands.

Key features of the SEPIA system

  • Host in 1U rack format with 6 slots, designed to accommodate SEPIA modules.
  • Slots supporting certified analog modules, each with rear pin-metal connections (~21 pins) carrying audio, power and data.
  • Advanced internal routing: each slot has primary input, secondary (mic/line), and two outputs; ability to configure complex analog chains, side-chain, inter-module insert.
  • Compatibility with modules developed by established brands: partners such as API, SPL, Pope Audio, Malcolm Toft Audio, and others are announced at launch.

Variants of the SEPIA L6 Host.

The L6 1U 19" Rackmount model is the reference for the SEPIA system and comes in three main versions to suit different studio/live workflows:

  • L6 Analog Output: traditional analog outputs, ideal for pure analog chains.

  • L6 Dante I/O: supports Dante audio network, 8 channels of I/O up to 96 kHz, perfect for multi-channel environments and digital routing.

  • L6 MADI I/O: MADI interface for integration with broadcast or large studio systems.

Optional cards and I/O routing.

To extend flexibility, the L6 Host also supports optional cards for various I/O formats and advanced routing, including:

  • Assignable Analog Output card

  • Dante I/O card

  • MADI I/O card

Context of use and benefits

The SEPIA system is ideal for professional studios, tracking rooms, mixing rooms, and hybrid environments wherever desired:

  • True analog sound with headroom and professional quality
  • Routing flexibility and modularity: change modules, upgrade, configure custom routing
  • Digital recall and integration with DAW workflows: module parameters can be recalled, saved and recalled in session
  • A scalable investment: start with a few slots and modules, expanding as you go

SEPIA modules available

Modules launched for the SEPIA system include (among others):

Module Name Description Analog Module Digital Control Plugin
API 312 SEPIA Module Microphone Preamplifier Module Plugin Digital control
Drawmer DS101 SEPIA Module Noise-gate
HLabs EQ169DC SEPIA Module Equalizer SOON SOON
HLabs PRE169DC SEPIA Module Microphone Preamplifier
J-Type Classic EQ SEPIA Module Classic 4-band equalizer
J-Type Classic PRE SEPIA Module Classic Preamplifier
Langstrath MB12 SEPIA Module Preamp with Lundahl transformer
Langstrath EC24 SEPIA Module 4-Stage Compressor (Expander, Comps, Limiter)
Locomotive Audio POWER-MU SEPIA Module Tube Compressor
Lunatronics LM-1 SEPIA Module Channel Strip (Preamp, EQ, Comp) SOON SOON
Malcolm Toft PUNISHR SEPIA Module Colored Dynamics Processor
Malcolm Toft EQUATE SEPIA Module 6-band equalizer
Pope Audio BAX 2020 SEPIA Module Baxandall Equalizer
Pope Audio DIRTY-C SEPIA Module RE-501 Chorus style + Hi-z input +
Serpent Audio SB4001 SEPIA Module Quad VCA Stereo Compressor
Smart Research C2S SEPIA Module Stereo Compressor
SPL DeEsser SEPIA Module DeEsser
SPL Transient Designer SEPIA Module Dynamic envelope shaping
Thermionic The Culture Vulture SEPIA Module Stereo harmonic saturator SOON SOON
Universal Audio 1176 SEPIA Module Compressor
Useul Arts BFV SEPIA Module Tube Preamplifier SOON SOON
Useul Arts SMP-1 SEPIA Module Tube Preamplifier
XTA ALE XL4 EQ SEPIA Module Midas XL4 Microphone Preamplifier
XTA ALE XL4 EQ SEPIA Module Midas XL4 Equalizer SOON SOON

SEPIA system at a glance

Feature Description
Signal path Pure analog, without A/D-D/A conversion, due to host routing matrix
Control Digital, with parameter recall, preset saving and DAW integration
Modularity Hosts with interchangeable slots; partner-certified modules
Scalability Expandable over time with new modules and I/O cards
Studio compatibility Designed for tracking, mixing, mastering in hybrid or full-analog contexts

When to consider the SEPIA system?

  • Do you have a studio that wants to invest in a high-quality modular ecosystem
  • You want to mix and record with analog equipment, but with digital appeal
  • Want to expand over time: start with a Host and a few modules, and then grow
  • You already have an analog chain, but you want modularity and flexibility

It should be clear: the SEPIA system requires investment and proper studio design (power supply, racks, cabling, workflow). However, for those seriously working in professional production or mixing, it represents a platform that combines pure analog and modern flexibility.

Availability at Milk Audio Store

At our site you can find the SEPIA Host and numerous modules for the optimal setup of your studio.

Here are all Karno SEPIA modules and hosts 👉 https://www.milkaudiostore.com/intl/products/recording-mix/sepia-modules/

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