Golden Age Project Pre573 MKIII
Best vintage inspired preamp for budget conscious audio enthusiasts.
This 500-series microphone preamp module delivers the sought-after sound of classic 1073 designs within a versatile API rack format. It offers an extended gain range up to 80 dB, allowing for detailed control over your audio. Explore unique tonal shaping with switchable input impedance and a selectable AIR equalizer for enhanced high frequencies. A flexible DI input supports both active and passive modes, making it adaptable for various instruments. Additional features like a high-pass filter and insert jack provide further creative possibilities for any recording session.
$299.00
More PRE-73 Options
Age Project Pre-73 DLX Premier Microphone Preamp
$599.00
Golden Age Project PRE-73 DLX PREMIER
$649.00
Golden Age Project PRE573 Plus MKII
$399.00
Golden Age Project Pre-73 DLX MK II
$449.00
Golden Age Premier Pre-73
$499.00
Golden Age Project PRE-73 Premier Microphone Preamp
$499.00
Golden Age Audio Project PRE-73 MKIV
$327.00
Golden Age PRE-73 DLX MKII
$449.99
Golden Age Audio PRE-73 DLX MKII
$449.00
Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr PREMIER
$449.00
Golden Age Project PRE-73 JR Microphone Preamplifier
$193.59
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
232
/ 566
#232 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-82%
Below average
Gain Range
1080
/ - to + dB
Who it's for
- Home studio producers seeking classic analog warmth.
- Engineers needing a flexible preamp for diverse recording tasks.
- Budget-conscious studios desiring premium analog sound.
Who should skip it
- Purist engineers expecting an exact Neve 1073 replica.
- Users desiring an all-in-one channel strip solution.
- Professionals preferring integrated power solutions for rack stability.
Performance breakdown
Vintage Character
Captures the iconic 1073 warmth with impressive sonic authenticity.
Gain Versatility
Massive 80 dB range handles everything from ribbons to dynamic mics.
Tonal Shaping
Switchable impedance and AIR EQ offer excellent creative flexibility.
DI Flexibility
Dual-mode DI input accommodates both active and passive instruments seamlessly.
Integration Potential
Insert jack and 500-series format make external processing simple.
Build Quality
Solid transformer-based construction built for reliable studio performance.
Key Specs
Gain Range
-10 to +80 dB
Input Impedance
Switchable 1200 or 300 ohm (mic), ~1.5 Mohm (active DI), ~100 kohm (passive DI)
Output Impedance
600 ohm
Phantom Power
48V
High Pass Filter
Yes, two-position (approx. 45 Hz or 180 Hz)
DI Input
Active and Passive modes
Metering
Single LED for signal and overload
Insert Jack
Yes
Know before you buy
Yes, it features an extended gain range of up to 80 dB, which is more than sufficient to drive demanding ribbon and dynamic microphones cleanly.
Switching between 1200 and 300 ohms changes how the preamp loads the microphone. The 300-ohm setting typically results in a darker, more colored tone, while the 1200-ohm setting offers a more open and transparent sound.
Absolutely. The DI input is designed to handle both active and passive instruments, providing the correct impedance matching for each to ensure your signal remains clear and punchy.
The AIR EQ is a selectable high-frequency boost designed to add clarity and a 'sheen' to your recordings, helping vocals or acoustic instruments sit better in a dense mix.
Yes, the unit includes an insert jack that allows you to patch external processing gear directly into the signal chain after the preamp stage.
It is compatible with any standard 500-series rack that provides 48V phantom power. It also includes a soft-start circuit to protect your rack's power supply during startup.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.