Golden Age Audio Project PRE-73 MKIV
Best classic analog sound for project studio engineers.
This 1-channel preamplifier delivers a distinct vintage sound character with a signal path free of integrated circuits, utilizing Tantalum capacitors. It offers up to 80 dB of gain, switchable high-pass filters, and an AIR EQ for versatile tone-shaping. The unit also includes switchable impedance, an output PAD, and +48V phantom power, making it suitable for a wide range of recording applications. Its robust build and 9.5" 1 U form factor make it a practical addition to any studio, providing flexibility for microphones, line-level sources, and instruments.
$327.00
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 Project Pre573 MKIII
$299.00
Golden Age Premier Pre-73
$499.00
Golden Age Project PRE-73 Premier Microphone Preamp
$499.00
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
251
/ 566
#251 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-80%
Below average
Channels
1
Who it's for
- Musicians and engineers seeking vintage analog warmth and sonic depth
- Project studio owners and home recordists on a budget
- Home studio users needing a versatile front-end for various instruments
Who should skip it
- Engineers desiring comprehensive channel strip functionality in one unit
- Mastering engineers demanding absolute pristine signal clarity
- Producers frequently recording stereo sources or full bands
Performance breakdown
Vintage Character
Discrete circuitry and Tantalum capacitors deliver authentic, warm harmonic saturation.
Gain Versatility
With 80 dB on tap, it handles ribbon mics and quiet sources effortlessly.
Tone Shaping
AIR EQ and dual high-pass filters provide essential control for modern tracking.
Input Flexibility
Switchable impedance and front-panel instrument inputs accommodate a wide range of gear.
Build Quality
Robust construction ensures long-term reliability in demanding studio environments.
Form Factor
Compact 9.5-inch design saves valuable rack space in smaller home setups.
Key Specs
Channels
1
Number of microphone inputs
1
Instrument input
Yes
Tubes
No
Compressor/Limiter
No
Equalizer
Yes
De-Esser
No
Phantom power
Yes
Know before you buy
The PRE-73 MKIV is designed to emulate a classic vintage preamp sound. By avoiding integrated circuits and using Tantalum capacitors, it provides a warm, colored, and punchy signal that adds character to your recordings.
Yes, the unit features a dedicated front-panel instrument input for guitars and basses, alongside a combo input on the rear for microphones and line-level sources.
The AIR EQ adds a subtle high-frequency boost, which helps bring out presence and clarity in vocals or acoustic instruments. It is a great way to add a 'finished' studio sheen to your tracks during the recording process.
Switching between 1200 Ohm and 300 Ohm allows you to change how the preamp interacts with your microphone's output. This can subtly alter the tone and gain response, giving you more flexibility to match the preamp to the specific character of different microphones.
The PRE-73 MKIV uses a compact 9.5-inch, 1U form factor. While it fits easily on a desktop, you will need a compatible rack tray or mounting kit if you intend to integrate it into a standard 19-inch studio rack.
The unit offers two switchable high-pass filter settings at 40 Hz and 170 Hz. These are useful for cleaning up low-end rumble or mud from your signal before it hits your interface or recording medium.
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