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Golden Age Project Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp – Discontinued

94
GEARANK
94 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.
$219.99
Golden Age Project

Cons

  • Not for purists looking for a 1:1 Neve 1073 replica

Pros

  • Brings the Neve sound within reach to many
  • Great build quality and components
  • No compromises on the circuitry

The Golden Age Pre 73 Jr is the little sibling of the standard Pre 73, which in turn is based on the classic Neve 1073 preamp.

Featuring discrete (no IC’s) circuitry similar to the original, the Pre-73 Jr is an affordable take on a well-loved classic.

Overloading the preamp gain adds character and punch while maintaining clarity.

The classic 1073 style preamp has been heard on countless recordings but the price of an original unit excludes all but the most high-end recording studios. Getting the signature N-style preamp sound at this price point is definitely a plus especially for those looking for that sound on a budget. Despite being very simplistic and even more minimal than its bigger brother Pre 73, what matters most for users is the harmonic content it adds to raw tracks that make them punchier and easier to mix.

For it to be great value however, you may need microphones that pair well with it. No-name mics with dubious quality won’t do because preamps are made to complement and enhance what’s already there.

This is your ticket to get that famous 1073 sound in your mixes: bold, punchy and smooth at the high frequencies. It provides all the character you need to take your mixes up a level.

Specifications

  • Channels: 1
  • Mic Preamps: 1 Class A Mic Preamp
  • Input Connectors: 1 x XLR-1/4″ combo (mic), 1 x 1/4″ (Hi-Z)
  • Output Connectors: 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″
  • Controls: Gain, Phantom Power, Phase, D.I. Switch, Output

Rating Source Highlights

WebsiteSource*Rating Value
MusicTechJohn Pickford90/100
YouTubePerSona Music92/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm’s adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.