Golden Age Audio PRE-73 MKIV Mic/Line/Instrument Preamplifier

Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV Overview
The Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV is a powerful, one-channel mic/line/instrument preamp that delivers a blend of classic British console sound and modern versatility. Perfect for those seeking vintage-style analog warmth, this preamp boasts 80dB of gain, making it easy to mic even quiet sources like passive ribbon microphones. Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or line-level signals, the Pre-73 MKIV gives you the ability to capture the true essence of your sound with its smooth, punchy, and musical character. With a variety of essential features and a compact design, this preamp brings the iconic "73" sound to your studio at an accessible price.

Classic British Console Sound with Modern Features
Inspired by the legendary 1073 preamp, the Pre-73 MKIV captures the warm, punchy sound of vintage British consoles, with a tonal palette that ranges from clean and transparent to rich and musical. This preamp employs point-to-point wiring with no surface-mount components or integrated circuits, ensuring that the signal path is as pure as possible. By incorporating UK-made transformers, the Pre-73 MKIV delivers a rich, full-bodied sound that is perfect for a wide variety of sound sources. Whether you're using it for vocals, guitars, or any other instrument, the Pre-73 MKIV enhances your recordings with a timeless vintage flavor.

Versatile Gain Control and Tonal Flexibility
With 80dB of gain, the Pre-73 MKIV is equipped to handle everything from low-output passive ribbon mics to louder sound sources. The gain control is simplified by the inclusion of a Mic/Line switch, allowing easy adjustments to suit different input types. The preamp also features a switchable impedance function (1,200 or 300 ohms) for the mic input, enabling you to customize the tone for a variety of microphones. Additionally, the 2-position AIR EQ allows you to boost high frequencies by 3dB or 6dB at 30kHz, giving your recordings a subtle sheen and airiness that adds dimension and clarity to your mixes.

Tone-Shaping Capabilities for Custom Sound
The Pre-73 MKIV includes a high-pass filter with selectable frequency options and a 14dB output pad, giving you even more control over your recordings. The high-pass filter removes unwanted low-end rumble, allowing you to shape the sound with precision. This preamp also allows you to drive the main gain stage for additional character, then use the output level control to adjust the signal to the desired level. The 4-step LED output level meter provides clear and easy monitoring, ensuring you maintain optimal levels throughout your recording process.

Flexible Connectivity and Robust Build Quality
Designed for maximum flexibility, the Pre-73 MKIV is equipped with both XLR and TRS combo input jacks, as well as separate XLR and TRS output jacks, giving you the ability to connect various types of audio equipment. The preamp also features an insert jack, allowing you to patch in your favorite outboard EQs or compressors for further sound shaping. The robust, boutique-quality build ensures the Pre-73 MKIV can withstand years of studio use, and the included external power supply isolates the audio circuits from any potential interference, ensuring the cleanest possible signal.

Compact and Efficient for Rackmount Use
Despite its comprehensive feature set, the Pre-73 MKIV is housed in a compact chassis, making it easy to integrate into any studio setup. The small form factor also allows for efficient rackmounting, with the ability to mount multiple units in a single 19-inch rack space using the optional rackmount kit. Whether you're setting up a home studio or outfitting a professional space, the Pre-73 MKIV is an excellent solution for adding high-quality, vintage-style preamplification to your recording chain.