Heritage Audio HA81A 73-Style Microphone Preamp & 81-Style EQ

Heritage Audio HA81A Microphone Preamp & EQ Overview
The Heritage Audio HA81A Microphone Preamp & EQ combines the best of two legendary British console modules to create an all-in-one solution for superior recording and mixing. With its all-discrete, Class A 73-style preamp and 81-style EQ, the HA81A delivers that iconic, vintage Neve sound while providing modern flexibility and control. Whether you're tracking vocals, instruments, or mixing your tracks, this powerful 1U rackmount channel strip provides the warmth, punch, and definition that has made these classic designs a staple in world-class studios. Now, you can bring that same professional-grade sound to your own studio setup, all at an affordable price.

Classic 73-Style Preamp for Rich, Vintage Sound
The HA81A’s 73-style preamp section is where the magic begins. Featuring 80dB of gain, it’s more than capable of handling even the most demanding microphones, including low-output passive ribbon mics. The Class A design, combined with premium Carnhill and St. Ives input/output transformers, delivers a signature sound that is harmonically rich, with a resonant low end, focused midrange, and euphoric highs. As you push the input gain, the preamp introduces a pleasing saturation, adding vintage flavor and warmth to your tracks. Whether you're recording delicate vocals or punchy guitar, this preamp brings an unmistakable character that only a vintage-inspired, transformer-coupled preamp can provide.

81-Style EQ for Precision and Musicality
The EQ section of the HA81A is inspired by the 1081, a 4-band parametric EQ renowned for its flexibility and musicality. With overlapping low and high-mid bands, plus high and low shelving filters, the 81-style EQ provides unparalleled control over your sound. The midrange bands are parametric, allowing you to sweep through a broad frequency range to pinpoint and adjust specific tones. This is ideal for shaping vocals, guitars, drums, or any other source material that requires precision EQ adjustments. The low and high bands, equipped with the characteristic Baxandall curves, allow for smooth, musical boosts or cuts, ensuring that your mix retains its clarity and punch.

Versatility for Any Studio or Application
The HA81A is designed to handle a variety of sources with ease. In addition to the versatile EQ, the preamp section features a broad gain-range DI, line input, and switchable impedance options to optimize the response for a wide range of microphones and instruments. The 20dB pad ensures that even the most powerful sound sources can be recorded cleanly, while phantom power, polarity reverse, and a high-pass filter add to the flexibility. Whether you're working with condenser mics, dynamic mics, or direct instruments, the HA81A offers the adaptability needed to capture exceptional sound every time.

Built with Quality and Durability in Mind
Heritage Audio’s HA81A is handcrafted in Spain, with meticulous attention to detail and using only the highest-quality components. The module is built to the exacting standards of classic British console designs, ensuring longevity and reliable performance. Housed in a durable 1U rackmount chassis with a classic RAF gray faceplate, the HA81A is designed to be both functional and visually appealing, fitting seamlessly into any studio setup. The module is powered by an external universal power supply, making it suitable for worldwide use and ensuring that it will serve you for many years to come.