Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (6)
$1,285.00
Amazon
3.8 (15)
$1,285.00
Reverb
5.0 (12)
$939.95 New
$949.35 Used
Thomann
4.9 (95)
$933.00 $915.00 $18.00 · All time low
Vintage King
5.0 (40)
$1,285.00

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "AMS Neve 1073LB". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Elevate your studio recordings with the AMS-Neve 1073 LB, a legendary piece of gear now ingeniously adapted for the 500 Series format. This iconic preamp retains the celebrated, rich sound character and unparalleled warmth of its console-based predecessor, bringing the revered Neve audio magic right into your rack. With its straightforward interface, including hand-wound transformers and discrete circuitry, the 1073LB ensures every recording shines with professional polish. Whether you're laying down vocals, guitars, or any instrument in between, this preamp is your ticket to top-tier sound quality, beloved in studios around the world.

Key Features:

  • 500 Series format adaptation of the legendary 1073 console preamp
  • Hand-wound transformers and totally discrete circuitry for iconic Neve sound
  • Front-panel features include 48V phantom power, polarity reversal, and impedance switching
  • Dedicated switch for engaging the front combo jack and cutting the input signal
  • Designed to deliver the classic, fat, and polished tone across all recordings

Owner's manual

AMS Neve 1073LB User Manual

Product specs

Preamp Type 500 Series Solid State Preamp
Number of Channels 1
Frequency Response 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5dB)
Phantom Power Yes
Pads -20dB (trim)
Polarity Switch Yes
Analog Inputs 1 x XLR/1/4" TRS combo (mic/line)
Module Slot Size Single
Power Usage +16V/120mA, -16V/110mA
Depth 5.75"
Weight 2.5 lbs.

FAQs

What makes the AMS Neve 1073LB preamp unique compared to other 500 series preamps?

The AMS Neve 1073LB is renowned for its classic Neve sound, offering unparalleled clarity and warmth. It features transformers on both input and output stages, providing the signature character that has made Neve preamps legendary in the recording industry.

Is the AMS Neve 1073LB suitable for vocals and instruments?

Yes, the AMS Neve 1073LB excels with both vocals and instruments, delivering a rich, full-bodied sound. Its versatile design makes it ideal for a wide range of recording applications, from voice to acoustic and electric instruments.

Does the AMS Neve 1073LB provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the AMS Neve 1073LB includes phantom power, allowing it to be used with condenser microphones that require external power.

What are the connectivity options for the AMS Neve 1073LB preamp?

The AMS Neve 1073LB features a single XLR/1/4" TRS combo input, supporting both mic and line-level signals, making it versatile for various studio setups.

Can the AMS Neve 1073LB be used in any 500 series rack?

Yes, the AMS Neve 1073LB is designed to fit standard 500 series racks, making it a flexible choice for integrating into existing studio equipment setups.

Harv Video/Audio Stuff

Harv Video/Audio Stuff

1073 Preamp Comparison (AMS Neve, BAE, Audio Maintenance) at Stage2 Studios

Video thumbnail for 1073 Preamp Comparison (AMS Neve, BAE, Audio Maintenance) at Stage2 Studios by Harv Video/Audio Stuff

1073 Preamp Comparison (AMS Neve, BAE, Audio Maintenance) at Stage2 Studios

Harv Video/Audio Stuff

Harv Video/Audio Stuff

Video thumbnail for Neve 1073 LB VS Neve 88R LB Demo & Review by Alec Brits

Neve 1073 LB VS Neve 88R LB Demo & Review

Alec Brits

Alec Brits

Video thumbnail for AMS Neve 1073LB vs Chandler Limited TG2-500 (Shootout) by Peter Glavanov

AMS Neve 1073LB vs Chandler Limited TG2-500 (Shootout)

Peter Glavanov

Peter Glavanov

Video thumbnail for Presonus Preamp VS NEVE 1073LB Preamp PART 1 (With No EQ or Compression) by Clipstreet Sounds

Presonus Preamp VS NEVE 1073LB Preamp PART 1 (With No EQ or Compression)

Clipstreet Sounds

Clipstreet Sounds

Video thumbnail for AMS Neve 1073LB Review [500-Series Mono Mic Preamp Module] by Higher HZ

AMS Neve 1073LB Review [500-Series Mono Mic Preamp Module]

Higher HZ

Higher HZ

Reviews

PROS

  • Instantly noticeable sound improvement: more three-dimensional, warmer, and clearer

  • Enhances both vocals and instruments, providing life to recorded material

  • Versatile for various recording needs (acoustic, electric, DI bass/guitar)

  • Recognized for its iconic, industry-standard quality in professional studios

  • Lacks EQ but pairs well with other gear, providing flexibility in setups

  • Portable, fits into the 500 series ecosystem, facilitating mobile setups

  • Contributes an "x factor" to mixes, elevating overall sound quality

CONS

  • Lacks a mounting key, creating inconvenience during installation

  • Requires additional purchases (e.g., EQ, compressor) for full functionality

  • May not be intuitive for beginners, with limited online tutorials for operation

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about AMS Neve 1073LB.

Comparisons

  • The Neve 1073 SPX and the BAE 1073 are recommended for a 'true' 1073 sound, with the SPX sounding sweeter and the BAE having more girth.

    Source
  • Great River ME-1NV is frequently praised alongside the Neve 1073LB for its exceptional tonal qualities.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 1073N is a console module that can be used standalone, in a console, or in a Neve 45 series rack.

    Source
  • AML 1073 units feature Carnhill transformers, closely related to the original Marinair transformers, providing authentic vintage Neve sound characteristics.

    Source
  • The AML 1073's output trim requires a flathead screwdriver for adjustment but can be manipulated with a thumbnail or guitar pick for convenience.

    Source
  • Neve 1073LB's components have been replaced with surface mount equivalents, including ICs, and one transformer is smaller, raising questions about its authenticity.

    Source
  • DPD includes a high-quality converter with digital outputs and DSD, differentiating it from the DPA, which lacks these digital features.

    Source

Build quality

  • Hand-wired, hand-built exact replicas like the 1073 and 1084 can be pushed further without sounding funky, especially with EQ adjustments.

    Source
  • The 19” rack version of the 1073 includes the 2N3055 Motorola transistor, unlike the 500 series, offering no compromise on design.

    Source

User experience

  • Users note skepticism about perceptible differences in sound between 24+V and 32+V power supplies, suggesting any differences might be minimal or due to design flaws.

    Source
  • A shorting issue with the 2N3055 transistor to ground during EZ1073 assembly was reported, with similar experiences from other users and limited support from AML.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report a potential 8kHz buzz in some 500 series racks, indicating sensitivity to rack-specific noise issues.

    Source
  • The EZ1073 build is challenging, with switches operating in reverse (down to turn on), and solder pads that require top-side soldering due to pre-trimmed leads.

    Source
  • EZ1073's solder pads absorb heat rapidly, complicating solder flow, especially when connected to the ground plane.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Golden Age Project Premier73 is used as both a mic preamp and a DI for bass, utilizing Carnhill transformers for versatile applications.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Brent Averill (BAE) 1073 preamps are noted for their near-interchangeability with vintage Neve units, offering high build quality and tone.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Neve 1073LB & 1073LB EQ

soundonsound.com

The AMS Neve 1073LB and 1073LB EQ successfully bring the iconic 1073 preamp and EQ to the 500-series Lunchbox format, maintaining the classic Neve sound with high-quality engineering. While the compact design results in some control compromises, like the non-standard dual-concentric switch for the high-shelf control, the modules retain their sonic character and versatility. The preamp's rich tonal qualities and flexible insert mode make it a valuable addition to any setup. However, the ease of accidentally toggling phantom power when adjusting the Trim control is a minor frustration. Overall, these modules are a top-notch modern take on a legendary design.

positive

AMS Neve: 1073LB 500-series mic preamp | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

The AMS Neve 1073 LB delivers the classic Neve sound at a more accessible price, making it a solid addition to any studio's 500-series rack. Its sound quality excels across various instruments, often outshining other preamps in A/B tests. However, its compact design introduces minor issues like limited trim attenuation and a cumbersome phantom power switch. The 1073LB lacks the EQ section of its vintage counterparts, which might disappoint purists. Despite these drawbacks, it stands as a great preamp choice, offering the revered Neve signature at a reasonable cost.

positive

Review: Neve 1073LB 500 - Audio Media International

audiomediainternational.com

The AMS Neve 1073LB 500 series preamp delivers the classic Neve sound with modern conveniences. It’s well-crafted, offering a charming sonic character that brings out the best in any microphone, from an SM57 to a Neumann U87. While the absence of a proper input meter is a minor gripe, the LED indicators suffice for setting gain levels. Its compact design may limit control options, but it efficiently packs a lot of quality into a smaller, more affordable package. For those seeking the iconic Neve warmth without the hefty vintage price tag, the 1073LB is a solid recommendation.

positive

The Neve 1073 LB Reviewed by Nic Hard — SonicScoop

sonicscoop.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ferdous uses AMS Neve 1073LB

Ferdous

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Klyne

...
Verified via Photo

can be seen in this post from April 9, 2016

See how Fabiana Palladino uses AMS Neve 1073LB

Fabiana Palladino

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Unverified

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use AMS Neve 1073LB, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

Show yours
ryan_kay

ryan_kay

Gear IQ 59

G

ghost_ryder

Gear IQ 52

3 alternative and related items for AMS Neve 1073LB, curated by the Equipboard community.

AMS Neve 1073

$3,205.39 - $4,115.00

high-end alternative
Behringer 73 Microphone Preamp

$189.00 - $249.00

cheaper alternative

A more affordable option from Behringer, with similar controls to the 1073 LB.

Vintech Audio 573

$695.00

similar sound

A more affordable take on a 1073 Mic Pre, in a 500 series format.

More AMS Neve Preamps

AMS Neve 1073

$3,205.39 - $4,115.00

# 4

Rank

Billie Joe Armstrong Kevin Parker John Mayer
86 artists using
AMS Neve 1073DPA

$1,950.56 - $2,830.00

# 8

Rank

Steven Wilson Avicii Matt Berry
12 artists using
AMS Neve 1073 SPX Preamp / EQ

$1,599.00 - $2,095.00

# 11

Rank

Geddy Lee Keshi Andy Morin
9 artists using
AMS Neve 1073N

$2,078.59 - $4,115.00

# 57

Rank

Richie Kotzen Joel Corry
2 artists using
Avalon VT-737SP

$2,250.00 - $4,111.00

# 1

Rank

Matthew Bellamy Skrillex Ed Sheeran
106 artists using
API 512c

$835.38 - $968.00

# 2

Rank

Kevin Parker Jack White Ray Toro
33 artists using
Focusrite ISA One

$499.00 - $699.99

# 5

Rank

Mac DeMarco Lil Peep Bonobo
10 artists using
Universal Audio 4-710D

$1,750.00 - $1,999.00

# 6

Rank

Ray Toro Dijon Oneohtrix Point Never
10 artists using
Radial Tonebone PZ-Pre

$333.00 - $464.00

# 9

Rank

Chris Cornell James Taylor Masaru Teramae
11 artists using
Rupert Neve Designs 511

$766.00 - $849.00

# 10

Rank

Josh Dun Oliver Ackermann Bibio
5 artists using
Warm Audio WA73-EQ

$729.00 - $899.00

# 12

Rank

George Clanton Josh Turner nothing,nowhere.
6 artists using
Focusrite OctoPre MkII

 

# 13

Rank

Kevin Parker Brian Eno Ulrich Wild
5 artists using

Accessories & Related Items

Gear Guides