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Based on price data from 3 merchants for "BAE Audio 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ with Power Supply". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Experience the iconic sound of the 1970s rock 'n' roll with the BAE 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ with Power Supply. This definitive British preamp/EQ brings the vintage sound to your studio with its hand-wired, transformer-coupled Class A design. It's not just a replica, but a faithful recreation designed with original-spec components, including the legendary Carnhill St. Ives transformers, Elma switches, and Canford wire.
With 80dB of gain available, the BAE 1073 Rackmount ensures you can record even the most subtle sounds with your favorite ribbon mic. Dial in the preamp gain for a hint of vintage-style coloration that adds character to your tracks. The built-in highpass filter lets you roll off low-frequency content, ensuring your recordings remain clean and clear.
The 1073's renowned 3-band EQ section is a valuable tool in any audio engineer's arsenal. It's capable of enhancing anything you throw at it, delivering the punchy equalization that the original 1073 modules were famous for. The BAE 1073 Rackmount, donned in the classic RAF blue-gray, is a legend reborn.
Key Features:
- All Class A, hand-wired transformer-coupled design
- 80dB of gain on tap handles low-output ribbon mics
- Highpass filter: Off, 50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, and 300Hz
- 3-band EQ section
- HF: +/-16dB shelving, 12kHz fixed frequency
- MF: +/-18dB peaking, fixed Q, selectable center frequencies at 360Hz, 700Hz, 1.6kHz, 3.2kHz, 4.8kHz, and 7.2kHz
- LF: +/-16dB shelving, selectable center frequencies at 35Hz, 60Hz, 110Hz, and 220Hz
- Handles line-level inputs for added versatility
- High-impedance DI for guitar, bass, synth, and other sources
- Polarity reverse switch
- Original-spec components include Carnhill St. Ives transformers, Elma switches, and Canford wire
- Frequency response: 10Hz-55kHz (-3dB)
- Mic input impedance selector switches between 1200 and 300 ohms
- Line input impedance: 10k ohms; DI Input Impedance 150k ohms
- Output impedance: 35 ohms
- Common mode rejection ratio: 100dB min at 60Hz
- Maximum output level: +27.4 dBu at 600ohms
- Regulated linear power supply runs up to two channels
Product specs
| Preamp Type | Solid State Mic/Line Preamp |
| Number of Channels | Single channel |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| EQ | High/Low Shelving EQ, 3-band EQ (adjustable mid center frequency), High Pass Filters: 50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, 300Hz |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz-55kHz (-3dB) |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x XLR (mic), 1 x XLR (line), 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z) |
| Analog Outputs | 1 x XLR |
| Rack Spaces | 1U |
| Power Source | External power supply included |
| Height | 1.75" |
| Depth | 9" |
| Width | 19" |
| Weight | 6 lbs. |
FAQs
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What are the key features of the BAE 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ?
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The BAE 1073 features a solid-state mic/line preamp with high/low shelving EQ, a 3-band EQ with adjustable mid frequencies, and high pass filters at 50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, and 300Hz. It includes phantom power and offers XLR and Hi-Z inputs, making it versatile for various recording applications.
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Is the BAE 1073 Rackmount suitable for vocal recordings?
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Yes, the BAE 1073 is renowned for enhancing vocal recordings with its classic Neve-inspired sound, providing warmth and clarity thanks to its high-quality preamp and EQ section. It's a popular choice for professional studios aiming for rich, detailed vocal tracks.
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Does the BAE 1073 Rackmount come with a power supply?
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Yes, the BAE 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ includes an external power supply, ensuring optimal performance and reliability for studio use.
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How does the BAE 1073 Rackmount compare to other preamps?
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The BAE 1073 is highly regarded for its vintage Neve 1073 sound, offering exceptional warmth and musicality. Its robust build and detailed EQ section make it a standout choice for professionals seeking classic analog character in their recordings.
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Can the BAE 1073 Rackmount handle both mic and line level sources?
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Yes, the BAE 1073 Rackmount is designed to accommodate both mic and line level sources with its dedicated XLR inputs, providing flexibility for various recording setups.
Videos
soundpurestudios
1073-Style Preamp Blind Shootout: WA273-EQ vs. Vintech X73i vs. BAE 1073 vs. Great River MP-2NV
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about BAE Audio 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ with Power Supply.
Comparisons
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The BAE 1073 is noted for having more "girth" compared to the Neve 1073, which is described as sounding "sweeter."
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The BAE 1073 MPF is noted to add a "little magic" to vocals, bass DI, and acoustic instruments, outperforming cheaper preamps such as the Alctron 73.
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The BAE unit is considered closer to vintage Neve 1073 sound than the Neve 1073 DPX2, offering a more faithful emulation.
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BAE modules are seen as more stable and reliable in daily use compared to modern Neve units, according to experienced users.
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Build quality
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The BAE 1073 is recognized for its hand-wired, hand-built construction, which owners report allows it to be pushed further with excellent results.
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The BAE 1073 uses Carnhill transformers, regarded as the closest modern equivalent to the vintage Marinair transformers used in original Neve units.
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It’s noted that the BAE 1084 is hand-wired with the same transformers as vintage Neves, enhancing its authenticity and sound quality.
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Features and functionality
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The BAE 1073 with EQ is highlighted as the preferred model for achieving the authentic 1073 sound, similar to the vintage Neve console versions.
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The BAE 1073's output trim can be adjusted using a thumbnail or guitar pick, offering a more practical alternative to using a screwdriver.
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Some users report the BAE unit's sound can alter low/high frequencies when gain is increased, adding unique character.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners appreciate the BAE 1073 EQ for its ability to be fully engaged without sounding "funky," indicating robust tonal flexibility.
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Value and pricing
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The BAE 1073 is compared favorably to other models, with some users suggesting it as the best version for those prioritizing sound quality.
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A single-channel BAE 1073 MP is recommended as a more affordable option compared to the full 1073 units, offering quality without the EQ functions.
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User experience
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Some users note that the 500 series units, including the BAE 1073, can be prone to noise issues, particularly an 8kHz buzz, if used in an incompatible rack.
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Owners of BAE preamps who also use vintage Neves often find the BAE to be interchangeable in professional settings, reflecting high satisfaction with BAE's build quality.
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Artist usage
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In the user-uploaded photo, Mk.gee can be seen using the BAE 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ with Power Supply, highlighted by a red circle.
In the YouTube video titled "Nas & Hit-Boy Presents Magic 3: The Final Act (Episode 2)," Nas is seen at 1:23 in Hit-Boy's studio, with the BAE Audio 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ visible in the background. Additionally, Hit-Boy confirms in a Sound on Sound article that Nas was recorded using a Sony C-800G microphone, routed through the 1073, and then into the Tube-Tech CL1B, highlighting the setup's effectiveness in capturing vocals for the album "Magic 3." He also mentions he produced Nas' vocals on their projects together.
Album Usage
The BAE Audio 1073 Rackmount Microphone Preamp & EQ with Power Supply has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
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