Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $3,790

High-end/Boutique

$599

$2000+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 2 merchants for "BAE Audio 1028". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Achieve sonic excellence in your studio with the BAE 1028, a powerhouse preamp that merges vintage charm with modern versatility. This preamp, rooted in the iconic Neve 1073 circuit, is designed for professionals who demand impeccable sound quality and nuanced control. The BAE 1028 doesn't just replicate the past—it enhances it, offering an extended frequency selection that allows the mid band to seamlessly overlap with the high and low shelving bands. This expanded EQ palette empowers you to sculpt your sound with precision and creativity.

Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, the BAE 1028 boasts high-end Carnhill (St. Ives) transformers and is entirely hand-wired, ensuring the utmost in signal integrity. This commitment to quality doesn't stop at components; it extends to the sound. The preamp includes selectable midrange bandwidth and high and low-pass filters, inspired by the Neve 1084, providing an impressive 28 frequencies to explore. Whether you're looking to capture the warmth of a vocal performance or the depth of a bass track, the BAE 1028 stands ready to deliver.

Ideal for studios that value both the authenticity of vintage designs and the adaptability of modern technology, the BAE 1028 is a testament to craftsmanship and sonic excellence.

Key Features:

  • Neve 1073 circuit-based design
  • Expanded EQ with overlapping mid, high, and low bands
  • Hand-wired with Carnhill (St. Ives) transformers
  • Switchable midrange bandwidth and high/low-pass filters
  • 28 frequency settings for versatile tone shaping

Product specs

Brand BAE
Model 1028
Year 2010s
Categories Equalizers, Microphone Preamps

FAQs

What type of transformers are used in the BAE 1028 preamp?

The BAE 1028 preamp is hand-wired using Carnhill (St. Ives) transformers, known for their high-quality sound and reliability.

What are the selectable frequency options for the high-pass filter on the BAE 1028?

The high-pass filter on the BAE 1028 offers selectable frequencies at 45Hz, 70Hz, 160Hz, and 360Hz, with an 18dB per octave slope.

Can the equalizer on the BAE 1028 be bypassed?

Yes, the BAE 1028 features an EQ button that allows you to switch the equalizer on or off as needed.

What is the purpose of the phase button on the BAE 1028 preamp?

The phase button on the BAE 1028 preamp allows you to invert the phase by 180 degrees, which can help resolve phase-related issues in multi-microphone setups.

How does the BAE 1028 handle mid-range frequencies?

The BAE 1028 provides mid-range peaking with switchable selectable center frequencies, offering adjustments of +/-12dB or +/-18dB to shape your sound effectively.

BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO

Mark Loughman and Josh Homme

Video thumbnail for Mark Loughman and Josh Homme by BAE AUDIO

Mark Loughman and Josh Homme

BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO

Video thumbnail for GREG FIDELMAN:  BAE 1073, 1028, & 1032 MIC/PRE EQ by BAE AUDIO

GREG FIDELMAN: BAE 1073, 1028, & 1032 MIC/PRE EQ

BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO

Video thumbnail for GEAR & HARDWARE - My GO-TO Pre-Amp - Produce Like a Pro Clips by PLAP CLIPS

GEAR & HARDWARE - My GO-TO Pre-Amp - Produce Like a Pro Clips

PLAP CLIPS

PLAP CLIPS

Video thumbnail for BAE 1028 Neve Clone Review - Awesome Kick Drum Preamp & EQ by Drum Drum Drum

BAE 1028 Neve Clone Review - Awesome Kick Drum Preamp & EQ

Drum Drum Drum

Drum Drum Drum

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about BAE Audio 1028.

Use cases and applications

  • The BAE 1028 significantly enhances the kick drum's lower frequencies, providing a noticeable "oomf" in home drum recordings.

    Source
  • The BAE 1028 is particularly favored for its ability to enhance drum tracks, with users noting significant improvements in punch and clarity.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Purchased for $3550 through Vintage King during a sale, highlighting potential savings opportunities for buyers of this preamp.

    Source

User experience

  • After using the BAE 1028 for an album, it proved effective in delivering high-quality recordings, particularly for drum tracks.

    Source
  • Many users report that the BAE 1028 excels in adding a cohesive, uniform sound when used across multiple tracks, enhancing the overall mix quality.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BAE 1028 provides a weight and fullness to recordings that many find unmatched by DSP alternatives, making it a preferred choice over purely digital setups.

    Source
  • While API preamps are renowned for their punchiness on drums, the BAE 1028 is noted for its ability to add a unique weight and harmonic richness to a broader range of instruments.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The BAE 1028 is praised for its ease of use, allowing engineers to achieve desirable sounds quickly without extensive tweaking, streamlining the recording process.

    Source

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