Pricing and availability

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

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$3,435.00
Guitar Center
4.0 (1)
$3,435.00
Amazon
$3,435.00
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$6,375.00 New
$3,000.00 Used
Musician's Friend
$3,435.00

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "BAE Audio - 1073". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unlock the iconic sound of '70s rock with the BAE Audio 1073, a studio recording marvel designed for those who crave authentic vintage tone. Handcrafted to perfection, this rackmount unit is a faithful recreation of the legendary 1073 preamp module, revered for its musical warmth and character. Built with original-spec components like St. Ives transformers and Elma switches, it promises to deliver the signature Neve sound that has shaped countless hits.

Whether you're working in a state-of-the-art studio or setting up a mobile rig, the 1073 offers unrivaled performance with up to 80dB of pristine gain. Capture the subtle nuances of microphones, from ribbons to condensers, with ease. Its 3-band EQ section is your tool for sonic sculpting, offering punchy midrange control and silky highs that can enhance any track. Utilize the highpass filter to eliminate unwanted low-end rumble, ensuring clarity in every recording.

The BAE 1073 is more than just a piece of gear—it's a piece of recording history. Its rugged 2U rack chassis ensures durability for both studio and live environments. With XLR and TRS connections, plus a quiet external power supply, this signal processor is designed for versatility and reliability. Whether you're capturing the raw energy of a live performance or refining tracks in the studio, the 1073 Rackmount is your gateway to legendary sound.

Key Features:

  • Handwired, transformer-coupled Class A design
  • Up to 80dB of gain for handling low-output mics
  • 3-band EQ with HF, MF, and LF controls
  • Highpass filter with multiple frequency options
  • Original-spec components: Carnhill St. Ives transformers, Elma switches
  • Rugged 2U rack chassis with flexible connectivity options
  • External regulated linear power supply for quiet operation

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

What makes the BAE 1073 Rackmount Mic Preamp & EQ stand out for studio recording?

The BAE 1073 is renowned for its warm, musical sound and versatility, making it ideal for vocals, drums, and various other sources. Its three-band EQ with adjustable mid frequencies and high/low shelving provides precise tonal shaping.

Does the BAE 1073 Rackmount include phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the BAE 1073 Rackmount includes phantom power, allowing you to use condenser microphones seamlessly.

What connectivity options does the BAE 1073 Rackmount offer?

The BAE 1073 Rackmount features 1 x XLR mic input, 1 x XLR line input, 1 x 1/4" Hi-Z input, and 1 x XLR output, providing versatile connectivity for various studio setups.

How does the EQ on the BAE 1073 Rackmount enhance audio processing?

The BAE 1073 Rackmount's EQ includes high/low shelving and a 3-band EQ with adjustable mid frequencies, allowing precise control over your sound to achieve the desired tonal balance.

Is the BAE 1073 Rackmount suitable for professional studio use?

Absolutely, the BAE 1073 Rackmount is highly regarded in professional studios for its classic sound character and robust build, making it a staple for high-quality audio recording and processing.

Produce Like A Pro

Produce Like A Pro

Recording Guitar & Bass with the BAE 1073 - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro

Video thumbnail for Recording Guitar & Bass with the BAE 1073 - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro by Produce Like A Pro

Recording Guitar & Bass with the BAE 1073 - Warren Huart: Produce Like A Pro

Produce Like A Pro

Produce Like A Pro

Video thumbnail for Vance Powell BAE 1073 on vocals by BAE AUDIO

Vance Powell BAE 1073 on vocals

BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO

Video thumbnail for BAE AUDIO : 1073 MIC PRE/EQ - INSIDE OUT by BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO : 1073 MIC PRE/EQ - INSIDE OUT

BAE AUDIO

BAE AUDIO

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about BAE Audio - 1073.

Use cases and applications

  • The 1073 is often used in rock music with aggressive coloration by pushing the gain up and reducing the output, especially with dynamic mics like the RE20.

    Source
  • The 1073 is favored for its ability to enhance both DI and amp signals, often used to balance clean DI tones with gritty amp character for specific musical needs.

    Source
  • The Empirical Labs EL-9 Mike-E is praised for its low noise performance, especially when used with the SM7B microphone without a cloud lifter.

    Source
  • The Golden Age Project Premier73 is used for mic preamp, bass DI, and coloring DAW tracks, praised for its versatile input/output options.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The 1073 can be used interchangeably on DI signals or amp mics, but users find it may saturate differently, with the DI offering a cleaner sound.

    Source
  • BAE 1073 has more gain compared to the Empirical Labs EL-9 Mike-E, which is better for low-output mics like ribbons or some dynamic mics.

    Source
  • The Vintech X73 is praised for its similarity to the original Neve sound, with some users unable to distinguish differences in blind tests.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Pushing the gain on the 1073 while lowering the output is recommended to achieve its characteristic color, which can be tailored for clean or gritty tones.

    Source
  • BAE 1073 is noted for its high-fidelity sound, while the Empirical Labs EL-9 Mike-E includes an in-line VCA compressor for versatile studio use.

    Source
  • The AML 1073's output trim uses a flathead screw mechanism, which can be cumbersome for frequent adjustments but is described as a "set-and-forget" feature.

    Source

User experience

  • Users appreciate the BAE 1073 for its warm sound due to added 2nd and 3rd order harmonics, which offers a colored tone.

    Source
  • The Warm Audio 73 preamp is criticized for using gyrator circuits instead of inductors in some EQ bands, affecting the authenticity of its sound.

    Source

Build quality

  • The BAE 1073's output transformer is critical for sound quality; Carnhill transformers are noted for their accuracy to the original Marinair models.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users noted the AML 1073's susceptibility to noise, particularly an 8kHz buzz, when used in certain 500 series racks.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Some users find the BAE 1073 more expensive than AMS Neve options, questioning the price-to-value ratio for a clone.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Tyler Joseph uses BAE Audio - 1073

Tyler Joseph

Singer, Bassist

Twenty One Pilots

...
Verified via Photo

In this post by @neat.audio on instagram, Tyler Joseph's full audio rack can be seen and the 1073 is visible at the top left. This is used as a microphone preamp with an EQ so he most likely uses this for his vocals, bass, guitar, etc...

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 BAE Audio - 1073, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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