Pricing and availability

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

Amazon
5.0 (2)
$449.00 New
$398.00 Used (Like New)
Reverb
$430.89 New
$398.00 Used
B&H
5.0 (1)
$449.00
Thomann
4.6 (8)
$428.00 $425.00 $3.00 · All time low

Average Price: $433

Budget/Beginner

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Unleash vintage tone with the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp, a must-have for any serious studio enthusiast. Designed to capture the essence of classic British desks, this preamp delivers authentic warmth and musical richness thanks to its discrete, Class-A signal path. Incorporating UK-made Carnhill transformers, the Pre-73 Jr Premier doesn’t just replicate a legendary sound; it elevates it. Perfectly suited for both dynamic and ribbon microphones, it offers 70dB of clean gain, providing ample headroom for any recording scenario.

The Pre-73 Jr Premier doesn't stop at just microphones; its versatile DI makes instruments like bass and keyboards sound full and lush. For those who crave tonal flexibility, it features dual high-pass filters to clean up low-end rumble and an 'Air' boost circuit for adding sparkle to vocals and mixes. Compact yet robust, this preamp is built to withstand the rigors of both studio and live environments.

Complete with a gold-plated I/O and a sleek, half-rack design, you can easily integrate multiple units into your setup using Golden Age's Unite Premier rack kit. Whether you’re after that classic vintage vibe or seeking to add a modern twist, the Pre-73 Jr Premier is your gateway to sonic excellence.

Key Features:

  • Discrete, Class-A signal path with transformer-balanced I/O
  • UK-made Carnhill input and output transformers
  • Gain range of 20-70dB
  • Selectable 'Air' boost (3dB/6dB at 30kHz) and high-pass filters (40Hz/170Hz)
  • Switchable phantom power and polarity reverse
  • High-impedance DI input for instruments
  • Combo XLR/TRS input and separate XLR and TRS outputs
  • TRS insert jack for outboard processing
  • Robust build quality with external power supply
  • Can be rack-mounted with up to 4 units in a 19-inch kit

Product specs

Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
Polarity Switch Yes
Analog Inputs 1 x XLR, 2 x 1/4"
Analog Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Channel Inserts Yes
Power Source AC power supply (included)

FAQs

What type of sound character can I expect from the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp?

The Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr offers a vintage-style sound with a warm, full-bodied character, reminiscent of classic 1970s solid-state preamps. It's ideal for adding depth and richness to vocals and instruments.

Does the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr support phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the Pre-73 Jr includes phantom power, allowing you to use it with condenser microphones that require a 48V power supply.

How does the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr handle high-gain applications?

The Pre-73 Jr is designed to handle high-gain applications well, providing clean gain with minimal noise, making it suitable for both dynamic and ribbon microphones.

What are the connectivity options available on the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr?

The Pre-73 Jr features 1 XLR input, 2 x 1/4" inputs, 1 XLR output, and 1 x 1/4" output, offering flexibility for various recording setups.

Is the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr suitable for home studio use?

Yes, the Pre-73 Jr's compact design and versatile sound make it an excellent choice for home studios looking to achieve a professional vintage sound.

Can I use the Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr with instruments as well as microphones?

Absolutely, the Pre-73 Jr is designed to accommodate both microphones and instruments, providing high-quality preamplification for a wide range of audio sources.

Reviews

PROS

  • Provides a powerful and rich low-mid frequency enhancement

  • Compact size fits easily into limited rack space

  • Front-side DI input for easy instrument connection

  • Good definition and pressure in the mid-range

  • Can be driven hotter without digital clipping

  • Sturdy metal casing for durability

  • Offers a distinct analog warmth compared to interface preamps

  • Affordable price for quality sound and build

  • Upgraded transformers enhance sound quality

CONS

  • Sensitive to placement, prone to interference from external devices

  • Rear power switch is inconveniently located

  • Gain knob can be inaccurately adjusted if over-turned

  • Large model name lettering may be visually unappealing

  • High-pass and air switches may degrade sound quality in some cases

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Golden Age Premiere Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp.

Use cases and applications

  • The Pre-73 Jr's color and character may not be ideal for voice-over work, where the Apollo Twin is often preferred for its transparency.

    Source
  • The Pre-73 Jr adds noticeable harmonic content and tonal shaping, making it versatile for character work and dialogue with mics like the AT4040.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Pre-73 Jr’s tonal shaping is adjustable through gain settings, allowing precise control over the harmonic content added to recordings.

    Source
  • The Apollo Twin without UAD plugins is comparable to an SSL2, highlighting the importance of plugins for maximizing its capabilities.

    Source
  • The Pre-73 Jr lacks a second gain stage and EQ, maxing out at 70dB, but excels in raw saturation due to its component choices.

    Source
  • The output knob acts as an attenuator, crucial for managing saturation without overloading interfaces.

    Source

Comparisons

  • When using ATH-M30 headphones, users may struggle to discern differences between Pre-73 Jr and stock preamps, suggesting the value of upgrading to DT 770s for clearer monitoring.

    Source
  • The Apollo Twin is noted for adding less distortion compared to the Golden Age Pre-73 Jr, resulting in clearer high frequencies with the TLM-103.

    Source
  • The TLM-103 paired with the Golden Age Pre-73 Jr is valued for its voice-over potential, contrasting with the more neutral Apollo Twin stock preamps.

    Source
  • Pre-73 Jr's saturation is described as more vibrant compared to higher-end clones like BAE and AMS Neve, which offer smoother saturation.

    Source
  • The Pre-73 Jr is not a 1073 clone but a Neve 1272 line amp clone, offering a unique sound profile.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners suggest that improving room treatment has a greater impact on recording quality than swapping preamps, especially for less experienced engineers.

    Source
  • Users transitioning from Apollo Twin to Golden Age Pre-73 Jr may initially perceive an improvement due to the novelty of its sound.

    Source
  • Early versions had power supply issues, but these have been addressed in newer models.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • UAD plugins are crucial for leveraging the full potential of Apollo Twin, offering more sonic variety and quality compared to stock preamps.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Pre-73 Jr is praised as possibly the best value in colored preamps, providing exceptional sound quality at a budget-friendly price point.

    Source

Build quality

  • Premier series models feel notably different due to high-quality components, especially the knobs, which enhance tactile experience.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Golden Age Premier Pre-73 Jr & EQ-73

soundonsound.com

Golden Age's Premier Pre-73 Jr Microphone Preamp offers a Neve-inspired sound that's both warm and rich, making it a solid choice for crafting a lovely DAW front end. The build quality is commendable, with the inclusion of Carnhill transformers adding weight and authenticity to the sound. The EQ's ability to function standalone or as a preamp insert adds versatility, enhancing its appeal. However, users should be cautious of phantom power on the combo socket's TRS input, and the minimal metering might not suit everyone. Overall, it's a great-sounding, well-built piece of gear for those seeking a vintage vibe without the vintage price.

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