Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$259.00 $229.95 $29.05 · All time low
Amazon
4.3 (8)
$229.95
Reverb
$259.00 New
$200.00 Used
B&H
5.0 (1)
$259.00
Thomann
3.9 (10)
$243.00 $242.00 $1.00 · All time low

Average Price: $242

Budget/Beginner

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII Microphone Preamp". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

The Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII Microphone Preamp is a modern marvel for those seeking the timeless warmth and character of classic analog sound. This one-channel preamp boasts a signal path free of integrated circuits, relying instead on discrete components like resistors, capacitors, and transistors to faithfully capture the essence of the legendary 1073 module. With its vintage-inspired design, the PRE-73 Jr. MkII delivers a sound that is as rich and musical as it is versatile, making it an invaluable tool for any studio setup.

Engineered to perfection, this preamp features a switchable high-pass filter and a two-stage Air EQ, providing flexibility and precision in shaping your audio. The 70 dB of mic gain ensures that even the quietest of sources are amplified with clarity and detail. Whether you're capturing the nuanced tones of a delicate vocal or the bold presence of a dynamic guitar, the PRE-73 Jr. MkII is equipped to handle it all. Its robust construction and desktop format make it a reliable and convenient choice for musicians and producers alike.

With a phantom power option and switchable phase, this preamp is designed to cater to a variety of recording needs. The inclusion of both XLR/jack combo inputs and Hi-Z input ensures compatibility with a wide range of microphones and instruments, while the line output facilitates seamless integration into any recording environment. Experience the classic sound of yesterday with the reliability and performance of today's technology.

Key Features:

  • Signal path with discrete components, no integrated circuits
  • Max. 70 dB mic gain
  • Switchable high-pass filter (off / approx. 40 Hz / approx. 170 Hz)
  • 2-Stage switchable Air EQ (boost by 3 or 6 dB at 30 kHz)
  • Phantom power: +48V
  • Switchable phase
  • Microphone input: XLR/jack 6.3 mm combo
  • Hi-Z input for guitar/bass: 6.3 mm jack
  • Line output: XLR/jack 6.3 mm combo
  • Desktop format design
  • Includes an external power supply

FAQs

What type of electronics does the Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII use?

The Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII uses vintage-style class-A electronics, which are known for delivering warm and rich sound characteristics typical of classic analog gear.

Can the Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII be used with electric guitars?

Yes, the PRE-73 Jr. MkII features a high-impedance instrument input, making it suitable for use with electric guitars and basses, as well as other sound modules.

Does the Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII include any indicators for signal presence?

Yes, the PRE-73 Jr. MkII includes a simple signal LED indicator, which helps users monitor signal presence and ensure proper gain staging during recording.

What are the build quality characteristics of the Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr. MkII?

The PRE-73 Jr. MkII is known for its solid build quality, offering durability and reliability for both studio and live sound applications.

Christian Svedin

Christian Svedin

GAP 73Jr MKII | Affordable 1073 Preamp | Test & Review |

Video thumbnail for GAP 73Jr MKII  | Affordable 1073 Preamp | Test & Review | by Christian Svedin

GAP 73Jr MKII | Affordable 1073 Preamp | Test & Review |

Christian Svedin

Christian Svedin

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers clean, honest sound capturing for various audio sources

  • Functions effectively as an alternative DI box for guitar and bass

  • Strong performance with Rhodes piano, maintaining pure sound without amp

  • No noticeable noise at high gain settings up to 55

  • Sturdy, durable build quality

CONS

  • Poor vocal performance, sound quality not ideal for vocal recordings

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The Pre-73 Jr. MkII offers a colored sound reminiscent of the Neve 73, making it suitable for those seeking vintage tonal qualities.

    Source
  • The Pre-73 Jr. MkII may complement a TLM-103 by softening its hyped high frequencies, unlike the Apollo Twin, which maintains clearer highs due to less distortion.

    Source
  • The GAP Pre-73 Jr. MkII is noted to offer comparable performance to more expensive Vintech 573 preamps, challenging users to distinguish them in blind tests.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • This preamp is known for adding a 'smeary' and 'grainy' texture, which may enhance vocals but might not suit all recording types.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Considered an affordable option for its Neve-style sound, though not necessarily a clear, transparent preamp.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Ideal for home studio setups aiming to achieve a classic, vintage recording sound without a high budget.

    Source
  • For voice-over work, the Apollo Twin's stock preamps are generally preferred for a cleaner sound, while the Pre-73 Jr. MkII's color may not suit all VO applications.

    Source
  • It pairs exceptionally well with the SM7b microphone for vocals, offering a favorite setup for some users.

    Source
  • Offers ample gain, making it suitable for use with gain-hungry microphones like the SM7 or ribbon mics.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A 500 series API lunchbox with DIY preamp kits could be a more versatile long-term investment for multiple quality preamps.

    Source
  • Some models may require cutting a trace to eliminate hum, but this might not apply to the 500 rack version.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the Pre-73 Jr. MkII's initial appeal may be due to its novelty rather than objective improvement over the Apollo Twin's stock preamp.

    Source
  • Described as "tough and gutsy," the Pre-73 Jr. MkII holds its ground alongside various other mic amps, maintaining a similar ballpark performance as real 1073s.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Without UAD plugins, the Apollo Twin's performance is likened to an SSL2, suggesting that plugins are crucial to maximizing its capabilities.

    Source

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