Pricing and availability

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Sweetwater
5.0 (2)
$649.00
Amazon
1.0 (1)
$649.00
Reverb
5.0 (2)
$325.00 2 available Used
Thomann
4.7 (26)
$611.00 $599.00 $12.00 · All time low
Vintage King
5.0 (1)
$649.00

Average Price: $587

Budget/Beginner

$599

$2000+

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Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Golden Age Project PREQ-73 Preamp w/ Two Band EQ". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Embrace the allure of vintage sound with the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 Preamp w/ Two Band EQ, a remarkable fusion of classic audio craftsmanship and modern functionality. Designed to channel the legendary warmth and depth of the 1073 preamp, this unit offers an authentic sonic experience that resonates with the spirit of '70s rock. Whether you're a seasoned studio engineer or an aspiring musician, the PREQ-73 provides a versatile canvas for your audio artistry.

Boasting 80dB of gain, this powerhouse is ideal for capturing the subtle nuances of passive ribbon mics or any quiet sound source. Its all-discrete, Class A circuitry ensures the purest signal path, free from integrated circuits, while the UK-made Carnhill transformers imbue your sound with that coveted vintage character. The two-band EQ, featuring inductor-based midrange control, allows you to sculpt your sound with precision, whether you're boosting lows or shaping highs.

With switchable impedance settings, this preamp adapts to your mic's needs, offering tonal flexibility and the ability to match impedance for optimal sound. The external power supply minimizes interference, ensuring your audio remains pristine. Dive into the rich, musical tones that only a meticulously crafted piece of gear like the PREQ-73 can provide.

Key Features:

  • Vintage-style Class A electronics with no integrated circuits
  • 80dB of gain, perfect for passive ribbon mics
  • 23-position Line/Mic gain switch with 5dB steps
  • Inductor-based midrange EQ with three selectable frequencies
  • Switchable mic impedance: 1200 or 300 ohms
  • High-impedance instrument input
  • Transformer-balanced mic and line inputs
  • Switchable 48-volt phantom power and polarity
  • External power supply to avoid circuit interference
  • UK-made Carnhill input and output transformers

Product specs

Preamp Type Solid State
Number of Channels 1
Phantom Power Yes
Pads -14dB
Polarity Switch Yes
EQ Highpass, Air EQ
Analog Inputs 1 x 1/4" (Hi-Z), 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (line), 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic)
Analog Outputs 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4"
Power Source 24V AC Power Supply (included)

FAQs

What type of preamp is the Golden Age Project PREQ-73?

The Golden Age Project PREQ-73 is a solid state preamp, offering a single channel of microphone amplification with an integrated two-band EQ.

Does the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 support phantom power?

Yes, the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 provides phantom power, making it suitable for use with condenser microphones that require external power.

What kind of EQ does the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 feature?

The Golden Age Project PREQ-73 includes a highpass filter and an Air EQ, allowing users to shape their sound with precision.

What are the input options available on the Golden Age Project PREQ-73?

The preamp offers a variety of input options, including 1 x 1/4" Hi-Z, 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (line), and 1 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic), providing flexibility for different audio sources.

Is the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 suitable for home studio recording?

Yes, with its solid state design, versatile EQ, and multiple input options, the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 is well-suited for home studio recording setups.

What power source does the Golden Age Project PREQ-73 require?

The Golden Age Project PREQ-73 operates with a 24V AC power supply, which is included with the unit.

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers a vintage Neve 1073 sound at a budget-friendly price

  • EQ options enhance flexibility and allow for detailed tonal shaping

  • Produces warm, smooth harmonics that enhance vocal and instrument presence

  • Compact design fits well in desktop setups

  • Solid metal construction ensures durability

  • Allows for creative sound manipulation with gain and EQ settings

  • Effective at enhancing guitar amp simulations and making them record-ready

  • Adds vibrant character and presence to vocals in mixes

CONS

  • May not pair well with all microphones, such as the Neumann TLM 102

  • Users may require an additional compressor to prevent peaking at high gain settings

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Golden Age Project PREQ-73 Preamp w/ Two Band EQ.

Comparisons

  • The PreQ73 can clip harshly when driven hard, unlike the WA73EQ which offers a warmer, overdriven clip similar to a Neve.

    Source
  • Users found improved performance switching from a Focusrite 2i2 to an Audient iD14 interface, indicating potential noise reduction benefits with different gear combinations.

    Source
  • The EQ81 MKIII offers more flexibility with its four-band EQ, allowing for shelving and high Q adjustments, compared to the simpler EQ73 Premier.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The PreQ73 allows for extreme drive, surpassing other 73 clones in coloration.

    Source
  • The PreQ73's mic/line switch affects volume significantly, potentially altering the setup if not correctly positioned, especially in studio environments.

    Source
  • The Premier73 Preamp includes Carnhill transformers, providing options to use it as a mic preamp, bass DI, or for DAW track coloration without cable changes.

    Source
  • The Premier73 DLX model offers an output attenuator, hi-pass, and air switch, enhancing its versatility in various recording scenarios.

    Source
  • The EQ73 Premier is favored for its simplicity and ease of use with stepped knobs, making it suitable for quick EQ adjustments during tracking.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the PreQ73 note that it is compact and cost-effective, providing good sound quality with a versatile EQ range.

    Source
  • Owners of the Premier73 appreciate its flexibility, using it for tracking and reamping without needing to re-cable, thanks to its comprehensive in/out options.

    Source

Build quality

  • The PreQ73 is appreciated for its robust build, with some users noting long-term reliability and post-purchase support for issues like knob repairs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The WA73EQ's filter has a distinct resonance beneficial for outside kick or front-of-kit mics, though it loses resonance when EQ is engaged.

    Source
  • The PreQ73 and SM7B combination might not be ideal for soft-spoken voiceovers without additional noise management solutions like a Cloudlifter.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users report significant hissing noise when using the SM7B with the PreQ73, especially at high gain settings like 65, which is common for this low-output mic.

    Source
  • Engaging the air switch on the PreQ73 may increase hiss, a point to consider when managing noise levels.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Golden Age Music PREQ-73 Review - MusicTech

musictech.com

The Golden Age Project PREQ-73 strikes a chord with its vintage Neve-inspired sound at an accessible price point. It offers a warm, punchy character that enhances most audio signals, especially for those who crave that classic vibe. While the EQ is limited, it is sweet and musical, albeit missing a high-pass filter. High gain and versatile impedance options complement a range of microphones, making it versatile. Though it may not satisfy fans of ultra-transparent preamps, it delivers a hefty slice of coveted 1073 sound without breaking the bank. A solid choice for character-driven recording.

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