Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (4)
$1,249.00
Guitar Center
$1,199.00
Amazon
$1,249.00
Reverb
$1,152.36 New
$1,134.45 Used
Musician's Friend
$1,199.00
zZounds
$1,249.00
B&H
$1,249.00
Thomann
4.9 (8)
$1,111.00
Vintage King
4.7 (3)
$1,249.00

Average Price: $1,204

Standard/Professional

$599

$2000+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Discover the Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer, a masterful blend of vintage circuitry and modern precision designed to elevate your studio recordings. This channel strip artfully merges an all discrete, Class-A, 73-style mic preamp with a console-style equalizer, delivering the kind of warm, classic sound that recording engineers crave. Whether you're capturing the subtle nuances of a vocalist or the powerful dynamics of a drum kit, the HA-81A ensures clarity and presence.

The preamp section boasts up to 80 dB of gain, utilizing Carnhill and St. Ives input and output transformers to maintain audio fidelity. It's equipped with essential features such as an output trim, -20 dB pad, phase reverse switch, and +48V phantom power, making it a versatile choice for any recording setup.

The 4-band, inductor-based equalizer offers a world of tonal sculpting possibilities, with both high and low pass filters. Unlike typical 3-band EQs, the HA-81A provides dual Q control on both mid-bands and allows for selective tuning with 40 frequency options. This level of precision ensures that every detail of your audio is captured and refined to perfection.

With its robust build and intuitive rotary switches, the HA-81A is a staple for any serious studio, consistently delivering the warmth and character of legendary sound consoles.

Key Features:

  • 73-style microphone preamplifier with up to 80 dB gain
  • Discrete Class-A technology with Carnhill/St. Ives transformers
  • 4-band inductor-based EQ with high and low pass filters
  • 40 frequency selection points for precise tonal control
  • Rotary switches and concentric potentiometers for accuracy
  • -20 dB pad, phase reverse switch, and +48V phantom power
  • Mic, line, and DI inputs with XLR and 6.3 mm jack connections

FAQs

What are the main features of the Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer?

The HA-81A features a mic pad push button, input gain switch, phantom power switch, high and low mid peak bands, and an output attenuator, making it a versatile tool for shaping audio.

Does the Heritage Audio HA-81A provide phantom power for condenser microphones?

Yes, the HA-81A includes a phantom power switch, allowing it to supply the necessary power for condenser microphones.

How does the Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series enhance audio quality?

The HA-81A enhances audio quality with its high and low mid peak bands, allowing precise tonal shaping and control over the frequency spectrum.

Is the Heritage Audio HA-81A suitable for home studio recording?

Yes, the HA-81A is well-suited for home studio recording, offering professional-grade preamp and EQ capabilities to improve sound quality in a compact setup.

Can the Heritage Audio HA-81A handle high input levels without distortion?

Yes, the HA-81A is equipped with an input gain switch and output attenuator, providing flexibility to manage high input levels and prevent distortion.

Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio - HA81A Elite Series drum test with Marcelo Novati

Video thumbnail for Heritage Audio - HA81A Elite Series drum test with Marcelo Novati by Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio - HA81A Elite Series drum test with Marcelo Novati

Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio

Video thumbnail for Heritage Audio - HA-81A EQ Elite Series Connections & Features by Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio - HA-81A EQ Elite Series Connections & Features

Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio

Video thumbnail for Heritage Audio - Introducing the HA-81A EQ Elite Series by Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio - Introducing the HA-81A EQ Elite Series

Heritage Audio

Heritage Audio

Reviews

PROS

  • Sturdy EQ gain knobs prevent accidental adjustments

  • Exceptional for recording bass with remarkable clarity

  • Provides incredible sound depth and presence

  • Offers impressive audio saturation and warmth

  • Highly versatile EQ for sound shaping and enhancement

  • Modern sound with excellent balance

  • Comparable quality to Neve 1073/1084/1081 models

  • Great improvement over simpler audio chains

CONS

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Austin Hull uses Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer

Austin Hull

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "My DREAM Home Studio Tour (Austin Hull Studio Tour)" by Make Pop Music on YouTube, Austin Hull can be seen showcasing his home studio in Orlando, Florida. At the timestamp 10:47, the Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer is visibly placed in his second outboard gear rack.

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 Heritage Audio HA-81A EQ Elite Series Mic Preamp / Equalizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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