Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Price History
Based on price data from 8 merchants for "Warm Audio WA273-EQ". 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
The Warm Audio WA273-EQ is a studio powerhouse that brings the revered sound of British '73-style preamps into your recording setup. This dual-channel, Class A mic preamp is a tribute to the legendary circuits that defined the punchy tones of the '70s rock era. With its fully discrete, transformer-balanced signal path, it captures the essence of the classic 1073 preamp, delivering a harmonically rich sound with a sweet, bold character. Perfect for both studio and live applications, the WA273-EQ excels with any microphone type—condenser, dynamic, or ribbon. Whether you're tracking vocals, guitars, bass, or full orchestras, its 80dB of gain ensures exceptional clarity and warmth.
The WA273-EQ is more than just a preamp; it’s a versatile EQ tool with a 3-band induction coil system that allows for precise tone shaping across a wide range of frequencies. The UK-made Carnhill transformers and Blore Edwards switch potentiometers ensure high-quality performance, while the handwired, rugged construction guarantees reliability and durability. Whether you're enhancing a single track or running entire mixes through it, the WA273-EQ offers a transformative experience.
Key Features:
- Dual-channel, Class A, '73-style British microphone preamp with EQ
- U.K.-made Carnhill Transformers
- Discrete Class A circuit with 80dB of gain
- Inductor-based 3-band EQ: low band (35, 60, 110, 220Hz), mid band (360, 700, 1600, 3200, 4800, 7200Hz), high band (10, 12, 16kHz)
- 4-position highpass filter: 50, 80, 160, 300Hz
- Tone button for input impedance switching
- Polarity switch and 48V phantom power
- Multiple input/output options: XLR mic inputs, TRS line inputs, TS Send/Receive insert jacks, and line-level outputs
- LED level meters and output level controls
- Rugged 19" rackmount chassis with internal IEC 115V/230V power inlet
Owner's manual
Warm Audio WA273-EQ User ManualProduct specs
| Preamp Type | Class A Solid State |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Phantom Power | Yes |
| Polarity Switch | Yes |
| EQ | Low (35Hz, 60Hz, 110Hz, 220Hz), Mid (360Hz, 700Hz, 1600Hz, 3200Hz, 4800Hz, 7200Hz), High (10kHz, 12kHz, 16kHz), Highpass |
| Analog Inputs | 4 x XLR (mic), 2 x 1/4" (Hi-Z), 2 x 1/4" (line) |
| Analog Outputs | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4" |
| Channel Inserts | Yes |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz-20kHz (±0.5 dB) |
| Rack Spaces | 2U |
| Power Source | Standard IEC AC cable |
| Width | 19" |
FAQs
-
What type of preamp is the Warm Audio WA273-EQ?
-
The Warm Audio WA273-EQ is a Class A solid-state preamp, known for its clean and robust sound, suitable for a variety of recording applications.
-
How many channels does the Warm Audio WA273-EQ have?
-
The Warm Audio WA273-EQ features two channels, making it ideal for stereo recording or dual-mono applications.
-
What EQ options are available on the Warm Audio WA273-EQ?
-
The WA273-EQ offers a 3-band EQ with selectable frequencies: low (35Hz, 60Hz, 110Hz, 220Hz), mid (360Hz, 700Hz, 1600Hz, 3200Hz, 4800Hz, 7200Hz), and high (10kHz, 12kHz, 16kHz), plus a high-pass filter.
-
Does the Warm Audio WA273-EQ provide phantom power for condenser microphones?
-
Yes, the WA273-EQ includes phantom power, allowing you to use condenser microphones that require external power.
-
What are the input and output options on the Warm Audio WA273-EQ?
-
The WA273-EQ provides 4 XLR mic inputs, 2 Hi-Z and 2 line inputs, and outputs via 2 XLR and 2 1/4" connectors, offering versatile connectivity for various studio setups.
-
Is the Warm Audio WA273-EQ suitable for rack mounting?
-
Yes, the WA273-EQ is designed to fit in a standard 19-inch rack and occupies 2U of rack space.
-
What is the frequency response of the Warm Audio WA273-EQ?
-
The frequency response of the WA273-EQ ranges from 20Hz to 20kHz, maintaining a flat response within ±0.5 dB, ensuring accurate sound reproduction.
Videos
Worship Tutorials
Warm Audio WA273-EQ vs UAD 1073 Unison Preamp plugin // Does the hardware sound better?
Reviews
PROS
-
Emulates the "Neve" sound affordably, offering excellent tonality and versatility
-
Heavy-duty build quality ensures durability and reliability
-
Equipped with EQ, enhancing sound-shaping capabilities for various instruments
-
Provides a warm, punchy sound with plenty of character, especially on drums and bass
-
Ideal for both microphone and instrument inputs, adding depth to recordings
-
Useful for stereo applications with two channels for broader recording options
-
Offers additional EQ bands not found in the original model it emulates
-
Supports a wide range of musical styles and instruments, from vocals to grand pianos
-
Excellent customer support from Warm Audio for troubleshooting
-
Great value for money, offering high-end features at a competitive price
CONS
-
Some controls may be stiff or uneven initially, requiring a break-in period
-
LED indicators and switches may appear cheap, not affecting sound quality but potentially the aesthetic or tactile experience
-
Occasional quality control issues reported, though effectively resolved by customer service
-
EQ knobs can sometimes be stiffer than desired, impacting ease of use
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Warm Audio WA273-EQ.
Build quality
-
Input gain switches may be a potential failure point over time, possibly due to lower-quality components compared to higher-end units.
Source -
Output trim knobs may slip, requiring reseating for accurate level matching.
Source -
The WA273 is notably heavy, weighing around 10 pounds, which some users equate with higher quality construction.
Source
Features and functionality
Comparisons
-
Described as smoother and more silky than GAP's 1073-style preamps, which are more raw and can saturate more aggressively.
Source -
Users find the WA273's analog sound offers a distinct separation compared to UAD Avalon plugins, though the latter can achieve similar EQ results.
Source -
Some users ultimately prefer UAD Neve 1073 or Waves Scheps 73 plugins for piano, citing their convenience and comparable sound quality to the WA273.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
Excels in adding vintage saturation and character, making it ideal for users seeking a warmer, colored sound not attainable with standard interface preamps.
Source -
Not ideal for use on the 2-bus due to slower response; better suited for applications not requiring precise stereo matching.
Source -
The WA273 provides greater separation in a mix when used for piano, compared to Apogee's cleaner sound, enhancing darker tonal qualities for acoustic jazz.
Source -
A process of cranking the preamp input and backing off the output is used to achieve a pleasing sound with the WA273 for piano recordings.
Source
User experience
-
Unlike Neve 1073, the WA273-EQ is noted for its slower sound, distinct from the faster response of Audient ID14 preamps, offering a different sonic texture.
Source
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
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 Warm Audio WA273-EQ, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation1 alternative for Warm Audio WA273-EQ, curated by the Equipboard community.
$2,999.00 - $3,655.00
More Warm Audio Preamps
Accessories & Related Items
Artist usage
Gear Guides
Most Popular Preamps
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
tim_horganGear IQ 241
-