Golden Age Project PRE-73 MKII Microphone Preamp

Single-channel low-cost vintage style microphone preamplifier that is using a fully discrete signal path with three separate transformers: for the balanced microphone input, the line input and the output. The circuit is very similar to the classical preamp section of the Neve 1073 pre/EQ module with a corresponding sound character that is warm, punchy, sweet and musical. This classical sound has been heard on countless recordings through the years and it is a versatile sound that works very well on most sound sources and in most genres. The preamplifier has a maximum gain of 80 dB on the mic input and the gain range on the Line input is -20 to + 10 dB. There is also a high-impedance instrument input. It is perfect for almost any signal source, no matter if it is a microphone with a high or low sensitivity (like a passive ribbon), a synthesizer or sound module or an electric guitar or bass. The input impedance of the microphone input can be switched between 300 and 1200 ohms, which make it possible to affect the tone of most microphones. There is also phase switch and a simple 4-step LED signal level meter. The output level control makes it possible to make fine gain adjustments and also to overload the main gain stage for more character and then lower the signal to a suitable level before the output stage. An unbalanced insert jack (nominal level about 18 dBu) is added on the back panel for inserting units like the coming GAP EQ-73, a three band EQ. 600 Ohm termination resistor and jumper was also added to power supply board (accessible from the inside of the unit). A 230V power adaptor is included.