Golden Age Project / PRE-73 DLX mk2

A ""deluxe version"" of the PRE-73 Mk3, recreating the feel of vintage NEVE guitars.

The PRE-73DLX mk2 is a 1-channel vintage-style preamplifier for microphones, line inputs, and instruments. It's a high-quality version that further develops the excellent sound of the PRE-73mk3. It features added professional functions such as a variable high-pass filter and output pad. Furthermore, independent transformers for microphone and line inputs (unlike the PRE-73mk3's shared transformer) recreate the original NEVE gain structure.

Compared to the previous PRE-73DLX model, upgrades include a reduced number of internal connectors in the circuit design, an improved power supply, and a 48V phantom power design. Additionally, an ""AIR band EQ"" has been added, allowing for the addition of a beautiful airy feel to the high frequencies.

The variable output pad allows for line output at the appropriate level, drawing out harmonics from the input transformer. Furthermore, sound shaping is possible using AirEQ and high-pass filters. Connecting an optional EQ unit (such as the EQ-73) to the insert terminal on the rear panel allows for the reproduction of a microphone preamp + EQ combination similar to the NEVE 1073.

The signal path uses only discrete components such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors. Three different, optimized transformers are used for the line and microphone inputs and line output. The preamp section of the classic vintage NEVE 1073 module possesses a warm, punchy tone with a magical ability to add musical resonance; the Golden Age Project's mission was to offer this magical tone at an affordable price.

The PRE-73DLX mk2 is the best tool for reproducing the timeless analog sound of classic NEVE at a high level, even in home or small studios.

■ Vintage-style circuit design. All-discrete circuit configuration

■ Equipped with a NEVE 1073-style high-pass (low-cut) filter (selectable at 50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, 300Hz), with 18dB/octave roll-off

■ Features a 2-position AIR EQ with 3dB or 6dB boost at 30 kHz

■ Output PAD function. Selectable at -7, -14, -21, -28 dB. By placing this function after the output transformer, it's possible to push the gain from the preceding stage further into the output transformer, allowing for stronger extraction of the transformer's characteristic harmonics. This enables the creation of distortion while maintaining an appropriate output level.


■ Three custom-made high-quality transformers (microphone input, line input, line output)

■ Circuit board capable of accommodating Carnhill Mic/Line transformers and high-pass inductors

■ Traditional 1073-style gain switch (microphone/line input selectable)

■ XLR/TRS phone combo microphone/line input jacks

■ Two line output jacks (XLR & TRS phone)

■ EQ-73 insert jack (allows insertion of separately sold units such as the EQ-73 to recreate the NEVE 1073-like microphone preamp + EQ combination)

■ Microphone input with a maximum gain of 80dB (ideal for ribbon microphones)

■ Switchable microphone input impedance of 1200 or 300 ohms (allows switching to the optimal microphone tone)

■ Line input gain range: -20 to +10 dB.

■ Active DI input: Allows DI output of guitar and bass signals through the microphone input transformer. Input impedance can be switched between Hi-Z and 100k ohms via an internal jumper.

■ Vintage-style push switch (48V, INS, DI, LOW-Z)

■ Redesigned superior phantom power circuit

■ High-spec power supply design with separate regulators for audio circuitry, relay, and LED circuitry

■ Redesigned power supply circuit with independent audio circuitry, relay, and LED circuitry

■ Simple, effective 4-step LED output level meter

■ Tantalum capacitors used in the signal path

■ 600-ohm output termination and ground lift switch (rear panel)

■ 24V AC adapter included as standard (PSE certified 100V Japan specification)

■ Solid and robust chassis design

■ Product dimensions: 215mm (W) x 43mm (H) x 253mm (D) *Excluding knobs/protrusions