Warm Audio WA73-EQ
Overview
The Warm Audio WA73-EQ is a single-channel microphone preamp and equalizer that faithfully recreates the sound of the legendary Neve 1073 console module, delivering the thick, punchy, harmonically saturated sound that has defined rock, pop, and R&B recordings for over fifty years at a fraction of the vintage original's price. The preamp section uses a custom Carnhill-loaded input transformer and a Carnhill output transformer, the same transformer manufacturer that supplied the original Neve designs, providing authentic transformer-coupled saturation that adds weight, presence, and musical harmonic content to every source. The three-band EQ section replicates the original Neve 1073 equalizer topology with inductor-based shelving at selectable high and low frequencies and a peaked midrange at one of six selectable frequencies, delivering the smooth, musical boost and cut characteristics that made the original an industry standard. The preamp provides up to 80dB of gain with a stepped gain control, and the EQ can be independently switched in and out for precise A/B comparison. A front-panel DI input handles instrument-level sources, and a polarity switch and phantom power complete the feature set. Build quality is excellent with a heavy steel chassis and hand-wired components. The WA73-EQ is perfect for home and project studio owners who crave the Neve sound without the five-figure vintage price. The stepped gain control lacks the fine adjustment of continuously variable designs, and the single-channel format requires two units for stereo tracking.
Preamps
Neve 1073-inspired preamp and inductor EQ with authentic Carnhill transformers, delivering the thick, harmonically rich British console sound at a project-studio price.
Instrument Details
$899
Intermediate
Brand
Warm Audio
Type
Neve-Style Preamp with EQ
Made In
United States
Year
2016
