Golden Age Audio PRE-73 DELUXE MK II Mic/Line/Instrument Preamplifier

Golden Age Project Pre-73 DLX MK II Overview
The Golden Age Project Pre-73 DLX MK II is a 1-channel mic/line/instrument preamp that combines vintage-style warmth and modern features. Known for its punchy, musical sound, the Pre-73 DLX MK II is designed to deliver that sought-after vintage flavor, making it ideal for recording vocals, instruments, and line-level signals. Whether you’re using passive ribbon mics or electric guitars, this preamp’s 80dB of gain provides ample power to handle even the quietest sound sources. With features like switchable impedance, highpass filtering, and the AIR boost, the Pre-73 DLX MK II delivers versatility, reliability, and classic analog warmth—all in a compact, affordable package.

Vintage-Style Electronics with Modern Enhancements
The Pre-73 DLX MK II uses vintage-style discrete electronics, meaning it relies on high-quality transformers and capacitors without integrated circuits in the signal path. This design ensures a pure, rich sound that captures the true character of your instruments or vocals. The unit incorporates a beefed-up power supply and an updated 48V phantom power supply that delivers the full 10mA of current to support even the most sensitive microphones. With the addition of the renowned AIR circuit, you get a smooth high-frequency boost that adds a shimmering quality to vocals and mixes, providing that lush, vintage-inspired sound that is perfect for modern-day recordings.

Versatile Gain Control for Any Source
The Pre-73 DLX MK II is engineered with versatility in mind, offering 80dB of gain that’s perfect for handling passive ribbon mics and quiet sound sources. The unit includes a gain/line mode switch, which allows you to adjust the preamp for different levels of sensitivity, while the gain is reduced by 30dB in LINE mode to accommodate line-level sources. This flexibility ensures that you can use the Pre-73 DLX MK II with a variety of microphones and instruments, whether you’re recording delicate vocals or the powerful sound of an electric guitar. The inclusion of an output level control and output pad further enhances your ability to fine-tune your levels for the perfect signal.

Highpass Filtering and AIR Boost for Tailored Sound
The Pre-73 DLX MK II features a selectable 2-position high-frequency AIR boost EQ, providing either a 3dB or 6dB boost at 30kHz for added clarity and presence. Additionally, the unit includes a selectable 6dB/octave highpass filter with multiple frequency options (50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz, or 300Hz) to help remove unwanted low-frequency rumble or noise. These features give you complete control over your signal’s tonal balance, making it easier to shape your recordings and add that extra touch of brightness or warmth when needed. Whether you’re cutting out low-end muddiness or boosting the high-end for a more polished sound, these tools allow you to tailor your tracks to perfection.

Professional Connectivity and Robust Build Quality
The Pre-73 DLX MK II features multiple inputs and outputs, including a combo XLR/TRS input jack and separate output XLR and TRS jacks, giving you the flexibility to connect various audio devices. The unit also includes an insert jack, allowing you to incorporate outboard processors such as equalizers or compressors directly into your signal chain. The UK-built Carnhill input transformer adds an extra layer of reliability and vintage character to the sound, ensuring you get the best possible tone. Designed with robust build quality, this preamp is built to stand the test of time, offering years of reliable service in any studio setting.

Affordable Vintage-Style Sound
Golden Age Project has made vintage-style sound accessible to all, with the Pre-73 DLX MK II offering an affordable solution for those seeking the character and warmth of classic preamps without the high cost. Inspired by iconic British designs from the golden age of analog, this preamp provides you with that same lush, punchy sound that has become a hallmark of legendary recordings. If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to add vintage analog color to your recordings, the Pre-73 DLX MK II delivers unbeatable value and exceptional performance, offering you the perfect balance of price, features, and sound quality.