AMS Neve 1073SPX Mono Mic Pre-amp & EQ

I must admit that I was a bit skeptical when I saw this pre/EQ at this price point. With 1073 clones selling above this price point, it didn't seem likely that this unit would have the mojo that has come to be expected with a genuine 1073. I've been using this on a new project and I must say that I am very happy with the sound of this unit!One of the first things I tried this unit on, was a nearly clean (very slightly distorted, let's call it extra warm) guitar. It sounded fantastic, so-much-so that I decided to record a second guitar track with the guitar running straight into the unit. This was meant to be a simple test of the unit and in no way did I intend to keep the track, but after hearing it, I not only kept it but I recorded a third track, also running ... MoreI must admit that I was a bit skeptical when I saw this pre/EQ at this price point. With 1073 clones selling above this price point, it didn't seem likely that this unit would have the mojo that has come to be expected with a genuine 1073. I've been using this on a new project and I must say that I am very happy with the sound of this unit!One of the first things I tried this unit on, was a nearly clean (very slightly distorted, let's call it extra warm) guitar. It sounded fantastic, so-much-so that I decided to record a second guitar track with the guitar running straight into the unit. This was meant to be a simple test of the unit and in no way did I intend to keep the track, but after hearing it, I not only kept it but I recorded a third track, also running straight into the unit. I will keep all guitar recorded so far. The next thing that I ran into this unit was a male (baritone) vocal and the initial result was very satisfying but I did hear a few small frequency things that could be improved and although I typically don't like to track with EQ, I thought it would be a good test. I recorded a second take of the vocal with the HPF engaged and cut a bit around 190Hz and pushed some highs around 4.8kHz and a bit of high-shelf. These EQ inputs were very small, -1.5db on the low end and +1db on both of the high bumps and the vocal really popped without being harsh. For this project and this vocal, this unit is awesome! Although I have not tried this unit on a wide range of sources, I already can say it's a keeper and I will probably buy a second unit.On the downside, Neve saved some money in the buttons, knobs and power supply of the unit. The power supply looks like something you would buy at a discount store, not something that would appear in a recording studio. The white rectangular "lift" and "-20" buttons on the left side of the unit are actually slightly crooked. The gray knobs for cutting/boosting frequencies also feel pretty cheap as does the output knob. These items were nearly a deal-breaker for me, especially the power supply, but I thought I would test the unit anyway. I'm glad I did. Frankly, the crooked buttons should have never made it out of the factory and makes me question quality control, but the unit sounds wonderful.I would recommend this unit, it sounds very good. Just be aware that Neve cut some corners to reach the current price point and that some of these cuts are visually noticeable.

This is a 1st class product and at an exceptional price. OK the price was enabled by modern manufacturing using surface mount but as far as I can tell the sound is the same as it ever was. I expect other manufacturers will be dropping their prices to try and compete. No one ever regretted buying the real deal.

I have some outboard pre-amps like the WA-12 (modded,) Slate VMS, Persons Studio Channel, and every plug in known to man (may be a slight exaggeration but not much.) I ordered a SA-87T microphone from Stam Audio and am ordering an SA-47. These microphones are high quality clones of Neumann U-87 and U-47. I wanted to have more external gear as that is what I am used to. I like the 1073 sound. It is a very versatile pre-amp. I bought one and am glad. It is butter. Bass, vocals, acoustic guitar it just adds that warm drive that really makes the track sound awesome. This is the classic, if you are on the fence call your Sales Engineer or call mine Paul Allen and he will set you up. You won't regret it.