Neve 1073 Microphone Preamplifer

The Neve 1073 is meticulously handcrafted in the UK by our Neve Engineers, adhering to the original, hand-drawn designs created by Rupert Neve himself. Each unit is constructed using traditional methods, including point-to-point wiring, fibreglass tracking, and original components. This painstaking process ensures the highest level of care and quality in crafting this legendary module.

The exclusive Marinair specification input transformers, featured in the Neve 1073 module, were developed through a collaboration between Neve Electronics and Marinair Radar in the late ’60s and early ’70s. The Marinair specification for the 10468 Mic input transformer and 31267 line input transformer is unique to Neve and continues to be manufactured in the UK for all Neve 1073 units. These transformers contribute to the balanced, subtle harmonic saturation that the Neve 1073 is renowned for.

The Neve 1073’s LO1166 gapped output transformer was originally designed by Rupert Neve in 1964 for his first transistorised console, created for Phillips Records Ltd. This design has been kept under lock and key at Neve HQ for six decades and is used exclusively by Neve to produce the transformer-balanced output stage for the Neve 1073.

The Neve 1073 employs discrete class-A circuitry throughout. Although not the most power-efficient design, this circuitry is entirely free from crossover distortion and imparts a warm, musical analogue character to any line or microphone source.

The classic 5dB stepped Elma switch ensures precise gain control across the entire range. This unique design eliminates the need for a separate mic/line switch, as the pot itself selects the preamp and input. The Neve 1073 features three distinct gain stages provided by two independent transistor-based preamplifiers, capable of delivering up to 80dB of microphone gain. This combination brings out the musical drive and harmonic saturation for which the Neve 1073 is famous.

The iconic Neve 1073 EQ section utilises handcrafted inductors made exclusively for Neve in the UK. These inductors adhere to the original, unpublished specifications set out in the design of the Neve 1073 module for the 1970 Wessex A88 console. The EQ section, with its carefully selected frequency points, produces musical results across a wide range of signal sources. The high shelf is fixed at 12kHz, the mid-range features selectable bell curve frequency points, and the low shelf offers selectable frequencies, making the Neve 1073’s EQ section versatile and effective.

Complementing the three-band EQ is the Neve 1073’s renowned 3rd order high pass filter, a powerful tool for sculpting sound by removing unwanted low frequencies when tracking through the unit, especially from high-register instruments.

The 180-degree phase flip feature is particularly useful in multi-microphone setups, making it ideal for scenarios like top and bottom snare micing.

The Neve 1073 module also includes two impedance settings, accessible via a rear mounted Hi/Lo switch. With settings of 1.2kΩ and 300Ω, the impedance can be optimised for compatibility with a wide range of modern and vintage microphones.

The Neve 1073 is available in two orientations: vertical and horizontal. Vertical orientation modules can be configured for installation in a console or an 8-module rack, while horizontal modules are designed for use in a 3U stereo pair rack.

Features

• Classic transformer microphone preamp amp (Class A design)
• Exclusive Neve Marinair transformers used on input and output stages
• Hand-built and hand-wired to original 1970s design
• Both inputs are transformer balanced and earth free