Golden Age PRE-73 Jr MK2: Console Tone in a Compact Box

The Golden Age Audio PRE-73 Jr MK2 is a compact single-channel 73-style microphone and instrument preamplifier with a 20 to 70 dB gain range. It brings the warm, punchy, sweet, and musical character of a classic British console preamp to the smallest and most accessible package in the family. The circuit uses fully discrete class-A electronics with no integrated circuits and no surface-mount components. For a first real analog preamp, it is a remarkably direct route to a legendary sound.

A True Class-A Discrete Circuit

Every stage runs in class A, the amplifier topology long favored in vintage studio gear for its smooth, low-distortion character. The signal path contains only discrete resistors, capacitors, and transistors, with no integrated circuits or surface-mount parts to color the tone. Class-A operation means the amplifying devices stay fully conducting, which tends to sound rich and open. It is the same design thinking behind the pricier models, distilled into a smaller chassis.

20 to 70 dB of Usable Gain

A single gain switch spans 20 to 70 dB, covering the needs of condenser microphones, dynamics, and line-level friendly sources. Gain is how much the preamp lifts a weak signal toward a usable level, and this range suits the vast majority of everyday tracking. While it does not reach the 80 dB of the larger models, it has ample muscle for close-miked vocals, guitars, and broadcast work. Setting level is fast thanks to the stepped switch and a separate output level control.

Two Transformers for the Signature Warmth

The input and output are each transformer-balanced using two different transformers, each optimized for its purpose. A transformer couples the audio magnetically and adds the gentle saturation and weight that give 73-style preamps their flattering low end. Even in this compact form, the transformer path is what separates the sound from a clean digital interface. It is the core of the vintage character.

Plug In an Instrument Directly

A front-panel high-impedance instrument input accepts electric guitar, bass, or any sound module for direct recording. This DI input matches the high output impedance of pickups so the tone stays full instead of thin and brittle. Running a bass or synth through the transformer-coupled path is a quick way to add analog weight. Beatmakers and guitarists will use it as often as the mic input.

Shape the Sound at the Source

A two-position Air EQ adds roughly 3 or 6 dB of boost at 30 kHz for an open, airy top end, while a two-frequency high-pass filter at around 40 or 170 Hz clears rumble and mud. A high-pass filter removes low frequencies below its corner point, keeping tracks tight. An output level control also lets you overdrive the gain stage for character, then lower the signal to a clean level. Between them you can commit to a finished tone on the way in.

Small Format, Big Flexibility

A combo XLR/TRS input pairs with independent XLR and 1/4-inch outputs, and an insert jack lets you patch in an external EQ or compressor. The compact chassis is designed so four units mount in a 19-inch rack kit, an efficient way to build a four-channel front end. UK-made transformers and an external power supply keep the sound clean and the build durable. It is a lot of capability in a small footprint.

Who the PRE-73 Jr MK2 Is For

This preamp is aimed at the home recordist, podcaster, and songwriter who wants genuine console character without a large investment or a full rack. Its price and size make it an easy first analog front end, yet the sound scales up to serious project-studio work. Track vocals, layer guitars, or warm up a synth, then add more channels as your studio grows. It is the accessible entry point to the 73-style family.