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SKU

21138

AML ez1073-500 500 Series Microphone Preamp/EQ

2-slot 500 Series Class A microphone preamp, line amp and EQ/filter module with Carnhill transformers and inductors
MFR# AML‐16‐021

Product Description

The AML ez1073-500 is a Class A, mic pre-amp, line amp and EQ/Filter module which occupies two slots in a 500 series rack. Fully populated with Carnhill transformers and inductors to achieve its distinctive classic sound, this high-end hand-built British module provides an affordable solution for the modern cost conscious studio.

Features:

  • Classic 3 stage (Class A) amplifier design
  • All discrete component (no surface mount devices)
  • Entirely hand assembled and tested in the England to exacting quality standards
  • Mic Input: Carnhill transformer balanced (Classic VTB9045) +10dB to +65dB gain, rotary switchable in 5dB steps and switchable 300/1200 Ohm impedance input
  • Line Input: Carnhill transformer balanced (Classic VTB9046) - 20dB to +20dB, rotary switchable in 4dB steps (centre 0dB), 10k Input Impedance
  • Line Output: Carnhill transformer balanced (Classic full size output transformer)
  • EQ/Filter Stage: 3 inductor (Class A) amplifier design
  • HF (12kHz) +/- 16dB gain continuously variable
  • MF (switchable; 360Hz, 700Hz, 1.6kHz, 3.2kHz, 4.8kHz & 7.2kHz) +/- 16dB gain continuously variable
  • LF (switchable; 35Hz, 60Hz, 110Hz & 220Hz) +/- 16dB gain continuously variable
  • Low Pass Filter (switchable; 50Hz, 80Hz, 160Hz & 300Hz) -18dB per Octave
  • Phantom and polarity switches
  • The XLR behind the left hand side is the Mic Input
  • The XLR behind the right hand side is the Line Input
  • The output is duplicated on both of the output XLRs
  • Stainless steel chassis
  • Total current consumption 110mA (per unit)
  • For use in API (and compatible) Lunchbox and VPR500 racking systems

Product Specifications

Condition New
Tube or Solid State Solid State
Channels Single-Channel
Chassis Module
Module Type 500 Series
Module Slot Count 2 Slots
Direct Input No
Digital I/O No

Product Reviews

5 out of 5 stars.
Review Count (8)

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I read up on this unit extensively before purchasing, because I had my eyes on the AMS Neve 1073LB, but had trouble spending the money on it. When I read I could get an excellent preamp AND an EQ for about $200 less, I was intrigued. I pulled the trigger and have not looked back since. I love this thing. The preamp sounds great and very much like a Neve in my opinion. It also pumps out enough juice to power my EV RE20 with ease. The EQ is also very effective. I love using this to correct/enhance whatever I am recording, and can find curves that work for anything. I am not experienced enough to say whether or not it sounds like a Neve EQ specifically, but I know the knob layout and frequency choices are the same. Despite all this praise, I suppose I have two gripes about the unit though:

1. It does not have an output volume knob (though apparently AML makes a version of this that does).
2. It does not saturate like most Neve preamps I’ve used.

If these are big deterrents for you, then perhaps this unit my not be your best choice. These do not affect me too negatively and certainly do not impede my ability to make great recordings that I, and my clients, both love. I find this unit works and sounds great, and earns an easy 5/5 stars.

By Mason C on April 30, 2023

Solid build
Solid sound
Solid purchase all the way around

By Dominic M on April 20, 2021

Best bang for the buck mic pre/eq combo for sure. I've had vintage Neve 1081's in the studio and these have a lot of the same characteristics. Our clients at Sonic Palace describe the sounds as "smooth" and they definitely notice the upgrade. I've used it on Kick drum, bass, guitar and most importantly vocals. Vocals is where this beast shines, giving a silky smooth top end, mids and lows.
I use the line in as a hardware insert in Pro Tools for lead vocals on final mixes and the vocal sits in the mix just right.
I think I'll pick up a second so we can have a stereo pair.

By Matt M on January 30, 2021

I love the AML 1073. The sound is great. I’ve had the heritage audio 73jr, 73jr eq and the 1073 80 series. They all sound great as well. The price point for the AML is what got me. I didn’t have a chance to a/b but I think I’d be splitting hairs. Amazing build quality and sound.

By Bombz P on November 13, 2020

incredible device, great price...

By Guadalupe A on September 29, 2020

Very warm, feels like tape. Big studio sound for affordable price. I recommend this. Read the one page manual on how to get preferred level to hit sweet spot.

By Michael P on January 14, 2020

Every couple months or so, I look for something new to swap into the 500 series rack. I'm a big fan of Neve and API style preamps and EQ's, I saw this little guy pop up on vintage kings website and it caught my eye. The fact that it was a Neve 1073 clone for $1000 didn't hurt either. I picked it up and popped it in the rack, first thing I recorded through it was an electric guitar. The preamp itself sounded great, not quite as warm as a real 1073, but had a nice bite to it. The breakup wasn't as smooth as a 1073, more like the buzz a fuzz pedal makes when you crank it, but I liked it. The EQ was pretty spot on to the real deal, a little bit went a long way whether you were boosting or cutting, midrange bands had the same poke as the Neve. I've since used it on kicks, snare, percussion, acoustic guitar, violin and bass, it's held up everytime. I think this will be something that sticks around for awhile. Great choice if you're looking for that 1073 sound without blowing the whole studio budget.

By Kevin Z on May 16, 2017

When my partner bought 2 of these pre/eq modules, he was gushing about the sound. When I heard them, I agreed. We have many modules, but these are head and shoulders above the rest. We have used the real, vintage Neve modules, and these keep right up with them.

I probably shouldn't let the cat out of the bag, but these things are the real deal. We bought 5, and we will get more. We also have two of their compressors, and they are just as good. So, don't buy these; we don't want anyone else to have them, and we don't want the price to go up! :-)

By Thomas on March 21, 2016

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How do you rate this product?
I would like to thank VK for the wonderful sales assistance, service and prices. This was my first purchase with you and it won't be my last. I only wish I'd discovered you years ago!
Matthew R.
I had two Grammy wins this year - Ray LaMontagne & Carolina Chocolate Drops. Both made with help from Vintage King!
Ryan F.
In almost 20 years in Pro audio buying, never did I receive a unit so well packed and exactly as described. Works flawlessly. The whole process has been so smooth. I will never hesitate to do business with you guys in the future and will recommend you to everyone I know.
Martin C.
This was my first experience buying something from Vintage King (although I surf the "used" categories on the website frequently!), and, despite being on the other side of the world, I had absolutely no trouble and everything went very smoothly.
Phil T.
The speed of delivery exceeded my expectations! I was VERY pleased that my shipment arrived in time for a scheduled vocal tracking session. The packing insured that my order arrived safely. And the sales staff responded quickly to questions regarding the product.
James P.
Thank you so much! Vintage King has been so fair and easy to work with. I can't thank you enough. It feels good to trust such a hefty purchase to folks who are so helpful and knowledgeable. Vintage King is a sound designers dream store.
Noa L.
You guys have excellent customer service and I am excited about the next upgrade I complete on my fifth recording facility. I've been in the studio business for forty plus years. The salesman I worked with at Vintage King was the best of the best. You all rock!
Robby T.
I would recommend Vintage King to any one looking for top-class gear, unbeatable customer service and the best prices on the map!
Jake D.
My experience with Vintage King was excellent. The order was here fast considering it was out of stock. The sales person had SKB send it to me directly and I couldn't have been more pleased.
Michael D.
From the minute I placed my order I was kept well-informed through each step in your process. Even though I was buying a comparatively modest piece of gear, your attention to detail made me feel like I was purchasing a six-figure mixing desk.
Thomas W.
I am a new customer of yours. You guys provided me the absolute best deals in ordering all the equipment to power my brand new recording studio. Your customer service is amazing and i will always deal with you from here on out.
Rob M.
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Alan B.
Better than expected! Truly impeccable service. Your team was professional, knowledgeable, provided speedy delivery above and beyond standard. Vintage King Audio is definitely my go to for all of my audio and information needs.
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