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

(8)

write a review

: 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

* Required Fields

Share Your Opinion

The best gear advice always comes from those who use it the most. That's where you come in! Let the pro audio world hear your voice with a review of the AML ez1073-500 500 Series Microphone Preamp/EQ . Once you submit your review, please check your email and verify your address to have it posted.

How do you rate this product?

5 out of 5 stars 4 out of 5 stars 3 out of 5 stars 2 out of 5 stars 1 out of 5 stars

Let us know your thoughts

Nickname

Email address