Warm Audio WA273-EQ - A Dual Channel '73 For The Rest Of Us
Honoring a Timeless Classic
The Warm Audio WA273-EQ is a testament to the enduring legacy of the '73-style microphone preamp, revered by audio professionals as the cornerstone of pop/rock records for decades. The WA273-EQ, part of the "WA73 Family," is meticulously crafted to honor the rich British audio history, capturing the distinctive tone and character that made the original '73 preamps so legendary.
Unmatched Versatility and Tone
Designed as a versatile workhorse for both studio and live applications, the WA273-EQ shines with all microphone types - Condenser, Dynamic, and Ribbon. Whether it's capturing vocals, guitars, bass, drums, or orchestras, the WA273-EQ's 80dB of gain and Carnhill Transformer balanced signal path ensures exceptional performance for any recording, mixing, or engineering task.
Custom Carnhill Transformers - The Heart of British Sound
Warm Audio collaborated with Carnhill Transformers of Cambridgeshire, UK, to recreate the early version transformers that are integral to the '73 sound. Known for their fluid and forgiving saturation, these transformers are key to the WA273-EQ's ability to deliver a sonic experience that is both sweet and musically rich.
Faithful to Vintage Design
The WA273-EQ respects the original design ethos, utilizing tantalum and polystyrene capacitors in the signal path and a smoother output transistor for higher gain settings. The result is a preamp that not only replicates the classic British sound but also adds its own warmth and character.
UK Blore Edwards Switch-Pots - Precision and Reliability
In line with the high standards of a '73-style preamp, the WA273-EQ features UK-made Blore Edwards dual-concentric switch potentiometers in the EQ section. These military-spec components ensure both reliability and precise control, making the WA273-EQ a rare find in its price range.
Handcrafted with Care
Following the tradition of classic '73-style preamps, the WA273-EQ is hand-wired and hand-assembled, including the PCB components. This meticulous approach is believed to contribute significantly to the sought-after British tone, offering an authenticity that is rare in modern reproductions.
Key Features:
- Dual Channel, Class A, '73-style British microphone preamp with EQ.
- Hand-wired and assembled with UK-made components.
- Versatile EQ section with additional high band frequency points.
- Inductor-based hipass filter for precise tonal shaping.
- Comprehensive I/O options including XLR mic inputs (front & back), line level TRS input, and direct instrument input.
The WA273-EQ not only pays homage to a classic era of recording but also brings its timeless sound to modern studios, making it an essential tool for audio professionals seeking the vintage warmth and character of the '73 preamps.
