Warm Audio WA73 - A Single Channel '73 For The Rest Of Us
Embracing the Legendary '73-style Preamp
The Warm Audio WA73 represents a pinnacle in the emulation of the classic '73-style microphone preamps, revered for shaping the sound of pop and rock music for decades. The WA73 is part of the distinguished "WA73 Family," which includes both single and dual channel models. These preamps are crafted with the utmost respect for British audio history, aiming to deliver the distinctive tone and character that have made the '73-style preamps so sought after.
A Versatile and Powerful Preamp
The WA73 is not just a boutique preamp; it's a versatile tool suitable for both studio and live applications. Known for its adaptability, the WA73 excels with all types of microphones, whether Condenser, Dynamic, or Ribbon. It's perfect for a wide range of sources, including vocals, guitars, bass, drums, orchestras, and keyboards. With its 80dB of gain and a Carnhill Transformer balanced signal path, the WA73 confidently tackles any recording, mixing, or engineering challenge.
UK Custom Carnhill Transformers
At the core of the WA73's sound are the custom Carnhill Transformers, manufactured in Cambridgeshire, UK. These transformers replicate the early versions found in vintage units, known for their fluid and forgiving saturation. Their inclusion in the WA73 brings a level of sonic authenticity and emotional impact that modern reproductions often miss.
Faithful to the Original Design
In keeping with the original '73-style preamps, the WA73 features tantalum and polystyrene capacitors in the signal path and a smoother output transistor for higher gain settings. This attention to detail ensures a preamp that not only sounds like a classic but also behaves like one.
Handcrafted with Precision
True to the tradition of classic '73-style preamps, the WA73 is meticulously hand-wired and assembled, including the manual population of PCB components. This handcrafted approach is believed to contribute significantly to the characteristic British tone that makes these preamps so desirable.
Key Features:
- Single channel, Class A, '73-style British microphone preamp.
- Hand-wired and assembled with UK-made Carnhill transformers.
- 80dB of gain with a resistor-stepped gain switch.
- Tone button for varying input transformer impedance.
- 4-position inductor-based hipass filter for versatile tonal shaping.
- Comprehensive I/O options, including XLR mic input and line level TRS input.
The WA73 is more than just a homage to a vintage era; it's a gateway to the rich, warm tones that have defined generations of music. It's an essential tool for anyone seeking the classic '73 preamp sound in a modern and accessible format.
