The Vintech X73 is a class A, all discrete, transformer balanced microphone preamplifier with equalizer. It is built with the same circuit design and components as the classic Neve 1073 module

Our new “X81 Class A” features the same great microphone preamplifier as our X73, but with a more comprehensive four band equalizer with “Q” adjustments on the two mid range frequencies. We utilize the same class A amplifier designs found in the Neve 1073 module throughout our X81 Class A. The equalizer section features ten low mid frequency points, 10 hi mid frequencies, 5 frequecy choices on both the low and high shelving adjustments. There is also a high pass filter, a D.I. and an ouput strength meter.

Made from an authentic reproduction of a Neve™* 1073 module Hi-Z direct inputs on the front panel 48v phantom power on the front panel Balanced mic input, line input and balanced +4 outputr from XLR connectors on the rear of the module One-year warranty

Output level control functions as fader when going straight to tape Modules are mounted horizontally and take up only one rack unit each Oversize power supply provides four times the current needed for optimum sound quality Ten-day satisfaction guarantee

The 1073 preamp yields a really fat sound. It seems to add subharmonics to the low end which makes the bottom end sound huge. It smoothes the top end which gives the highs a silky sheen. As well the 1073 compresses transients a little bit. It is a smooth, fat., larger than life sound. An added bonus is to use the DI inputs to fatten samples, synths and mixes since the DI can handle line levels. The 1073 equalizer is very broadbanded and musical. It has a hi-pass filter with four frequencies- 50 Hz, 80 Hz, 160 Hz and 300 Hz. The low frequency band is shelving and has four frequencies – 35 Hz, 60 Hz, 110 Hz and 220 Hz. The low end of this equalizer is so tight that you can boost 220 Hz and not muddy up the sound. The mid band has six frequencies – 360 Hz, 720 Hz, 1.6 kHz, 3.2 kHz, 4.8 kHz and 7.2 kHz. The bandwidth is broad so you can boost or cut a lot without making things sound processed or unnatural. The hi band is shelving and is fixed at 12 kHz. It is smooth and silky and a little goes a long way.

The Channel in a Box (CIB) was the first module in the Pure Path range of creative signal processing devices. Inspired by the success of the 9098i, the no compromise design of the CIB combines Mic Pre-Amp, Line Amplifier, Hi and Lo Pass Filters, 4 Band Equaliser and Classically Inspired Compressor, all carefully designed into a 1U-rack space.