Warm Audio WA73 Microphone Preamp

Warm Audio WA73 Microphone Preamp

The Warm Audio WA73 Microphone Preamp is a single-channel Class A preamp suited to recording vocals instruments and line-level sources with analogue character. Inspired by classic British console designs, it combines discrete circuitry with UK-made Carnhill transformers to deliver detailed recordings with warmth and depth.

The microphone input supports condenser dynamic and ribbon microphones while the front-panel Hi-Z input makes it simple to connect guitars basses and synthesisers directly. The WA73 also includes practical shaping controls to help refine recordings during tracking. A selectable Tone switch changes the input impedance for a more open or harmonically coloured response and the switchable high-pass filter helps reduce unwanted low-end build-up.Insert connections on the rear panel make it easy to add external compressors or EQs into the signal path too. With up to 80dB of gain available, the WA73 is suitable for everything from low-output ribbon microphones to louder line-level sources in studio recording setups.

Classic analog character for recording

The WA73 uses a fully discrete Class A signal path combined with Carnhill input and output transformers to produce the kind of tone associated with vintage British recording consoles. This design helps recordings retain detail and presence while adding subtle harmonic colour through the gain stages.

The Tone switch changes the transformer input configuration between 1200 and 300 ohms, allowing you to tailor the response depending on the microphone or source being recorded. Dynamic and condenser microphones can sound more open at higher impedance settings while ribbon microphones often benefit from the lower impedance option. This flexibility makes the WA73 useful across vocals drums guitars bass and spoken word recording sessions.

Flexible gain control for different sources

The stepped gain control offers 22 positions and is designed to work with microphone line and Hi-Z instrument sources. With up to 80dB of gain available, the WA73 can comfortably handle quieter ribbon microphones alongside modern condenser microphones and electronic instruments.

The dedicated output control lets you push the internal gain stages harder for added saturation while keeping output levels manageable for your interface or recorder. A switchable polarity control is also included to help avoid phase cancellation issues when using multiple microphones together. Phantom power is available for condenser microphones too, supplied at a constant level to maintain stable operation during recording.

Useful shaping tools during tracking

The WA73 includes several built-in tools designed to help shape signals before they reach your recording interface. A selectable high-pass filter offers four frequency points at 50Hz 80Hz 160Hz and 300Hz, helping reduce rumble unwanted low frequencies and excessive proximity effect during recording. The insert loop on the rear panel also makes it easy to integrate external hardware processors directly into the signal chain.

Compressors EQs and other outboard gear can be connected without needing to reroute your setup through a patchbay. Since the insert sits after the input transformer and initial gain stage, it gives you flexible options for processing signals while retaining the preamp’s analogue character.

Designed for modern studio workflows

The WA73 combines vintage-inspired circuitry with practical modern connectivity for project studios and professional recording environments. Rear-panel balanced XLR and TRS outputs allow straightforward integration with audio interfaces mixers and hardware recorders while the front-panel Hi-Z input supports direct instrument recording without additional DI boxes.

A ground lift switch is included to help reduce hum caused by ground loops between connected equipment. The unit is housed in a single rackspace steel chassis that fits easily into studio racks and mobile recording setups. Warm Audio also designed the WA73 with hand-wired and hand-assembled construction methods, helping maintain consistent performance across long recording sessions.

Features

• Single channel, class A microphone preamp

• UK made Carnhill Transformers

• Hand wired, hand assembled

• 80dB of gain - resistor stepped gain switch

• Fully discrete

• TONE button - Changes input transformer impedance for varying tone

• Polarity switch

• 48v phantom power

• 4 position inductor based hipass filter - 50, 80, 160, 300 Hz

• XLR mic input

• Line level TRS input

• TS Send/Receive insert jacks

• XLR & TRS line level outputs

• Direct in, instrument input

• Output control

• LED level indication

• 19" rackable

• Ground lift switch

• Internal IEC 115v/230v power inlet

Learn more about Warm Audio

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