Golden Age Project Pre-573 Premier 500 Series Microphone Preamp

Unlock the classic warmth and punch of vintage British preamps with the Golden Age Project Pre-573 Premier 500 Series Microphone Preamp. Designed for discerning engineers, this solid-state preamp combines authentic sonic character with versatile modern features to elevate every recording.

Many preamps struggle to deliver clean gain on passive ribbon mics and quiet sources. The Pre-573 Premier solves this with up to 80 dB of gain, ensuring pristine amplification without noise. Its switchable mic input impedance (1200 ohms or 300 ohms) optimizes the electrical load, allowing you to tailor the response and tone to your microphone’s characteristics for maximum sonic fidelity.

The inclusion of phantom power enables seamless use with condenser microphones, while the polarity switch helps correct phase issues instantly—critical for multi-mic setups. Additionally, the selectable 2-position highpass filter (45 Hz and 180 Hz) effectively attenuates low-frequency rumble and handling noise, preserving clarity and focus in your recordings.

Flexibility extends to input options with a dedicated 1/4″ front-panel analog input that supports both hi-Z active and mid-Z passive instrument signals. This facilitates direct injection of guitars or basses without the need for additional DI boxes. The preamp also includes a +5/+10 dB additional gain toggle, allowing fine-tuning of input sensitivity to match your source precisely.

The Pre-573 Premier fits a single 500 Series module slot, making it an ideal space-saving solution for racks. Its robust build quality features no integrated circuits, relying instead on UK-made Carnhill transformers and premium tantalum and polystyrene capacitors, replicating the sonic integrity of renowned 1970s British analog gear. This ensures reliability and sonic consistency over extended use.

Additional professional conveniences include a polarity reverse switch, a separate output level control for driving transformer saturation and tonal color, and an insert jack for integrating external EQ or compression. The simple single-LED level indicator provides clear visual feedback, while the soft-start circuit protects components by gradually powering up the unit.

With matched 6.8 k ohm phantom power resistors for superior common-mode rejection and selectable 600 ohm output termination, the Pre-573 Premier is engineered for studio-grade performance and compatibility. It offers the coveted vintage sound signature with practical modern enhancements, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking authentic analog warmth within a compact 500 Series format.

Invest in a preamp that delivers detailed, dynamic sound with the tonal depth of classic designs and the flexibility to handle a wide variety of microphones and instruments. The Golden Age Project Pre-573 Premier sets a new standard in affordable, professional 500 Series preamplification.