Sound Pure's Take

The Stam Audio SA-73MP brings authentic, two-channel 1073-style preamplification into the modern studio at a fraction of the cost of original vintage modules or boutique reissues. Handcrafted in Chile, this dual-channel unit delivers the deep low-end bloom, mid-range authority, and smooth high-frequency response that made the classic 1970s British console sound an industry standard for rock, pop, and modern production.

What sets the SA-73MP apart from lower-cost 73-style preamps is Stam Audio’s refusal to compromise on transformer iron and discrete component choices. Built with genuine UK-made Carnhill input transformers and Sowter output transformers, discrete 2N3055 output transistors, and stepped gain rotary switches, the SA-73MP provides $+70\text{ dB}$ of clean, high-headroom gain. Whether pushing low-output ribbon microphones on acoustic tracks or driving the input transformers hard for rich harmonic saturation on drum overheads, vocals, and direct bass, the SA-73MP delivers undeniable analog weight and punch.

The Stam Audio SA-73MP is a premier choice for tracking facilities and home studios needing two channels of reference-grade 1073 preamplification. By pairing true UK transformer depth with discrete Class-A headroom and stepped recall accuracy, it provides maximum British console punch for vocals, drums, guitars, and stereo sources.

From Stam Audio

The Stam Audio SA-73MP is a handcrafted, two-channel discrete microphone preamplifier engineered to reproduce the signature weight, mid-range presence, and rich low-end authority of the classic 1970s Neve 1073 preamplifier. Built by hand in Chile, the SA-73MP provides two completely independent channels of vintage British console preamplification in a single 1U rackmount chassis.

At the heart of the SA-73MP is Stam Audio’s strict adherence to vintage componentry and discrete circuit topology. By utilizing UK-made Carnhill VTB9045 input transformers alongside Sowter output transformers, discrete 2N3055 output transistors, Vishay tantalum capacitors, and polystyrene film capacitors, the SA-73MP delivers authentic transformer saturation and extended dynamic headroom. With up to $+70\text{ dB}$ of gain managed by precision 21-position stepped rotary gain switches, the SA-73MP easily drives low-output dynamic and ribbon microphones while maintaining an exceptionally low noise floor.

Key Features

  • Discrete Dual-Channel 1073 Circuitry: Features two identical channels of 1970s British console preamplification built with completely discrete Class-A signal paths.

  • Premium UK Transformer Set: Equipped with Carnhill VTB9045 mic input transformers and Sowter output transformers for authentic mid-range punch, sub-bass extension, and musical harmonic saturation.

  • High-Gain Headroom: Delivers up to $+70\text{ dB}$ of discrete gain per channel driven by 21-position stepped rotary switches, allowing precise stereo matching and recall.

  • Switchable Input Impedance: Variable impedance switch ($300\ \Omega$ / $1200\ \Omega$) per channel allows tonal optimization for vintage ribbon mics, dynamic sources, or modern condenser microphones.

  • Front-Panel DI Inputs: Dedicated high-impedance instrument direct inputs feed straight into the transformer stage, providing massive analog depth for electric bass, synths, and direct guitars.

  • No-Compromise Componentry: Built with hand-measured 2N3055 output transistors, Vishay tantalum capacitors, polystyrene capacitors, and authentic Marconi-style control knobs.

Circuit Architecture
Discrete Class-A vintage 1073-style preamplifier
Channels
2 (Dual Mono / Stereo)
Gain Range
$0\text{ dB to } +70\text{ dB}$ (21-position stepped gain switch)
Input Transformers
Carnhill VTB9045 (UK)
Output Transformers
Sowter 1777 (UK)
Output Transistors
Discrete 2N3055
Mic Input Impedance
$300\ \Omega$ or $1200\ \Omega$ (switchable)
Line Input Impedance
$10\ \text{k}\Omega$
Instrument (DI) Impedance
$\approx 150\ \text{k}\Omega$
Maximum Output Level
$+27.4\text{ dBu}$ (@ $600\ \Omega$)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
$< 0.5\%$ at nominal operating levels
Frequency Response
$10\text{ Hz to } 40\text{ kHz}$ ($-3\text{ dB}$)
Controls & Switches
Gain step switch, fine output trim,$+48\text{V}$ phantom power, polarity reverse, Hi-Z/Lo-Z impedance switch, Line mode switch
Power Requirements
External power supply ($115\text{V} / 230\text{V}$ switchable)
Chassis
1U 19-inch rackmount
Sound Pure Studios Control Room A — Durham, NC

Sound Pure Studios · Durham, NC

Come hear it in our control rooms.

Sound Pure is a working studio in Durham, NC — a 1,000 sq ft live room and two pro control rooms. Book a session to audition gear in a world-class acoustic space before you buy.

$1,115