Behringer 73

The 1073 was an iconic piece of hardware that took the music industry by storm and transformed into a beloved fixture in studios worldwide. This unique-sounding mic preamp was a staple in renowned studios like Abbey Road, Sound City, and Capitol Studios, and helped shape the sound of some of the greatest legends like Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, Stevie Wonder and even Adele.

Today, we pay homage to that iconic studio cornerstone with the Behringer 73, a more compact version of the Behringer 1273. Developed with one of the original engineers, their valuable knowledge and experience ensure that the 73 not only maintains the great sound of the original but also meets the demands of modern production.

FEATURES

• High performance, compact 500 series premium microphone/line preamplifier based on the classic 1073 design

• Class A, all discrete signal path for highest signal integrity

• Custom-built Midas input and output transformers

• Versatile Gain control to handle various type of inputs including mic, line and instrument

• Electronically controlled resistor-stepped 80 dB rotary gain switch for extreme precision and low noise

• Trim level control with integrated phantom power switch

• Signal indicator and intuitive phantom power LED with protective automated switching

• Illuminated switches for Phase, Hi/Lo Impedance and Front/Rear Input selection

• Transformer-balanced inputs on combo connectors

• Premium-quality components throughout for a crystal-clear audiophile signal path

Compact
The 73 is a 1273 in a compact package and shares the same architecture. This makes it great for combining with your favorite EQ or compressor or building a whole array of preamps in one rack. The solid steel chassis gives it durability and provides isolation from other units in your setup.

Versatile Operation
The 73 is built around a Class A discrete circuit, which ensures the highest signal integrity with minimal coloration. The input and output stages are equipped with a high-quality, custom-built Midas transformer, which is great for maintaining signal clarity and integrity.

The First Steps
The 73 also has a versatile Gain control for various input types, such as mic, line and instrument, providing comprehensive control and flexibility for different recording scenarios. The stepped rotary Gain switch allows you to precisely set optimal input levels up to 80 dB with the least amount of noise and is also great for consistently recalling your settings for every mix scenario. The Trim control gives you even finer level control to your recording device. Combined with the precise 80 dB Gain control, you can get the perfect level for even the quietest of sources.

Additional Controls

• Phase Invert

• Hi/Lo Impedance

• Front/Rear Input Selection

An Amazing Value
The Behringer 73 imbues your sound palette with the depth, detail, and sonic richness reminiscent of classic modules. It’s perfect for recording vocals or instruments. You can even have multiple 73s in a rack to dial in each mic in the chain exactly the way you need. Infuse your studio with the timeless analog warmth and textured layers that have defined generations of music. 

SPECIFICATIONS

Audio Inputs
Microphone
Type:

• XLR and 1/4" TRS combi socket, transformer balanced front

• Connection to 500 series rack input connector,

• transformer balanced rear

Impedance: 1200 Ω / 300 Ω, balanced
Max. input level: +10 dBu
Sensitivity: -20 dB to -80 dB in 5 dB steps
Mic EIN @ 80 dB gain, 22 Hz to 22 kHz: -125 dBu Unweighted

Line
Type:

• XLR and 1/4" TRS combi socket, transformer balanced front

• Connection to 500 series rack input connector

• Transformer balanced rear

Impedance: > 4 kΩ, balanced
Max. input level: +28 dBu
Sensitivity: -20 dB to +10 dB in 5 dB steps
Noise at unity gain, 22 Hz to 22 kHz: -83 dBu Unweighted

Audio Outputs
Type: Connection to 500 series rack output connector, transformer balanced rear
Impedence: < 100 Ω balanced
Max. output level: +28 dBu with 100 kΩ load, +26 dBu with 600 Ω Load

System Specifications
Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ±0.5 dB
Distortion (THD+N): <0.07%, 50 Hz - 20 kHz, +4 dBu
Noise: -83 dB, 22 Hz - 22 kHz unweighted
Circuit: Discrete Class-A amplifiers

Controls
Buttons:

• Phase/Polarity Reverse

• LO Z, 1200 Ω/300 Ω, operates on the mic input only

• FR I/P, switches between the 500 series rack input and front combi connectors

Controls:

• Rotary sensitivity switch, +10 to -80 dB in 5 dB steps

• Trim control, -20 dB to +5 dB with unity gain center detent

• +48 V Phantom power, press trim control knob to enable/disable

• Off = < -25 dBu, Green = > -25 dBu, Red = > +26 dBu

Power Requirements
Voltage: +16 V, -16 V and +48 V
Power consumption: +16 V = < 200 mA, -16 V = < 15 mA

Physical
Standard operating temperature range: 5° C – 45° C (41° F – 113° F)
Dimensions (H x W x D): 132.1 x 37.9 x 176.4 mm (5.2 x 1.5 x 6.9")
Weight: 1.1 kg (2.4 lbs)

For more information, click here to visit the manufacturers website.