The optional Digital I/O module can be fitted (or retrofitted) into the 1073SPX and provides AES and FireWire digital connectivity at sample rates up to 192kHz. Just as AMS Neve knows its way around analog preamp design, as makers of the 88D console, reputed to be the best sounding digital console made, you can be assured that the quality of conversion is nothing less than what you'd expect from Neve. In essence, the genuine Neve sound revered by engineers and producers the world over. The 1073SPX transformer-based sonic richness will add warmth and depth to recordings, brings out subtle ambience, maintains spatial positioning, and captures a more precise image.
It also features a high-pass filter, to keep low-end rumble out of your mix. For example, if you want the perfect snare sound, with body and high-end sizzle, a boost at the low band's 220Hz, mid-band 7.2kHz, and high shelf 12k and you're there. This simple yet highly musical equalizer simply makes everything sound the way it should.
Like its forebear, the 1073SPX has an authentic transformer-coupled Neve 1073 Class-A microphone preamplifier, with 3-band EQ (fixed HF plus two switchable bands with cut/boost capability). Optional 24-bit/192kHz digital I/O module with mastering-grade A/D, AES3 and FireWire I/O.External multi-voltage, universal power supply.7-stage LED signal level meter displays mic/line/DI input level, EQ level, or output level up to +24dB.Post-EQ insert send/return - a line level send is available from the post-EQ stage and a return just before the main output stage.Pre-EQ insert send/return - a line level send is available from the mic-preamp output stage and a return just before the EQ stage.Insert send and return loop allows external equipment to be connected easily to the 1073SPX audio chain, such as mono limiter/compressors.Switchable +48V phantom power, selectable high and low impedance, 20dB pad, and ground lift for the DI.Convenient front-panel connectors for Mic, Line, and DI inputs with switchable mic/line input connectors on the rear panel.Exclusive Neve Marinair input and output transformers.
With a 1U rackmount chassis, the 1073SPX includes an external universal PSU and removable panel for an optional digital I/O module giving you a complete Neve-quality DAW front end. Fast-forward to today, the 1073SPX maintains the classic 1073 sound with added functionality, including an integrated DI input, phantom power, selectable insert, level meters, output level control, and front-panel input connectors for easy access. What set the 1073 apart from the pack was its wide bandwidth frequency response and the rich-sounding secret sauce provided by Neve-designed custom Marinair transformers (“Marinair” sauce. Of all the options, the EQ section of 1073 module emerged as the favorite, mostly due to the 12kHz high-frequency shelf. The thinking behind the 10-series was to provide the same preamp topology with various equalizer sections to provide versatility for the 80-series consoles. Since its introduction in the early '70s, the Neve 1073 10-series console module preamp established itself as audio royalty. That’s why the 1073 mic preamp is considered by many to be the very essence of the Neve sound.The AMS Neve 1073SPX is a single-channel, transformer-coupled preamp built to the exact specifications of the original 1073 replicating its sonics precisely, with optional digital I/O module giving your DAW a complete Neve front end. The Neve 1073 mic pre and EQ combination adds warmth and depth to recordings, brings out subtle ambience, maintains spatial positioning, and more effectively captures a precise image. All Neve channel amplifiers are designed to accept signals from a wide range of microphone and line sources. The Class A design 1073 microphone preamplifier features 3 bands of EQ, with one fixed high frequency band, two switchable bands with cut and boost capability, and a high pass filter. We think you’ll find his conclusions quite comforting. Looking for an outside opinion? Lynn Fuston at EQ Magazine performed an in-depth review of the modern-day 1073 versus a vintage model. Considerable resources have been devoted to the acquisition of the original components to ensure the sound remains true. Handcrafted and completely hand-wired by Neve’s dedicated professionals in Burnley, England, the modern-day 1073® is produced to the exact specifications of the original modules. 1073 Mic Preamp & Equaliser The big, punchy sound of the 1073 complements any musical genre – from rock to pop, hip-hop to rap, thrash to classical.