Golden Age Project PRE-73 Jr

The AIR boost is a high-frequency EQ setting that adds a subtle, gentle lift to the top end of your signal. It helps bring out clarity and 'sheen' in vocals or acoustic instruments, making them sit more prominently in a mix without sounding harsh.

Yes, the PRE-73 Jr features a high-impedance instrument DI input on the front panel. This allows you to plug your guitar or bass directly into the unit, giving you that classic transformer-based warmth before your signal hits your interface.

Yes, it includes switchable 48V phantom power, which is essential for powering condenser microphones. Just ensure you engage the switch only after your microphone is connected to avoid any potential pops or damage.

The 'Jr' is a more compact, desktop-friendly version of the classic PRE-73 design. While it retains the core vintage-style circuitry and Carnhill transformers that give the unit its signature sound, it is streamlined to fit smaller studio spaces without sacrificing the essential gain and tone-shaping features.

Carnhill transformers are highly regarded for their ability to add harmonic richness and a 'musical' saturation to your audio. They provide the classic, vintage-style analog character that many engineers look for to make digital recordings sound warmer and more cohesive.

Yes, you can use the preamp to add analog color to pre-recorded tracks. By running a line-level signal from your interface into the input, you can drive the preamp to introduce that transformer saturation and then use the output level control to manage the signal going back into your DAW.