Don Classics NV73 Preamp

The NV73 is a Neve 1290 clone adapted for the API 500-series. The 1290 is the microphone preamp module from the famous Neve 1073. The preamp is designed to run on the 500-series standard +/-16v or the +/-24v power rails of the 51x 511 rack. Kits include a set of PCBs, finished faceplate, switches, and mounting hardware.

Images courtesy of The Don Classics

Notable Features:

• Designed for Carnhill transformers (descendants of those used in Neve’s original units)
• Fits in one 500-series slot
• Runs on +/16v or +/-24v power rails
• Neve 1290 triple-gain-stage design
• Grayhill gain switch
• Output trim

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Price: £139 for partial kit

Adjusted Cost: Roughly £325.66/channel (6 channels)

Besides the partial kit from The Don Classics, builders must also source two or three sets of parts from other vendors. The first set is the transformers and Grayhill gain switch from Audio Maintenance, which comes to £75.08. The second set is the rest of the components from Mouser, which The Don Classics website estimates at £55. Last is the £11.58 DC/DC converter, which is necessary for builds using a standard 500-series rack. To get the final adjusted cost, we’ll add the roughly £45/channel of an API lunchbox to get £325.66.

Bill of Materials: Items in red are not required for 51x Alliance racks

For more information see:

• Available on the DIY Recording Market
• The Prodigy-Pro build thread
• The DON Classics website.