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Heritage Audio 8173 80 Series Microphone Preamp and EQ Module

$2,999.00
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Description

Heritage Audio 8173 80 Series Microphone Preamp and EQ Module

Heritage Audio 8173 Preamp EQ Module Overview

  Heritage Audio 8173 80 series microphone preamp EQ module

The 1073 Preamp Meets the 1081 EQ — Finally

For decades, engineers working on classic 80 Series consoles faced a choice: the 1073's warm Class A preamp with its limited two-band EQ, or the 1081's far more flexible four-band EQ with its less desirable Class A/B output stage. Heritage Audio's answer is the 8173 — a module that puts 1073-grade Class A amplification in front of the 1081's full four-band equalizer, a combination that should have existed from the start.

The 8173 uses Carnhill Transformers' Oxford factory-wound custom input transformers co-designed to Heritage Audio's requirements, ensuring the correct harmonic distortion content and saturation points of original units. Custom polystyrene and polypropylene film tone capacitors were developed to match the Siemens Styroflex and Mullard Mustard types used in late 1960s and early 1970s British consoles. All five PCB cards are handwired in Heritage Audio's factory in Spain using the same old-fashioned soldering techniques of the era.

 Heritage Audio 8173 four band EQ 1081 mid bands inductor

Four-Band EQ Covering the Full Audible Spectrum

The 8173's EQ section combines 1073-style Baxandall shelving bands for highs and lows with the full 1081 mid band sweep coverage. High-frequency shelving offers ±16 dB at 10, 12, or 16 kHz. Low-frequency shelving offers ±16 dB across four frequencies: 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz. Both shelf bands use genuine Baxandall curves for that incredibly natural-sounding, musical roll-off and boost that made the original famous.

The 1081-derived mid bands are inductor-based with fixed Q and cover almost the entire audible frequency range. The upper mid delivers ±18 dB across ten selectable center frequencies from 1.5 kHz to 8.2 kHz — perfect for adding presence, air, or sharpening attack. The lower mid offers ±18 dB across ten frequencies from 220 Hz to 1.2 kHz, covering everything from clearing low-mid mud to shaping body and warmth. An 18 dB/octave high-pass filter is switchable between 50, 80, and 300 Hz.

 Heritage Audio 8173 Class A ribbon mic 80dB gain impedance

80dB Class A Preamp With Selectable Input Impedance

The 8173's Class A microphone preamp offers up to 80 dB of gain in 5 dB steps with switchable HI/LO input impedance. In HI mode the minimum impedance is 1,200 Ω, ideal for modern condensers and dynamics. In LO mode the minimum is 300 Ω, optimized for passive ribbon microphones. Higher gain positions gradually increase impedance further, making the 8173 an excellent choice for even the most demanding low-output ribbons.

A 10 dB Class A line amplifier with bridging 10 kΩ input impedance and a 2N3055-driven high-headroom output stage handles line-level sources. Output impedance is less than 75 Ω transformer balanced and floating, capable of driving 600 Ω loads. Maximum output exceeds +26 dBu into 600 Ω and +32 dBu into 10 kΩ. The module is compatible with vintage 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, and Heritage Audio Rack 2 enclosures. As an authorized dealer, Pro Audio Reserve ensures you receive a genuine Heritage Audio product backed by full manufacturer warranty and long-term support.

Highlights

  • Combines 1073-style Class A preamp with full 1081-style four-band EQ
  • 80 dB Class A mic preamp in 5 dB steps with HI/LO selectable input impedance
  • 10 dB Class A line amplifier with 2N3055-driven output stage
  • High-frequency shelving: ±16 dB at 10, 12, or 16 kHz (Baxandall, 1084-style selection)
  • Low-frequency shelving: ±16 dB at 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz (Baxandall)
  • Upper mid EQ: ±18 dB at 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.7, 3.3, 3.9, 4.7, 5.6, 6.8, 8.2 kHz (inductor, fixed Q)
  • Lower mid EQ: ±18 dB at 220, 270, 330, 390, 470, 560, 680, 820, 1000, 1200 Hz (inductor, fixed Q)
  • High-pass filter: 18 dB/octave at 50, 80, or 300 Hz
  • Custom Carnhill Transformers input transformer (co-designed with Heritage Audio)
  • Custom vintage-matched tone capacitors (polystyrene and polypropylene film)
  • Mic input impedance: HI = 1,200 Ω min, LO = 300 Ω min
  • Line input impedance: 10 kΩ bridging
  • Output impedance: less than 75 Ω (transformer balanced and floating)
  • Maximum output: >+26 dBu into 600 Ω, >+32 dBu into 10 kΩ
  • Noise: less than -100 dBu
  • THD: less than 0.025% at 1 kHz, less than 0.05% at 100 Hz
  • Handwired in Heritage Audio's factory in Spain across five plug-in PCB cards
  • Compatible with 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, and Rack 2

Heritage Audio 8173 Specifications

Specification Details
Format 80 Series module (8¾" format)
Compatible Chassis Vintage 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, Heritage Audio Rack 2
Preamp Type Class A, solid state
Maximum Mic Preamp Gain Slightly greater than 80 dB (in 5 dB steps)
Mic Input Impedance HI: 1,200 Ω minimum | LO: 300 Ω minimum (transformer balanced and floating)
Line Input Impedance 10 kΩ bridging (transformer balanced and floating)
DI Input Impedance Greater than 2 MΩ (unbalanced)
Line Amplifier 10 dB Class A, 2N3055-driven high headroom output stage
Output Impedance Less than 75 Ω (transformer balanced and floating)
Maximum Output >+26 dBu into 600 Ω | >+32 dBu into 10 kΩ
Frequency Response 20 Hz (+0.3 dB) to 20 kHz (-0.2 dB)
Noise Less than -100 dBu
THD Less than 0.025% at 1 kHz | Less than 0.05% at 100 Hz
High Frequency EQ ±16 dB shelving at 10, 12, or 16 kHz (Baxandall)
Low Frequency EQ ±16 dB shelving at 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz (Baxandall)
Upper Mid EQ ±18 dB peaking (fixed Q, inductor) at 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.7, 3.3, 3.9, 4.7, 5.6, 6.8, 8.2 kHz
Lower Mid EQ ±18 dB peaking (fixed Q, inductor) at 220, 270, 330, 390, 470, 560, 680, 820, 1000, 1200 Hz
High-Pass Filter 18 dB/octave at 50, 80, or 300 Hz (inductor based)
Phantom Power +48V supplied by chassis
Power Consumption Less than 86 mA per rail @ ±16V DC
Construction Five plug-in PCB cards, fully handwired, Carnhill input transformer
Manufactured Spain

What's in the Box

Included Items
Heritage Audio 8173 80 Series Microphone Preamp and EQ Module
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

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Description

Heritage Audio 8173 80 Series Microphone Preamp and EQ Module

Heritage Audio 8173 Preamp EQ Module Overview

  Heritage Audio 8173 80 series microphone preamp EQ module

The 1073 Preamp Meets the 1081 EQ — Finally

For decades, engineers working on classic 80 Series consoles faced a choice: the 1073's warm Class A preamp with its limited two-band EQ, or the 1081's far more flexible four-band EQ with its less desirable Class A/B output stage. Heritage Audio's answer is the 8173 — a module that puts 1073-grade Class A amplification in front of the 1081's full four-band equalizer, a combination that should have existed from the start.

The 8173 uses Carnhill Transformers' Oxford factory-wound custom input transformers co-designed to Heritage Audio's requirements, ensuring the correct harmonic distortion content and saturation points of original units. Custom polystyrene and polypropylene film tone capacitors were developed to match the Siemens Styroflex and Mullard Mustard types used in late 1960s and early 1970s British consoles. All five PCB cards are handwired in Heritage Audio's factory in Spain using the same old-fashioned soldering techniques of the era.

 Heritage Audio 8173 four band EQ 1081 mid bands inductor

Four-Band EQ Covering the Full Audible Spectrum

The 8173's EQ section combines 1073-style Baxandall shelving bands for highs and lows with the full 1081 mid band sweep coverage. High-frequency shelving offers ±16 dB at 10, 12, or 16 kHz. Low-frequency shelving offers ±16 dB across four frequencies: 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz. Both shelf bands use genuine Baxandall curves for that incredibly natural-sounding, musical roll-off and boost that made the original famous.

The 1081-derived mid bands are inductor-based with fixed Q and cover almost the entire audible frequency range. The upper mid delivers ±18 dB across ten selectable center frequencies from 1.5 kHz to 8.2 kHz — perfect for adding presence, air, or sharpening attack. The lower mid offers ±18 dB across ten frequencies from 220 Hz to 1.2 kHz, covering everything from clearing low-mid mud to shaping body and warmth. An 18 dB/octave high-pass filter is switchable between 50, 80, and 300 Hz.

 Heritage Audio 8173 Class A ribbon mic 80dB gain impedance

80dB Class A Preamp With Selectable Input Impedance

The 8173's Class A microphone preamp offers up to 80 dB of gain in 5 dB steps with switchable HI/LO input impedance. In HI mode the minimum impedance is 1,200 Ω, ideal for modern condensers and dynamics. In LO mode the minimum is 300 Ω, optimized for passive ribbon microphones. Higher gain positions gradually increase impedance further, making the 8173 an excellent choice for even the most demanding low-output ribbons.

A 10 dB Class A line amplifier with bridging 10 kΩ input impedance and a 2N3055-driven high-headroom output stage handles line-level sources. Output impedance is less than 75 Ω transformer balanced and floating, capable of driving 600 Ω loads. Maximum output exceeds +26 dBu into 600 Ω and +32 dBu into 10 kΩ. The module is compatible with vintage 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, and Heritage Audio Rack 2 enclosures. As an authorized dealer, Pro Audio Reserve ensures you receive a genuine Heritage Audio product backed by full manufacturer warranty and long-term support.

Highlights

  • Combines 1073-style Class A preamp with full 1081-style four-band EQ
  • 80 dB Class A mic preamp in 5 dB steps with HI/LO selectable input impedance
  • 10 dB Class A line amplifier with 2N3055-driven output stage
  • High-frequency shelving: ±16 dB at 10, 12, or 16 kHz (Baxandall, 1084-style selection)
  • Low-frequency shelving: ±16 dB at 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz (Baxandall)
  • Upper mid EQ: ±18 dB at 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.7, 3.3, 3.9, 4.7, 5.6, 6.8, 8.2 kHz (inductor, fixed Q)
  • Lower mid EQ: ±18 dB at 220, 270, 330, 390, 470, 560, 680, 820, 1000, 1200 Hz (inductor, fixed Q)
  • High-pass filter: 18 dB/octave at 50, 80, or 300 Hz
  • Custom Carnhill Transformers input transformer (co-designed with Heritage Audio)
  • Custom vintage-matched tone capacitors (polystyrene and polypropylene film)
  • Mic input impedance: HI = 1,200 Ω min, LO = 300 Ω min
  • Line input impedance: 10 kΩ bridging
  • Output impedance: less than 75 Ω (transformer balanced and floating)
  • Maximum output: >+26 dBu into 600 Ω, >+32 dBu into 10 kΩ
  • Noise: less than -100 dBu
  • THD: less than 0.025% at 1 kHz, less than 0.05% at 100 Hz
  • Handwired in Heritage Audio's factory in Spain across five plug-in PCB cards
  • Compatible with 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, and Rack 2

Heritage Audio 8173 Specifications

Specification Details
Format 80 Series module (8¾" format)
Compatible Chassis Vintage 80 Series consoles, Heritage Audio Frame 8, Heritage Audio Rack 2
Preamp Type Class A, solid state
Maximum Mic Preamp Gain Slightly greater than 80 dB (in 5 dB steps)
Mic Input Impedance HI: 1,200 Ω minimum | LO: 300 Ω minimum (transformer balanced and floating)
Line Input Impedance 10 kΩ bridging (transformer balanced and floating)
DI Input Impedance Greater than 2 MΩ (unbalanced)
Line Amplifier 10 dB Class A, 2N3055-driven high headroom output stage
Output Impedance Less than 75 Ω (transformer balanced and floating)
Maximum Output >+26 dBu into 600 Ω | >+32 dBu into 10 kΩ
Frequency Response 20 Hz (+0.3 dB) to 20 kHz (-0.2 dB)
Noise Less than -100 dBu
THD Less than 0.025% at 1 kHz | Less than 0.05% at 100 Hz
High Frequency EQ ±16 dB shelving at 10, 12, or 16 kHz (Baxandall)
Low Frequency EQ ±16 dB shelving at 35, 60, 110, or 220 Hz (Baxandall)
Upper Mid EQ ±18 dB peaking (fixed Q, inductor) at 1.5, 1.8, 2.2, 2.7, 3.3, 3.9, 4.7, 5.6, 6.8, 8.2 kHz
Lower Mid EQ ±18 dB peaking (fixed Q, inductor) at 220, 270, 330, 390, 470, 560, 680, 820, 1000, 1200 Hz
High-Pass Filter 18 dB/octave at 50, 80, or 300 Hz (inductor based)
Phantom Power +48V supplied by chassis
Power Consumption Less than 86 mA per rail @ ±16V DC
Construction Five plug-in PCB cards, fully handwired, Carnhill input transformer
Manufactured Spain

What's in the Box

Included Items
Heritage Audio 8173 80 Series Microphone Preamp and EQ Module
User Documentation
Shipping

Shipping & Returns

  • We deliver all US orders in 3–5 business days
  • Free cancellations
  • Returns accepted within 30 days (unused items)

Order Confirmation

Once your order is placed, you will receive an order confirmation email. This confirms that we have received your order and have pre-authorized your credit card for the purchase. After confirming availability with our suppliers, we will proceed accordingly:

  • If your item is available and ready to ship within 1–2 business days, we will process the charge and arrange for shipment.

  • If your item is on backorder or unavailable, the pre-authorization will be voided and you will be notified by email.

  • Please note: While most items ship out within 1–2 business days, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location and carrier handling.

Order Shipment

If your item is in stock and your payment has been processed, your order will typically ship within 1–2 business days. Total delivery time is approximately 3–5 business days from the date of order. Once shipped, you will receive tracking information at the email address provided during checkout within 24 hours of dispatch.

If you have not received tracking information within 3–5 business days of placing your order, please contact us at support@proaudioreserve.com.

The Distributor-Direct Advantage

To ensure you receive the most recent hardware revisions and 100% factory-sealed units, Pro Audio Reserve utilizes a Distributor-Direct fulfillment model. Unlike big-box retailers that may ship "floor models" or gear that has been sitting in general-purpose warehouses, your equipment is pulled directly from the primary manufacturer hub, serialized, and dispatched. This process ensures the highest level of quality control for professional-grade recording equipment.

Shipping Policy

We currently offer free shipping within the United States only. If the checkout process on our website allows you to enter a shipping address and complete your order, your location is eligible to receive delivery.

Changing Shipping Address

If you need to change your shipping address after your order has been processed or shipped, we will do our best to accommodate the request. Please note that address changes may result in delivery delays. Any additional costs incurred due to address changes, including carrier fees or rerouting charges will be the responsibility of the customer. No exceptions.

Shipping Times

All shipping times provided are estimates and should not be considered guarantees. Most orders ship out within 1–2 business days from the time payment is processed. However, total delivery time is typically 3–5 business days, depending on your location, carrier performance, and supplier fulfillment timelines.

We work closely with our vendors to ensure timely deliveries, but please note that supply chain disruptions, high-demand periods, or weather events may occasionally cause delays beyond our control.

  • To avoid misunderstandings: The “shipping time” refers to the total time from order placement to final delivery, not just when the item leaves the warehouse.

  • Cancellations: If you choose to cancel your order because it has not arrived within the estimated delivery window, you may be responsible for applicable shipping charges, restocking fees, warehouse handling costs, and other related fees.

  • Chargebacks: Customers who initiate chargebacks due to shipping delays without contacting us first may be held legally responsible for losses. We strongly encourage open communication so we can resolve any delivery concerns directly and efficiently via our Atlanta-based support team.

Delivery Options

  • Threshold Shipping: Your item will be delivered to your front door, porch, garage, or a covered entryway.

 

Why Buy From Us

We get it. You've got a lot of choice when it comes to online retailers.
Here's why we think you should shop with us at ProAudioReserve.

  • Free Shipping USA wide. 
  • 30 Day Easy Returns. Not happy with your product, we'll take it back noquestions asked.
  • Great Service. We pride ourselves on the best service, anywhere.

Reviews

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
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(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
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