What is the primary function of the Behringer 1273?

It is a dual-channel preamplifier and equaliser designed to boost microphone, line, or instrument signals while adding vintage-style harmonic character and tonal shaping.

What type of circuitry does the 1273 use?

The 1273 employs all-discrete Class A circuitry, which is known for high signal integrity and a specific vintage sonic character.

How much gain is available on the Behringer 1273?

The unit provides up to 80 dB of gain, which is controlled via an electronically controlled stepped rotary switch for precision and low noise.

Does the 1273 feature transformers?

Yes, it is equipped with custom-built Midas input and output transformers to ensure sound quality and depth.

What inputs are available on the device?

The 1273 offers dedicated microphone, line-level, and high-impedance instrument inputs to accommodate various sources.

What are the features of the EQ section?

It includes a three-band parametric EQ with high and low shelving, a sweepable midrange band, and a high-pass filter.

Can the 1273 be used to remove low-frequency noise?

Yes, the built-in high-pass filter is specifically designed to cut low-frequency mud and improve signal clarity.

Is the gain control continuous or stepped?

The gain control is a stepped rotary switch, allowing for precise recalls and matched settings between the two channels.

Who is this preamp best suited for?

It is ideal for audio engineers and musicians who want vintage-style warmth and a complete channel strip for recording vocals and instruments.

How does the 1273 compare to simple inline preamps like the FetHead?

Unlike inline preamps that only provide fixed gain, the 1273 is a full rackmount unit with adjustable gain, EQ, and multiple input types.

What brand of transformers are used in the 1273?

The unit uses custom-built transformers from Midas, a brand known for high-quality audio console components.

What is the typical price range for the Behringer 1273?

The typical price for the unit is approximately GBP 480, making it a competitive option for a dual-channel transformer-balanced preamp.

Gear article

Behringer 1273 2-Channel Mic Preamp and EQ

The Behringer 1273 is a 2-channel microphone preamplifier and three-band equaliser based on classic discrete Class A circuitry. It features custom-built Midas transformers and electronically controlled stepped gain, designed to provide vintage character with modern precision for recording applications.

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Overview

The Behringer 1273 is a dual-channel rackmount signal processor that combines a high-gain microphone preamplifier with a comprehensive equalisation section. Built around a discrete Class A circuit architecture, it aims to replicate the sonic characteristics of classic vintage consoles. The unit provides versatility for studio environments by offering dedicated inputs for microphone, line-level, and instrument-level sources.

Circuitry and Components

At the core of the 1273 are custom-built Midas input and output transformers, which are integral to the unit's signal integrity and depth. The preamplification stage utilizes an electronically controlled 80 dB stepped rotary gain switch. This design ensures repeatable settings and low-noise performance even at high gain levels. The use of discrete components rather than integrated circuits follows traditional high-end audio design principles to preserve vintage character.

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Equalisation and Controls

The unit features a three-band parametric EQ section for each channel. This includes:

High and Low Shelving: For broad tonal shaping of the frequency extremes.
Sweepable Midrange: Allows for precise targeting of specific frequencies to add presence or remove boxiness.
High-Pass Filter: A dedicated filter to eliminate low-frequency 'mud' and increase signal clarity before it reaches the recording interface.

Comparison and Market Context

The Behringer 1273 competes in a market of '73-style' preamplifiers. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to units like the Warm Audio WA273-EQ, offering similar dual-channel functionality and EQ features. While other preamps like the TritonAudio FetHead Phantom or sE Electronics DM2 TNT provide simple inline gain, the 1273 is a complete channel strip solution designed for comprehensive tone sculpting and harmonic enrichment.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Behringer 1273?: It is a dual-channel preamplifier and equaliser designed to boost microphone, line, or instrument signals while adding vintage-style harmonic character and tonal shaping.
What type of circuitry does the 1273 use?: The 1273 employs all-discrete Class A circuitry, which is known for high signal integrity and a specific vintage sonic character.
How much gain is available on the Behringer 1273?: The unit provides up to 80 dB of gain, which is controlled via an electronically controlled stepped rotary switch for precision and low noise.
Does the 1273 feature transformers?: Yes, it is equipped with custom-built Midas input and output transformers to ensure sound quality and depth.
What inputs are available on the device?: The 1273 offers dedicated microphone, line-level, and high-impedance instrument inputs to accommodate various sources.
What are the features of the EQ section?: It includes a three-band parametric EQ with high and low shelving, a sweepable midrange band, and a high-pass filter.
Can the 1273 be used to remove low-frequency noise?: Yes, the built-in high-pass filter is specifically designed to cut low-frequency mud and improve signal clarity.
Is the gain control continuous or stepped?: The gain control is a stepped rotary switch, allowing for precise recalls and matched settings between the two channels.
Who is this preamp best suited for?: It is ideal for audio engineers and musicians who want vintage-style warmth and a complete channel strip for recording vocals and instruments.
How does the 1273 compare to simple inline preamps like the FetHead?: Unlike inline preamps that only provide fixed gain, the 1273 is a full rackmount unit with adjustable gain, EQ, and multiple input types.
What brand of transformers are used in the 1273?: The unit uses custom-built transformers from Midas, a brand known for high-quality audio console components.
What is the typical price range for the Behringer 1273?: The typical price for the unit is approximately GBP 480, making it a competitive option for a dual-channel transformer-balanced preamp.