The Heritage Audio i73 Pro: NEVE Sound in an Interface?

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If you're a fan of warm, rich audio with a vintage touch, you’re probably no stranger to the coveted Neve 1073 preamp sound. Back in 2006, I got my hands on the Vintech Audio 473 preamps, modeled after the Neve 1073, and it’s been my go-to ever since. Fast forward nearly 18 years, Heritage Audio has upped the game with their i73 Pro interface lineup—a sound interface with built-in 1073-style preamps. Let’s dive in and see if this interface can truly deliver the epic Neve sound we’ve all come to love.

A Look at the Heritage Audio i73 Pro Lineup

Heritage Audio’s i73 Pro series brings the iconic 1073 preamp sound straight to your desktop. These interfaces pack in the character and warmth of a high-end analog preamp but in a more compact, affordable, and versatile format. Here’s a quick overview of the three available models:

Pro 1 – A single preamp unit priced at $649 USD. Perfect for solo setups or smaller studios wanting to explore the 1073-style sound without breaking the bank.
Pro 2 – Features two 1073-style preamps for $999 USD, ideal for those who need more flexibility.
Pro Edge – The ultimate version at $1449 USD, which includes two preamps, additional I/O options, and 8-channel ADAT connectivity. This is the one I tested and it’s geared for larger, more demanding setups.

When you compare these prices to standalone analog 1073-style preamps like my Vintech 473 (which cost over $3,000 back in 2006), it’s clear Heritage Audio has created something truly impressive for the price.

The Sound: Comparing Preamp Performance

To test the i73 Pro’s sound, I made comparisons with both my AXR4 clean preamp and my trusty Vintech 473. Here’s what I found:

Against the AXR4 Clean Preamp: The AXR4 delivers a neutral, uncolored sound with a balanced frequency response. The i73 Pro, while subtle, adds more low-end warmth and a fuller, richer character.
Against the Vintech 473: The i73 Pro holds its ground. The Vintech might have a slightly darker tone, but the i73 Pro brings a touch more mid-range presence while retaining the full-bodied, warm sound we associate with 1073 preamps.

In both cases, the differences were nuanced but significant enough for discerning ears. Heritage Audio has truly nailed the 1073-style preamp experience.

Hands-On with the Heritage Audio i73 Pro

Design and Build

The i73 Pro is built like a tank. Its retro-inspired design includes two instrument inputs, two headphone outputs, and dual encoders for precise control. You’ve got input and output gain knobs—a feature that lets you shape your sound, from clean tones to harmonically rich saturation. The classic red knobs and VU meters add a nice vintage vibe.

Front and Back Panel Features

Front Panel: Includes buttons for phantom power, a pad, phase reverse, mono, and mute/dim functions. The standout design elements are the visible Class A transformers, which add character but also account for the interface’s slightly larger size.
Back Panel: Offers a USB-C connector, MIDI in/out, ADAT I/O (on the Pro Edge), and four output options for monitors and other needs. The Pro Edge’s extra I/O is a game-changer for more complex setups.

Low-Latency DSP Mixer

One of the highlights is the low-latency monitoring mixer with DSP effects. You get access to Heritage Audio’s plugins, including the Brit Strip channel strip, tape machine, guitar/bass amps, and the Successor compressor. These plugins work seamlessly, allowing you to monitor with effects while recording without any noticeable latency.

Unique Recording Features

The i73 Pro offers dual-input channels: dry and wet. This means you can simultaneously record a compressed (wet) signal and a clean (dry) signal. It’s a fantastic safety net and adds flexibility for post-production. Plus, send channels let you monitor with reverb or delay effects without printing them to the recording.

Is the i73 Pro Worth It?

If you’ve been eyeing a Neve-style preamp but don’t want to invest in bulky, expensive hardware, the i73 Pro is a stellar alternative. It’s versatile, sounds phenomenal, and packs in features you won’t find in traditional preamps. Whether you’re an aspiring producer or a seasoned studio pro, this interface delivers the warmth and character of the classic 1073 preamp in a modern, convenient package.

So, what do you think? Could the i73 Pro be your next studio upgrade? If rich, warm, and harmonically complex sound is what you’re after, this might just be the interface you’ve been waiting for.