Neve 1073 Equalizer – The Pinnacle of Preamps and EQs

In the world of audio engineering and music production, the Neve 1073 Equalizer stands as an iconic and timeless piece of equipment. Renowned for its warm, rich sound, it has earned a reputation as one of the best preamps and equalizers in the industry.

In this article, we’ll explore why the Neve 1073 is celebrated, discuss software alternatives, and dive into the NoiseAsh Need 73 as a Neve 1073 emulation. Plus, we’ll guide you on how to effectively use the Neve 1073 VST plugin in your mixing and mastering chain.

Why the Neve 1073 is the Best Preamp and EQ:

• Vintage Magic: The Neve 1073 was introduced in the early 1970s and has since become an iconic piece of vintage audio gear. Its classic, analog sound is adored for its musicality, adding a unique character to recordings.
• Warm and Colorful: The 1073 imparts a warm, colorful tone to audio signals, enhancing their richness and depth. It’s particularly well-suited for bringing out the best in vocals, acoustic instruments, and drums.
• Versatile EQ: The 1073’s EQ section provides three bands of equalization with fixed frequency points. Its simple yet effective design allows for gentle shaping or significant tonal adjustments, making it a versatile tool for sculpting sound.
• Legendary Build Quality: Neve is synonymous with exceptional build quality, and the 1073 is no exception. Its robust construction ensures reliability and longevity.
• Recording History: Countless legendary albums and artists have used the Neve 1073 in their recording chain, contributing to its iconic status.

Software Alternatives to the Neve 1073

While the Neve 1073 hardware is highly sought after, software emulations have made it accessible to a broader range of producers and engineers. Some notable alternatives include Waves Scheps 73, Universal Audio Neve 1073, and of course, the NoiseAsh Need 73, available in our store.

Is NoiseAsh Need 73 a Good Neve 1073 Emulation?

The NoiseAsh Need 73 is a compelling Neve 1073 emulation. It faithfully replicates the sonic character of the original hardware, providing warmth and color to your audio. Its user-friendly interface and affordability make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced professionals.

Using the Neve 1073 VST Plugin in Your Mixing and Mastering Chain:

1. Channel Strip: Insert the Neve 1073 plugin on the channel strip of the audio source you want to process. This can be a vocal track, instrument track, or even the master bus.
2. Gain Staging: Adjust the input gain to set the desired level without clipping. Be mindful of the VU meters and aim for optimal signal-to-noise ratio.
3. Equalization: Use the three-band EQ to shape the sound. The high and low bands are shelving EQs, while the mid-band is a bell EQ. Experiment with different frequency settings and boost/cut values to achieve the desired tonal balance.
4. Saturation: Engage the saturation option if available in your plugin. This emulates the harmonic distortion of the original hardware and can add warmth and character to your audio.
5. Output Gain: Adjust the output gain to ensure your processed signal matches the level of the original, maintaining consistency in your mix.
6. Automation: Consider automating EQ settings to dynamically shape the sound throughout the song.

You can add the plugin in your mixer chain on drums, bass, guitars and vocals with the following settings and listen to what this plugin is capable of:

In conclusion, the Neve 1073 Equalizer has rightfully earned its place as a legendary piece of audio equipment. While the hardware remains highly sought after, software emulations like the NoiseAsh Need 73 VST plugin bring its iconic sound within reach of all producers and engineers.

Whether you’re tracking, mixing, or mastering, the Neve 1073 plugin can add that magical touch of warmth and character to your audio, making it a valuable tool in your arsenal.