PreAmps: Vintech X73 vs. Avalon 737

[TexasT]

I keep hearing conflicting reports.

What is the consensus?

Vintech X73? vs. Avalon 737?

No one has been able to describe the difference in sound quality between these 2 preamps. Can you?
If so thanks!

[michaelhoddy]

They're completely different designs using completely different topologies, so I don't think that there's much of a direct comparison to be had. The Vintech X73 is a reproduction of the FET-based, Class A Neve 1073 preamp/EQ module. The 737 is a tube-based preamp/compressor that also has a non-tube EQ circuit.

Both sound great, but they're different. The Vintech sounds pretty much like a 1073, except with new components and without the Neve name. The Avalon's (I love the 737, by the way) strength is the transparency of the mic stage and compressor, and having the EQ doesn't hurt either. It's a warm and articulate sound, but it's a different character than that of the Neve/Vintech.

Were I to use adjectives, I would describe the Avalon as smooth and articulate, and the Neve/Vintech as punchy and aggressive, but warm and not harsh.

What source material are you using it for? Do you need dynamics processing? What is your flavor of preference in EQ sounds?

For general use, I'd prefer the Avalon, for it's flexibility. I really think that this is a unit that you can find a million uses for, and have it sound pretty good with all of them. But if it's the warmth and punch of Neve EQ/preamp that you want, with all its idiosyncracies, get the Vintech. It sounds great in the apps where you'd want those characteristics. If you want an uncolored sound, look at Grace Designs or Great River or someone like them.

The only thing that you can do that will adequately give you the information you seek is to use each of them in the applications you're considering, shoot 'em out, and make your choice.