Neve 1073 (Vintech73) or Avalon VT737SP

Has anyone used both of these (preferrably extensively)? I'd jump on the Vintech based on price and reputation alone, but the thing that keeps the Avalon on my mind is that fact that it has a compressor too. Is the compressor enough reason to get the Avalon over the Vintech (for pre+EQ), or is the sound quality on the Vintech superior to the point where I should ignore the compressor factor?

Just wanna add that a homie of mine who uses both says that the Avalon has more a "pretty" sound. I was under the impression that tube technology added more color and thickness vs. solid state? The reason I am confused (besides the compressor issue) is that I want a thick, warm, colorful sound...but at the same time I want a clear commercial sound as well. What yall think?

Also, anyone know another good forum to be asking this question?

They just not the same channel strips.
As you notice it 737 got comp 1073 doesn't, 737 has Class A Comp & Tube pré-amp. The Neve one's is a Pure ClassA Pré-amp & EQ.
I think the Avalon sound a little too "clear" (specialy for vocals, i.e.Céline Dion use it), but the tube sound real "warm" that's good when come to basses. By the way it's a STRONG machine that deliver a very musical signal.
1073/1084 are TOP END GEAR! Mr Rupert Neve neva done better job! Neither on his own other channel strip product! Graphics are just a little hard to see (that make you use your ears more!) but sound's WHOOA!!!
Man, this préamp is Legend! The sound is WAY different than with the AValon, Price too!!!
But,I wouldn't compare them, you could have a colored signal with the tube but ALSO with the NEVE, listen to some Timbo or Dre work they both process vocals thru it (1073 Timbo should say Missy; 1084 Dre).

I've sold my 737 for an UA 6176, I stick to my AvalonM5 pré (for basses), looking to cop a second 1073 (they re-issue them but price's still high!)
I'll suggest to beggin with the 737, but if you can afford it, go straight to the Neve's one. Keep your money, and don't be afraid by the cost, you're investing on your career!



PEACE! FRESH FROM THE CARIBBEAN

Thanks Kilowax that was helpful. I will be using the unit for more than just vocals. I will want to run almost everything through it, so I guess I would want one that sounds generally good for everything from bass to vox.

How is your 1076? What do you use that for the most? Is there one particular pre that you use for more instruments than others? Is there one that you feel sounds good with most things in general? I mean, I do plan on buying multiple pres down the road, but I will be with only one for a while.

First, by buying several prés, you're on the good way! Each brand had his own sound. I generally will process singers vocals thru the 6176 pré cuz the Tube will maintain a good signal ( a singer have different range of power when voicing), while I'll process Emcee or DeeJay thru the Neve cuz of the Solid State. Basses & guitar I use the M5pré + 6176COMP, the M5 is a beast and the 6176's comp is basically the UREI/UA 1076LN.
1073 is just spécial to me, it's my babe! I'll eq with it, pretty much everything!! I ALWAYS record the ONE MAIN artist I work with, with it. MY SECRET WEAPON for vocal.
Also I will combine 6176pré & 1073eq, for electro-acoustics/ acoustics instruments.

Peace.

Yo you been a big help Kilo. Read your other posts too you are a good one to go to for gear advice.

Thanks Frankly, I like to share, when possible!


Peace.

Yo Frankly! We talk bout pré, processing signal to record...OK!
But can you mix at home? Are you on a DAW (Mac or PC), a Digital Recorder? Are you using softwares?
Let me know, I'll share some infos on some weeeckeeeddd products I use now for mixing session.

Take care.

Yeah the pre will be used to record/track here in the home lab on PT. Music will be mixed/mastered properly at the proper studios.

deleted.

Penfold, Check your main post on that question for updates.

Its good to keep things contained

sorry mate i just realised that this post was kinda old and about compressers and stuff.