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The Mastering Lab ML-1 mic preamp - $2,595
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One of the most rare and esoteric mic preamps ever made. When I started building these in 2017, I used some parts left over from the original run purchased from one of the designers and developers of the product. I also used those parts as models to replicate ALL the parts necessary to build brand new ML-1 mic preamps. Everything in these units is brand new. I was able to obtain the data necessary to replicate the input transformer from the original manufacturer, which is a key part of capturing the sound of the original units. I worked very closely with the designer to ensure the preamps came out perfect. He provided invaluable info to make this project possible. We spoke and emailed almost daily. I also sent him completed units to check out and approve - which he did. I also sent one to Nashville for demos, which reached Gary Paczosa. Mr. Paczosa compared my unit to his originals and heard no difference.
I spent considerable time and expense chasing this dragon since 2016. I've been repairing and building tube preamps, microphones, EQ's, compressors and guitar amps for 30+ years in Austin, Texas. I'm a fastidious, perfectionist kind of guy. These units are built right, a fact I've very proud of. They sound identical to the originals (I have made many comparisons) and are built more cleanly.
So what do they sound like? Very clear and hi fi with loads of headroom, but not sterile at all. A term I've heard is "effortless". It's as if the very best of tube and solid state sounds were combined. THD is typically .009% at +24dBu with 1K test tone. These are not fuzzy tube mic preamps. The ML-1 excels on voices and stringed instruments, but sounds great on everything.
Original units are around 25 years old now. They require recapping, replacing the zener diodes in the B+ regulation, etc. You'll have none of those issues to worry about. BTW, I also beefed up the B+ regulation zeners (zener failure/explosion is a known issue with ML-1). The flat pack power transformers in the original units buzzed physically - it's noticeable if you record in the control room. I had custom toroidal transformers manufactured that match the voltage and current specs of the original flat pack transformers exactly. No more buzz, and better SNR specs too. The toroidal power transformer were also tested and approved by the original designer. All components are top drawer, no expense spared. The original chassis had a tendency to rust. I used metal that is coated and will not rust. Every build detail was scrutinized and improved if possible, without affecting the sound whatsoever. I've now sold several of these to very discerning happy customers.
Please send me any questions you may have. I want the buyer to be as excited about owning this mic preamp as I am.