1960's RCA discrete transistor 4 channel preamp rack

FOR SALE: a late 1960’s RCA rack with discrete transistor BA-31B and BA-33B preamps mounted in original trays and wired for power and XLR in/out. All test great for response and noise, and have that early ’70’s meaty discrete transistor with (UTC) transformers sound, Neve territory thickness, classic American ’60’s smoothness, much fatter than API. Great for rock records, I have these on drums a lot. All steel construction, means they are, by nature, heavy metal. All four use a 2N404 germanium driver transistor. This is a one stop shop for the best RCA discrete solid state! All new caps, front end transistors upgraded to quietest official version, output power transistors in the BA-33’s pulled and cleaned with new thermal grease put in place. I had five BA-33B’s side by side during restoration for comparison and they all matched up. The BA-31B’s have had the gain reworked to be continuously variable from 30-56dB versus the standard 40/46dB fixed gain - you won’t find that from any other source. The 33’s are set for 61dB max (continuously variable), with the input transformer being connected for mic use. They can be strapped for higher gain of 76dB if needed.

48V? I advise an outboard supply as needed, same with 20dB input pads, I use inline barrels when needed with most vintage pre’s.

Scared of vintage?  I've been running a set of (8) BA-31B's with zero problems since I rebuilt them in 2001.  

$2495 plus shipping and insurance. 37 lbs before packing, probably 45 lbs boxed.


To quote tasteliketape who has one of my BA-33B restorations: