Well since your Vintech X73i, is not an original Neve 1073, I think you should go with the Shure! You'll enjoy the sound and save a few bucks. It's sort of like asking who is better Luciano Pavarotti or, Plathido Domingo?

Who is better? George Bush or Dick Cheney? We know that answer.
Ms. Remy Ann David

Hint: neither

WAIT!

You forgot to ask whether you should get an LA-2? Or an 1176 compressors?!

Ms. Remy Ann David

Hint: both

Well, OK, I don't have an LA-2. But I do have 3 1176's, 2 LA-3's, 2 LA-4's.

First...and this is in no way a slight, its S H U R E....says so right on the box. S U R E means something entirely different. Since you already own the Shure mic, I'm wondering what source you're looking to improve. The KSM44 is a very very good mic and will cover a LOT of different sound sources without a bit of a problem. If you're looking for something for a vocal mic and think the Neumann is a good bet then try it out and see if it does what you need it to do.

Fortunately there are a lot of mics at this price point that really can do the work quite well. So if its a special something for vocals dont be afraid to look at other options as well. There are many. Use the search function and get some examples.

As for your preamp. This is one of my personal favorites for everything. It and the Shure should be more than adequate for anything.

Davedog! You sound like me! You said it should be "adequate". One of my favorite words to describe audio. Of course there is a little more to just making "Shure" the meters move.

Can I get you a drool cup for the spitboys?
Ms. Remy Ann David