With the release of the 1073 mic preamp/EQ in 1970, and the 1081
released in 1973, Neve’s classic circuitry has consolidated their
position in the professional audio industry. Since then, a desire for
‘cleaner’ recordings using modern circuitry has resulted in classic
circuitry becoming an option – but not the only option.
The development of technology and the digital world cannot be ignored.
With these two mindsets clear, the Custom Series 75 has achieved a world first, the combination of classic circuitry and modern circuitry in one console.
The classic Neve circuitry has been painstakingly re-created, keeping
faithful to the original whilst taking advantage of modern assembly
methods. The original circuits have only been changed where justified by
an improvement in reliability or performance. Rather than running the
length of the console, the voltage summing busses are a mere 150mm long
and they are now balanced, resulting in lower noise and less crosstalk.
Other “charming quirks” of the original circuits such as the level onto
busses varying as more busses are assigned from a channel, have been
overcome. Improved BA338 amplifying stages and legendary BA283 output
stages combined with classic Neve LO1166 output transformers, sound
warm, defined and punchy.
Stereo busses are implemented in both classic (voltage summing) and
modern (current summing) technology and the feed to these can be
selected on a per-channel basis. The 2 busses are combined at the master
fader then passed via (patchable) 2254 compressors and an insert, to
the stereo outputs. There are both modern (transformerless) and classic
(transformer) outputs, providing maximum flexibility of sonic “flavour”.
Naturally the AFL busses are also replicated for correct Solo
monitoring. The eight Group outputs use classic circuitry, with the
added bonus of Stem outputs, inserts and 8 dedicated faders to feed
groups or playback to the stereo busses. A 32 channel console can mix a
total of 80 inputs to stereo.
The 2081 inline channel module features a blend of the best features of
Neve’s legendary 1073 and 1081 modules. The mic preamp and 4 band EQ is
straight from the 1081, while the output amp is based on the 1970′s
BA283, single ended, class A circuitry with a gapped core transformer,
as used in the 1073 and 2254. Five auxiliary sends, fader swap and a
choice of either classic or modern channel output circuitry are
provided.
Two 2254 compressors, four stereo reverb returns, eight recallable
scenes, monitoring of up to 12 sources simultaneously and comprehensive
7.1 monitoring are just some of the features found in the master
section.
Available in a 16, 24, 32, 40, 48, 56 or 64 module chassis, the Series
75 is flexible and able to suit a variety of studio applications from
broadcast to music and even film production.
Designed specifically for longevity, gold plated switches and connectors
have been used for all audio circuits, and all parts have been selected
on their projected availability many years from now. All capacitors in
the signal path are polypropylene film or Rubycon ZLH series
electrolytic, chosen for superb sonic performance and long life.
Ergonomic design allowing the engineer to reach any parameter on the
board from a seated position (up to 32 Channels) make this console a
workstation that is comfortable for long hours, flexible for countless
practical and creative applications, and unbeatable for sonic character
or transparency!
The Neve Custom Series 75 is a console that is here to stay.
Technical Specs
Switchable “retro” (transformer) or “modern” (transformerless) output
Voltage and current summing mix busses
All capacitors in the audio signal path are either:
o WIMA polypropylene film capacitors, or
o Rubycon ZLH electrolytic capacitors
Gold plated switchers and audio connectors
Two linkable mono 2254 compressors (option)
Four stereo reverb returns
Eight recallable console scenes
Up to twelve monitoring sources
True stereo to 7.1 monitoring
Original mic pre-amp from the Neve 1073
Four band EQ based on the 1073 circuitry & 1081 functionality
Five AUX sends (2 stereo & 3 mono)
Redesigned BA338 amplifying stages
BA283 output stages
Neve LO1166 output transformers
Main Features
One year labour and five (5) years parts guarantee