Introduction
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 Main Mix 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
Custom Series 75 is a console that is here to stay.
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