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RUPERT NEVE DESIGNS NEW STEREO INPUT AND INDUCTOR EQ/COMPRESSOR MODULE AES 2011

RUPERT NEVE DESIGNS NEW STEREO INPUT AND INDUCTOR EQ/COMPRESSOR MODULE

FROM GEAR SLUTZ

At this year’s AES Convention in New York City, Rupert Neve Designs is announcing the release of two new modules for its groundbreaking and multi-award-winning 5088 console: the 5051 Inductor EQ/Compressor module and the 5088 Stereo Module.

The 5051 combines a classic three-band EQ based on Rupert’s vintage designs with the power and flexibility of the Portico Series compressor. Utilizing a discrete, class A signal path and high performance input and output transformers, the 5051 delivers the performance and musicality expected from a Rupert Neve Design. The new Stereo Module for the 5088 uses the same high-voltage, transformer-coupled topology found throughout the 5088, and allows both twice the density and considerable cost savings when compared to mono modules. The Stereo Module is outfitted with a single Penny & Giles 100mm fader, individual left/right pans, individual trims, six auxes and a stereo width control. When Aux to Groups on Aux 5/6 is activated, the stereo channel signal can be routed with an independent mix level to any of the console’s eight groups.

The 5051 module’s EQ design certainly invokes sonic similarities with some of Rupert's classic EQs. The 5051 uses a custom tapped inductor with selected capacitors to form the mid-range equalizer band. The shelf curves are based on Rupert's vintage modules, using very similar frequency choices as well. Each EQ section also uses low feedback, class A, discrete topologies to prevent low level artifacts and harshness from detracting from the tonal shaping. The EQ, however, is a modern design with advantages offered by techniques that were not possible 35 years ago along with improvements in electronic components currently available, and should not be considered a clone. Let's just say it has heritage.
Both the High and Low Bands can be switched from Shelf to Peak curves and offer 15 dB of boost or cut. The High can be switched from 8 kHz to 16 kHz and the Low Band selected at 35 Hz, 60 Hz, 100 Hz or 220 Hz. The inductor based Mid Band offers six center frequencies: 200 Hz, 350 Hz, 700 Hz, 1.5 kHz, 3 kHz and 6 kHz. The Mid Band also has a High Peak switch to narrow the bandwidth or increase the Q of the filter. The 5051 includes an 18 dB/octave High Pass Filter with two corner frequencies on an illuminated button that toggles through OFF, 60 Hz, and 120 Hz, indicated by a blue or red LED respectively.

Additionally, the EQ can be switched Pre or Post the compressor. Normally the EQ precedes the compressor but the order can be selected so that the EQ follows after the Compressor. The 5051 also has two XLR balanced inputs that can be switched from the front panel. This allows the user, for example, to have a mic preamplifier and a line input from a DAW pre-patched and easily selectable.

The 5051 Compressor also features a discrete class A signal path proven in the Portico Series. The Threshold has a range of –30 dBu to +10 dBu. The Ratio can be set from 1.1:1 to 40:1. The Attack has a range of 5 mS to 75 mS and the Release allows from 100 mS to 2.5 S to be set. Final Gain can be set from –6 dB to +20 dB.

The Compressor allows the user to select either a modern Feed-Forward topology or the traditional Feed-Back style of compression. Each has advantages depending on the source and desired sound. A 250 Hz high pass filter can be switched into the compressor sidechain to reduce the chance that loud low frequency material inadvertently affects the gain reduction. A LINK switch and associated 1/4-inch phone jacks on the back panel allow two (or multiple) 5051s to be properly used for stereo where gain changes happen together. A pair of 1/4-inch phone jacks is also provided on the back for patching an equalizer into the sidechain for de-essing and finessing. The 5051 has two fast acting, accurate LED bargraph meters to indicate Gain Reduction and Output Level.

It should be pointed out that the 5051, at this time, is intended exclusively for the 5088 console. The 5051 uses a shared central power supply designed to feed up to 25 5051 modules. This both reduces heat buildup within the modules and reduces the costs associated with DC-DC converters in every module.

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Founded by Rupert and Evelyn Neve, Rupert Neve Designs is built on passion, experience and a desire to create products embodying the highest musical quality. In continuing his legacy as a pioneer in audio circuit design, Mr. Rupert Neve is currently focusing his talents on creating innovative solutions to the issues facing the modern recording engineer. For further information on Rupert Neve Designs please visit Rupert Neve Designs
Portico is a trademark of Rupert Neve Designs, Inc.
Company contact:
Rupert Neve Designs,
PO Box 1969,
Wimberley, TX 78676.
Tel: (512) 847-3013
Fax: (512) 847-8869
E-mail: info@rupertneve.com
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