Often Imitated, Never Equalled.

As one of the foremost pioneers in recording technology, the sound of Mr. Rupert Neve’s designs have added their signature to countless records in almost every conceivable genre. The artistry and craftsmanship of these designs is such that after 40 years, these modules are still highly sought after for their sonic prowess. While many have tried to emulate the ebullient, larger-than-life tone of Mr. Neve’s work, none have captured the compelling experience of the original.

To face the challenges of the modern studio landscape, Rupert and a small team of engineers in Wimberley, Texas have conceived a new range of equipment that provides the performance and versatility required in the 21st-century studio, while adhering to the principles that made his classic designs timeless.

From the 500 Series up to the 5088 High Voltage Mixer, every Rupert Neve Designs product is assured to bring joy to your music-making process for many years to come.

5088 HIGH VOLTAGE & DISCRETE MIXER

When 90 Volts course through discrete op-amp cards, custom transformers & meticulously crafted, Class A circuitry designed by the most trusted name in audio, the difference is immediately apparent.

The 5088 has been designed with audio quality as the utmost priority. Unnecessary bells and whistles have been removed so that single-sided, high voltage, discrete op-amp cards can replace integrated circuits throughout the mixer. These amplifiers provide 10dB more dynamic range than any previous console design from Mr. Rupert Neve, and excel at the most important performance test of all: the listening test.

Unquestionable reliability is another cornerstone of the 5088 design. The 5088 has been engineered to last for decades, and with its revolutionary high voltage, discrete topologies, its sonic capabilities will never be outclassed. If you’re hoping to take your studio to the next level, take a closer look at the 5088.

“The real power of the 5088 lies hidden within the discrete, single-sided circuit topology and transformer-coupled inputs and outputs that produce 10 dB greater Dynamic Range than any of my previous designs. The Dynamic Range is actually extended downwards to encompass the extremely small, often out of band signals, usually ignored, that go to complete our listening perspective, making sounds warmer, sweeter and fuller.” -Rupert Neve

MADE TO ORDER, DESIGNED TO ADAPT

In an era of ubiquitous DAWs, plugins and digital consoles, many engineers report that this “state of the art” equipment - which touts impressive-looking specifications and “enhanced” workflow - has removed the rich, expressive quality found on their older recordings, and often requires significantly more “tweak” time to make a mix gel. Additionally, many of these engineers are disappointed when their expensive digital tool becomes obsolete far too quickly. The 5088 is philosophically opposed to this one-size-fits-all approach.

Each console is built to spec for each engineer, and can evolve as the needs in the studio shift with new technologies. Aside from its audible prowess and reliability, much of the 5088’s staying power is due to this adaptability. Because the 5088 is completely modular, channel strips and processing modules like EQ, microphone preamplification and dynamics can be added or removed to meet constantly changing demands, which eliminates the massive redundancies of consoles from yesteryear. Engineers can now specify exactly what their studio needs without be forced into the purchase of extraneous modules.

To further customize appearance 5088’s may be configured in either standard or Shelford Blue finishes.

5051: INDUCTOR EQ / COMPRESSOR

The 5051 combines the very best of Rupert’s Classic EQ designs with the power and flexibility of Rupert’s modern Portico II compressor. With legendary sound quality and a versatile feature set, the 5051 is the ultimate processing module for the 5088 or any analogue mix system.

Features

• Inductor LF band based on Rupert’s 1064 with added peak mode
• Inductor MF band based on Rupert’s 1073
• Inductor / Capacitor hybrid HF band with peak mode
• Versatile VCA compressor-limiter with FF / FB, & RMS / Peak
• Selectable line inputs for pre and post “Tape” path normalling
• Independent HPF with selectable frequencies

5052: MIC PRE / INDUCTOR EQ

The Shelford 5052 echoes the simple and definitive 1073 feature set with a vertically-oriented mic pre, high pass filter, and 3-band inductor EQ, while also incorporating modern capabilities like variable Silk / Texture to finely hone the harmonic content and tonality of the output. The 5052 is a class-A powerhouse for tracking and mixing based around Rupert’s revered transformer and inductor designs.

Features

• Dual I/O paths for simultaneous Pre and Post “Tape” operation
• Class-A, Discrete Mic Pre with 72dB gain, 48V & Polarity Reverse
• Variable Texture with Silk Red / Blue (up to 4-5% THD)
• Inductor LF Band based on Rupert’s 1064 with added peak mode
• Inductor MF Band based on Rupert’s 1073
• Inductor / Capacitor Hybrid HF band with peak mode
• Variable High Pass Filter from 20-250Hz

The Shelford Series modules were designed to bring Rupert’s vintage character and features to modern mix systems. Aside from being the highvoltage preamplifier and processing complements to the 5088 console, the 5051 and 5052 modules may also be fitted into our 2-way wood racks, and our 9-way, vertical metal rack, which fits within a standard 6U rack.

The modules are powered by +/- 24V on 4-pin connectors from our 5-way brick supply, or our 25-way 2U rack-mount supply.

CONFIGURATIONS

The architecture of the 5088 is scalable such that you can add mono or stereo channels to the frame in 16 channel increments up to 96 channels, and down to as small as 8 Channels. For processing and preamplification, a penthouse section can be added, which can be outfitted with any of the Shelford or half-rack Portico Series modules. The VU Meterbridge can be added to frames with or without the penthouse.

Master Only

In this configuration, the 5088 has no preamplification or effects. Outboard modules connected through a patchbay are used to feed the recording device and process the audio in the mix path.

Master + Penthouse (hybrid in-line)

In this configuration Shelford / Portico modules used as mic inputs drive the recording device directly. The recording device is normalled to the 5088 channel strip modules which feed the stereo, aux and group busses.

Master + Penthouse (Split)

In this configuration, one side of the 5088 is used with 5015, 5032, or 5052 preamplifier modules routed to corresponding 5088 channel inputs, which in turn feed the recording device through direct outputs. The recording device is normalled to processing modules and channels in the “mix” path on the other half of the console.

SwiftMix: DAW-based Motorized Fader Automation System for Mr. Rupert Neve’s 5088

Built around state-of-the-art motorized faders and DAW control over ethernet, SwiftMix combines the accuracy and convenience of digital automation with the unrivaled analogue sound of the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 Console.

Seamless Digital Integration Worthy of the 5088

With SwiftMix, engineers can now enjoy the speed and recall abilities of their DAW with seamless integration in the 5088 frame. For maximum compatibility, SwiftMix communicates via a 9 bit HUI over ethernet protocol. SwiftMix’s implementation provides precise fader mapped calibration to .2mm on the fader track, which allows the analogue fader to match levels previously set in the DAW. This attention to detail is essential for recalling mixes created in the DAW. System setup can be accomplished in moments by connecting a single ethernet cable to the DAW host computer and then adding SwiftMix as a HUI Controller in the DAW.

Featuring a VCA-less motorized fader design, DAW-based communication, and instant, precise control, with SwiftMix there is finally an automation system worthy of the 5088 Console. For a quote on your very own 5088 system, please email [email protected]

MC-5 Master Controller

The MC5 Master Control module brings advanced transport, editing, and grouping functionality ]to the engineer’s fingertips. By providing seamless control from the mix position, MC5 allows for easy auditioning, decisive editing, and quick recall. The Master Control module is an optional addition to SwiftMix systems and requires at least one bank of 8 SwiftMix faders to operate.

Connections

• Channel Strip Modules (1 per Channel): 2 x XLR-F (Line Inputs), 1 x XLR-M (Direct Output), 1 x TRS (Optional Buss Input from Portico Modules)
• Group Channel Modules (4 total): 3 x TRS, 2 x XLR-M
• Master Monitor (1 Total): 6 x XLR-F, 9 x XLR M, 5 x TRS

Power Consumption

• 16 channel master: 825 watts
• 16 Channel Expander: 575 watts
• Portico Modules: about 10 watts each

Product specs

FAQs

What are the main features of the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console?

The Rupert Neve Designs 5088 is a discrete analog recording console known for its Class A circuitry, custom transformers, and modular design. It offers exceptional audio quality and flexibility, making it ideal for professional studio environments.

Is the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 suitable for a home studio?

While the 5088 offers exceptional sound quality, its professional-grade features and size are best suited for commercial studios. Home studios may require a more compact and budget-friendly option.

Can the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 be customized for specific studio needs?

Yes, the 5088 is designed to be highly modular, allowing users to customize it with various input modules and other components to tailor it to specific recording and mixing requirements.

What type of audio quality can I expect from the Rupert Neve Designs 5088?

The 5088 is renowned for its pristine audio quality, offering a warm, transparent sound with excellent headroom and low noise, thanks to its Class A circuitry and custom transformers.

Does the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 require any special maintenance?

Like all high-end analog equipment, the 5088 may require periodic maintenance to ensure optimal performance, including checking connections and cleaning components to prevent dust buildup.