{"product_id":"rupert-neve-5088-16-channel-analog-mixing-console-shelford","title":"Rupert Neve Designs 5088 16-Channel Analog Mixing Console Base Configuration - Shelford Finish","description":"\u003cp\u003eAt its core, the \u003cstrong\u003eRupert Neve Designs 5088\u003c\/strong\u003e is an expandable 16 channel line mixer that provides 8 group busses, 8 auxiliary sends, 4 stereo effects returns and a stereo output buss. That basic functionality of input and output routing, meters and faders provides the foundation upon which you can build a console to satisfy your own particular requirements; adding microphone preamplifiers, equalization and dynamics processing – or even more input channels – to suit your facility's needs. And as your studio grows, your 5088 can grow with it. Add stereo input modules, automation, more mic preamps or processing, a producer panel or other custom metalwork…the sky's the limit.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_0\"\u003eMAIN FRAMES AND EXPANDERS\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 5088 is available with channel counts in multiples of 16 (e.g. 16, 32, 48, and beyond) as well as in a smaller 8 channel frame. The additional 16 channel expander chassis share the same form factor and lock into the sides of the master 5088 frame. Multiple expansion chassis may be added depending on the required channel count. Internal, group, solo, aux and master busses are linked through ribbon cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_1\"\u003eINPUT MODULES\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMONO INPUT CHANNELS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond its exceptional sound quality, the 5088 channel strip is designed to effectively handle multiple normalled sources, creating master, group and aux mixes with great efficiency. With 8 auxes, 8 \"Groups\", \"Solo\", \"Mute\", \"Send Follows Pan\", \"Aux to Group\", a transformer-coupled direct out and optional motorized fader automation on each channel, even the most complex mixes are within reach. Starting in 2025, labels previously marked as TAPE, LINE, and BUSS inputs now read TAPE, LINE, and LINE 2. Functionality has not changed and is consistent with all previous 541 Mono Input Channel modules.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEREO INPUT CHANNELS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn lieu of mono input channels with selectable Line 1\/Line 2 Inputs, Stereo Input Channels can be fitted to increase the channel count without having to add an expansion chassis. The Stereo Module has all of the group sends, six auxes, individual trims and pans for each channel, plus direct outs for both the Left and Right channels, and a powerful stereo width control. This is an ideal upgrade for smaller consoles that will often be handling stereo stems from the DAW. As of 2025, the Stereo Input Channel Module now includes direct outs for both the Left and Right channels. The model number has also been updated from 551 to 552.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_2\"\u003eGROUP MODULES\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith 4 pairs of FX returns and aux master controls, alongside high-quality 100mm faders, direct outs and transformer-coupled inserts for each of the 8 mix groups, the group master section provides the medium to control 4 stereo stem mixes while tying together an entire array of channel strips. If necessary, the insert returns and stereo FX returns can be used as an additional 16 inputs for summing.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_3\"\u003eMONITOR MASTER\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe monitor master section has 6 source selections, 3 transformer-coupled speaker outputs, talkback, oscillator controls, 2 large VU meters, stereo inserts, stereo level, and control room master level: the iconic big red knob. As with all the other modules, anodized aluminum knobs provide the solid feel and response required for precise adjustments.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_4\"\u003eTHE PENTHOUSE\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe standard 16-channel master section penthouse has 25 slots for vertical modules: one above each channel, plus 9 above the group\/master sections. Depending on a studio's needs, any combination of Shelford 5053 Transformer Gain Mic Pre + Inductor EQ, Shelford 5052 Mic Pre + Inductor EQ, 5051 Inductor EQ + Compressor, or 5022 Dual Mic Preamp modules can be added to the penthouse. For example, a studio exclusively doing mix work could configure a penthouse with only EQ\/compressors and no mic preamps at all; or a small production room could short-load a console with preamps above the first 8 channels, and compressors above each of the groups. This approach allows you to avoid the large costs and redundancies found in nearly every other console.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eShelford 5053 Transformer Gain Mic Pre\/EQ: Building upon the massive success of both the 5052 and the Shelford Channel, the Shelford 5053 Penthouse module provides 5088 clients with a sonic imprint that more closely resembles Rupert Neve's iconic, vintage consoles. With an additional custom Rupert Neve Designs transformer – which specifically provides the first 15dB of mic pre gain – the 5053's input section is virtually identical to the wildly popular Shelford Channel, allowing the 5088 to achieve new levels of rich, vintage-style coloration.\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eShelford 5052 Mic Pre\/EQ: The Shelford 5052 echoes the simple and definitive 1073 feature set with a mic preamp, high pass filter, and 3-band inductor EQ, plus modern capabilities like the variable Silk \/ Texture control and simultaneous pre \/ post \"tape\" operation. Utilizing Class A, discrete, ±24V topologies with custom-wound transformers and inductors, Rupert Neve designed the 5052 as a channel strip that captures the soul of his classic designs – without the previous compromises.\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5022 Dual Mic Pre: The 5022 was designed to maximize the amount of inputs available in one 5088 Penthouse Module by providing two class-A, electronically balanced mic preamps, 2 variable high pass filters, and a variable Silk \/ Texture control for each input channel.\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eShelford 5051 EQ\/Compressor: The 5051 combines a three-band Inductor EQ based on Rupert's vintage designs with the power \u0026amp; flexibility of the Portico II Compressor. With a fully-discrete class-A signal path and custom audio transformers and inductors, the 5051 delivers all the performance and musicality expected from a Rupert Neve design.\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_5\"\u003eTHE METERBRIDGE\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs an option, any 5088 configuration may be outfitted with a VU meterbridge at an additional cost. The meterbridge features finely calibrated and extremely precise meters for all input and group channels, and can be secured either directly on top of a standard 5088 frame, or to the top of a penthouse rack.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_6\"\u003eSWIFTMIX 2.0 AUTOMATION\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eSwiftMix 2.0 is the latest version of RND's moving fader automation system. This system includes motorized, touch-sensitive and high resolution faders in both mono or stereo configurations, support for up to 64 channels of automation, and updated software, complete with a control plugin that allows all console automation data to be stored within each DAW session.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e100mm motorized touch-sensitive faders control the 5088's superb all-analog signal path (no VCAs), with mono and stereo faders available\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eExpanded channel count with up to 64 automated console channels currently supported\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eFull 10-bit resolution for tracking subtle automation moves with precision\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eAll automation data contained in the DAW session with no outdated external computer to manage\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eSimple setup with a single USB cable and the all-in-one installer for both the Injektor standalone control app and Mothership control plug-in\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003eMC5 Master Control Module discontinued\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_0\"\u003eSTUDIOS USING THE RND 5088\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/blog\/rupert-neve-5088-rca-studio-b\"\u003eNashville’s Historic RCA Studio B\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe Rupert Neve Designs 5088 looks and feels much like a vintage console, but with the benefits of being compatible in a modern studio world. It is super reliable and built like a tank, and more importantly, it is very sonically pleasing, making it an easy choice.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Johnny Gentile\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/blog\/joey-raia-hudson-electric-co\"\u003eJoey Raia's Hudson Electric Co.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really like the way the mix bus and the transformers sound. I like that you can push a lot of bass with it and really drive the console as hard as you want. It’s easy to move faders without having to worry about meters. You just have to listen and react to what you hear. It helps put me in that creative realm and gives me the vibe that I need.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Joey Raia\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/blog\/chris-mcclarney-rnd-avid\"\u003eChris McClarney's Fun Time Studios\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eThe 5088… It's gorgeous, and it's making me happy. It's got the Silk button on every channel, which I just turn all the way up!\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Chris McClarney\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/blog\/studio-spotlight-greenwood-school-of-music-oklahoma-state-university\"\u003eGreenwood School Of Music\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eI really think that the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 is a superior piece of gear. One thing I like about it is that it's built to last. I also really like the workflow that it provides. I think that the RND 5088 is very intuitive, and it does what I needed it to do.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Dr. Mark E. Perry\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003ch3 id=\"toc_1\"\u003eRUPERT NEVE DESIGN 5088 CONSOLE FAQ\u003c\/h3\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. What is the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 (RND 5088)?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eAn all-analog, large-format mixing and tracking console designed by Rupert Neve, the engineer behind the original Neve consoles. It pairs a fully analog signal path with optional SwiftMix automation, and is built to order so you can configure it to your room and workflow.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. How many channels does the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe RND 5088 is offered in 8-, 16-, and 32-channel frame sizes, with options for the penthouse\/master section and expansion.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Which input modules can I put in it, and how do they affect the sound?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe RND 5088 accepts a choice of input\/preamp modules, letting you voice the console from modern and clean to classic-Neve character.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Which input modules can I put in it, and how do they affect the sound?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console accepts a choice of input\/preamp modules, letting you voice the console from modern and clean to classic-Neve character.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e541 Input Channel\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e552 Stereo Input Channel\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5051 EQ\/Compressor\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5052 Mic Pre\/EQ\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5053 Transformer-Gain Mic Pre + Inductor EQ\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003cli\u003e5022 Dual Mic Pre\u003c\/li\u003e\r\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Can I use the RND 5088 console for tracking only, or split it from my mix setup?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes. Many owners run the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 front end for tracking and keep their existing summing\/automation, or split the producer\/master section as a sidecar. The modular design supports hybrid analog\/DAW workflows.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Can I add automation to the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes! The optional SwiftMix automaton system for the RND 5088 provides fader automation while keeping the analog signal path.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. How does the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 compare to other consoles?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe RND 5088 delivers the genuine Rupert Neve transformer-coupled sound with modern reliability and recall; a feat that no other console can claim. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/contact\"\u003eContact a Vintage King Audio Consultant\u003c\/a\u003e today for a detailed breakdown of how the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console compares to other popular consoles.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Is the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 built to order? What’s the lead time?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes, each Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console is built to order. There is no standard configuration, and buyers can choose from a variety of modular options to build a console that works best for their specific workflow. Because each console is custom-built, lead times may vary. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/contact\"\u003eContact a Vintage King Audio Consultant\u003c\/a\u003e today for more information.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. How does the RND 5088 ship and install?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Rupert Neve Designs 5088 console is shipped in a crate via freight and is fully insured. This item does not qualify for \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/faq#free-shipping\"\u003efree shipping\u003c\/a\u003e, as it is over 150 lbs in shipping weight. Shipping expenses are calculated during the quote stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. What warranty and support come with it?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"vintageking.com\/media\/cms\/forms\/5088_manual.pdf\"\u003eRupert Neve Designs warrants\u003c\/a\u003e this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of three (3) years from date of purchase, and agrees to remedy any defect identified within such three year period by, at the brand’s option, repairing or replacing the product.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eVintage King’s \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/faq#world-class-warranty\"\u003efree extended\u003c\/a\u003e warranty covers the same inclusions\/exclusions for an additional year.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eUsed and demo console warranties vary by item.\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ. Can I finance the RND 5088?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYes, Vintage King offers many financing options, including the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/creditcard\"\u003eVintage King Credit Card\u003c\/a\u003e; however, the Rupert Neve 5088 console fits best into the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/lease\"\u003eVK Leasing Program\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rupert Neve Designs","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44450751938663,"sku":"162233","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0658\/8848\/5479\/files\/rupert-neve-designs-5088-16-channel_162232_1_aa2723b9-6420-4875-9838-71f0e6e2bd13.jpg?v=1787094379","url":"https:\/\/vintageking.com\/products\/rupert-neve-5088-16-channel-analog-mixing-console-shelford","provider":"Vintage King","version":"1.0","type":"link"}