Rupert Neve 5088 16-Channel Analog Mixing Console with Automation - Shelford

The Rupert Neve Designs 5088 Analog Mixing Console is the culmination of Rupert Neve’s vast analog circuitry knowledge, and the only console built today with the same dedication to sound quality found in his most legendary vintage designs. As his final word in fully discrete mixing design, the 5088 incorporates and improves upon many of the same analog concepts that made his original 80 series consoles so revered: single-sided, fully discrete amplification, bespoke audio transformers on every single input and output, bulletproof build quality, and unparalleled headroom and dynamic range. If you value sound quality above all else, the 5088 is the only choice!

Completely modular, expandable design

The 5088 is a fundamentally different console philosophy, very carefully thought-out so that you don’t have to waste money paying for unnecessary functionality. Instead of adding bells and whistles, Rupert and his team focused on designing the most efficient, direct, and sweetest-sounding analog audio paths through a console that integrates seamlessly with any outboard gear in the world.

Custom high voltage, discrete op-amp cards

The all-new, fully discrete analog architecture in the 5088 represents a culmination of Rupert’s vast analog circuitry knowledge. Custom high voltage and discrete op-amp cards have been designed specifically for the 5088 that eliminate crossover distortion entirely; provide extended headroom, dynamic range, and frequency response; and offer exceptionally low noise and distortion.

Bespoke transformers on all inputs & outputs

Rupert Neve was always a staunch advocate of transformer-based designs, and custom-built transformers are implemented on every single input and output of the 5088. These electrically isolate the console with a true floating ground while also imparting the sweet sound quality of Rupert’s most sought-after classic designs.

"The real power of the 5088 lies hidden within these transformer-coupled inputs and outputs and discrete, single-sided circuit topologies 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, apparently affecting the low and mid frequencies.

"The significance of this enormous dynamic range and the frequency response that extends comfortably beyond 100 kHz lies in the ability of the 5088 to source, retain and mix the microscopically tiny signals that are essential to retention and enhancement of the full soundscape.

"The first time I actually heard music played through a 5088, I just…relaxed. A wave of satisfaction swept over me – I didn't have to measure, I just listened and thought, ‘Boy, I think we've actually achieved it.’ There is something about the 5088 which I have not been able to get from any other piece of equipment."

– RUPERT NEVE

INPUT MODULES

MONO INPUT CHANNELS

Beyond 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.

STEREO INPUT CHANNELS

In 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, and a powerful stereo width control.

This is an ideal upgrade for smaller consoles that will often be handling stereo stems from the DAW.

GROUP MODULES

With 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.

THE METERBRIDGE

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.

SWIFTMIX AUTOMATION

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

Each SwiftMix fader channel features five illuminating tact switches and a 100mm motorized fader. The switches control DAW channel selection, DAW solo, DAW mute, channel record enable and automation mode. The automation mode switch toggles the selection between off, read, touch, latch and write, which are individually indicated with LEDs on the fader panel. A carbon impregnated fader cap provides immediate touch responsiveness, and the 100mm motorized fader is extremely accurate to 1/5mm for writing, adjusting and following of automation commands.

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.

For maximum compatibility, SwiftMix communicates via a 9 bit HUI over ethernet protocol. SwiftMix’s implementation provides precise fader-mapped calibration, which allows the motorized analog fader to match levels previously set in the DAW. This attention to detail is essential for flawlessly recalling mixes created in the box or at another location. 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. No drivers are required for PC or Mac, and channels are automatically assigned and matched to channels in the DAW. SwiftMix is primarily optimized for use in AVID Protools and Apple Logic, but it will work with most DAWs supporting HUI control surfaces.

CONFIGURATION INCLUDES:

• 1 5088 16-Channel Master Shelford
• 1 16-Channel Swiftmix System
• 1 Swiftmix Master Controller
• 1 Penthouse, 25 Position Main
• 1 Meterbridge, Main, 24-Channel VU Shelford QTY 1
• 16 5052 Shelford Mic Pre/Inductor EQ
• 1 5051/5052 Shelford Power Supply
• 9 Penthouse Blank Panel Shelford
• 1 Crate, Medium 16-Channel