Neve 1081 Classic
The Neve 1081 Classic is a legendary Class A/B, transformer based preamp and EQ. The 1081 provides remarkable sensitivity, fast and musical response to transients, plus inimitable Neve equalization featuring effective high- and low-pass filters designed to separate unwanted signal outside the passband. This gives users a flexible tool with which to shape new sounds and control any part of the audio spectrum. The curves and slopes have been carefully tailored to enable users to exercise maximum technical and artistic skill.
Over three decades, engineers have found the 1081 an indispensable tool for recording and mixing drums, bass and percussion. As with all Neve outboard gear, users are assured the highest quality signal acquisition, thanks to uncompromising Class AB circuitry, hand-wound Neve-designed transformers, and unrivalled attention to every last component and construction detail.
Designed in 1972, the 1081 was originally conceived as a combined mic/line preamp and equalizer section for the Neve modular consoles. A glance through the credits on today’s platinum-selling albums reveals that these vintage consoles are still widely used to great effect, confirming the 1081’s status as a truly classic component in a recording front-end or mixing environment. We are still hand-building 1081 modules in Burnley, UK much the same way as the original modules, using the original components, hand-wound transformers, and time-honed construction methods.
Features
- Legendary Neve® microphone preamp and equalizer design (Class AB)
- Exclusive Marinair® specification transformers used on input and output stages
- 5 switchable EQ bands
- HP and LP selectable filters (18dB per octave)
- Separate 48V phantom power supply
- 180° phase flip
- Solo button selects channel unbalanced output
- Spare button for external switching
- Hand-built and wired precisely to original 1972 specifications
Specifications
Mic Amplifier Section
- Microphone Input: Input impedance 300 Ohms or 1200 Ohms, gain +80dB to +20dB in 5dB steps.Input is transformer balanced and earth free.
- Line Input: Input impedance 10,000 Ohms bridging, gain +20dB to -10dB in 5dB steps.Input is transformer balanced and earth free.
- Output: Maximum output is >+26dBu into 600 Ohms. Output impedance is 75 Ohms +/-5% @ 1kHz, balanced and earth-free.An unbalanced output 8dB below the level of the balanced output is also provided.
- Distortion: Not more than 0.07% from 50Hz for +20dBm output from 50Hz to 15kHz (80kHz bandwidth)
- Frequency Response: +/-0.5dB from 20Hz to 20kHz, -3dB at 7Hz and 35kHz
- Noise: Output noise better than -42dBm from Zin 1200 Ohms and -80dB input, giving an equivalent noise of -125dBm referred to 600 Ohms input impedance fed from 100 OhmsOutput noise better than 80dBm at all line input levels (22Hz to 22kHz bandwidth)
EQ Section
- High Frequency controls: 5 switched frequencies, shelving or peaking curve, continuously variable 18dB cut or boost.- High Frequency Presence: 10 switched frequencies with continuously variable 18dB cut or boost, high or low Q section.
- Low Frequency controls: 5 switched frequencies, shelving or peaking curve, continuously variable 18dB cut or boost.- Low Frequency Presence: 10 switched frequencies with continuously variable 18dB cut or boost, high or low Q section.
- High Pass Filter: 5 switched frequencies with slope of 18dB per octave.
- Low Pass Filter: 5 switched frequencies with slope of 18dB per octave.
Audio controls
- Phase Button: Gives 180 degree phase change at balanced output.
- EQ Button: Selects equalisation in or out of circuit.
- SOLO Button: Selects channel unbalanced output and closing switch contact.
- Spare Button: Switches external device as required.
Power
- Power Requirements: 200mA at 24V DC, Negative earth
Module Dimensions
- Width: 45mm (1.8 inches)
- Height: 305mm (12.15 inches)
- Depth: 300mm (11.8 inches) behind front panel
- Approx. Weight: 3kg (6.5 pounds)