Rupert Neve's 542 Tape Emulator and 511 MicPre announced for NAMM 2013

RND (Rupert Neve Designs) recently revealed their new 500 series line with the 511 Microphone preamplifier and 542 Tape Emulator that will be showcased at NAMM 2013(Jan. 24-27). I like their Portico series and I'm excited to see it now available in the 500 series format. The units are reasonably priced at $895 for the 542 and $649 for the 511.

From their website:

"For the 2013 NAMM show, Rupert Neve Designs is announcing two new 500 Series modules: the 511 Mic Pre with Silk, and the 542 True Tape Emulator with Texture. As two of the only 500 Series modules actually designed by Mr. Rupert Neve, the 511 and 542 combine the classic tone and versatility expected from a Rupert Neve design with the form factor and value of the 500 Series format."

"The 542’s “True Tape” emulation circuit provides the nostalgic rounding and compression typically achieved only through the use of tape, and can offset the harshness often found in digital recordings. Unlike digital emulations, the “True Tape” drive circuit works by feeding a tiny magnetic “record head,” which in turn is coupled to a correctly-equalized replay amplifier. As the voltage rises on the “record head,” saturation increases, and a soft-clip circuit engages at higher levels to round off harsh peak transients. The sound of the tape circuit can be further modified with selectable 15 and 30 ipsmodes, providing a “saturation equalization” of sorts, and a pre/post-tape blend control. In addition to the tape circuit, the 542 also includes the variable Silk/Texture circuitry found in the Portico II series of modules (with both much-loved Red and Blue modes), which allows the engineer to fine-tune the harmonic ratio and tonality of the output transformer."

"The 511 can be used for either mic or line sources, and pairs perfectly with any ribbon, dynamic, condenser or tube microphone. A polarity reverse switch is available to conquer phase issues when using multiple microphones. The 12 dB/octave swept high-pass filter can be dialed-in to remove rumble with minimal artifacts, and also to control proximity effect in close-mic’d vocals or other sources. To coax more rich harmonic content from the output transformer, the Silk Red mode can be engaged to add more thickness and sparkle in the high end as the Texture level is increased. While a little Silk Red can sound great on nearly any source, it is especially useful on dynamic and ribbon microphones that are inherently lacking in high-frequency energy and excitement."

Get more details on RND's 542 and 511 500 series modules at http://rupertneve.com.