TEST: AMS Neve 4081

 Even the strongest trademark in professional studio operations has to keep up with the times, which is why the company founded by Rupert Neve has taken the legendary 1081 microphone preamplifier as a starting point with the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic and has simply quadrupled it.

The construction of the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic

One of the names you first get to know in your training in sound engineering is the Neve company, which after being bought by Siemens in 1985, merged with Advanced Music Systems into the AMS company in 1992 Neve was converted. The microphone preamps 1073 and 1081 are still among the company's best-known classics and are held in the highest esteem simply because of their countless copies from other manufacturers. This excellent reputation will not be lost under the new label. In recent years, several new products have been introduced based on these original designs, but with modern improvements to better align with today's current workflow practices and requirements.

The new 4081 Quad Mic Preamp is based on the immense success of the 1081 module, which is constructed identically to the original mixing console from 1972 or the remote-controlled 1081R variant, which contains up to 12 compact preamp modules based on the original Neve 1081 or the technically improved AIR Montserrat Studio variant offered space.

At first glance, the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic looks like a double brick due to its height of 2U, its half rack width of 9.5 inches and its rather large depth of 270 mm. A rack kit is available as an option, allowing either a single 4081 or a pair to be installed in a rack if required. However, the device also has aluminum handles on the front that protect the controls and allow the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic to be used as a standalone version. In this case the system rests on 4 rubber feet which are attached to the underside.

Despite its bulky appearance, the 4081 is surprisingly light, weighing just 3 kg, which is probably due to the fact that the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic has an external power supply. You can do it, but to be honest, in my opinion you should be able to expect a cold appliance plug at a retail price of just under €3,500.

As with the 1081R, each function of the four channels can be controlled either directly from the front panel or via Neve's remote control. The software is available for PC and Mac, the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic is connected via USB 2. For multiple operation, the units are connected in series via the RS485 interface. In this way, up to 16 of these units can be controlled remotely, allowing a maximum upgrade of up to a total of 64 channels. A four-way rear panel DIP switch provides the ability to uniquely identify each 4081 module in a multi-module installation.

The case can also accommodate an optional digital converter card, which digitizes the four channel outputs and outputs them in both Firewire and AES3 formats. The same format is offered in digital format as a return channel. These are converted by a D/A converter and made available as analog line-level signals from a 25-pin D-Sub socket on the main device. These channels are typically used as monitor returns or as a direct monitor mix. The same D-Sub socket also provides access to balanced insert returns for each channel, allowing an alternative input signal to be routed to the D/A converters. Eight XLRs In/Outs on the back of the case provide four microphone/line inputs and the corresponding outputs. The external SMPS power supply is connected via an eight-pin DIN socket on the outside left of the housing.

Essentially there were 4 pieces in the 4081 case. 1081R preamps were installed, especially since the functions on the front are very similar. A large, very easily locked knob with the classic red Neve wing knob is located at the top of the channel and is used to adjust the preamplification. This control also has a push button function which is intended to query the console settings when the 4081 is used with a Neve 88R console. In microphone mode, the gain range extends from 20 to 70 dB in 5 dB increments, while in line mode it is reduced to 0 to 20 dB. The respective gain setting is displayed in a large, two-digit LED window below the control, with two additional LEDs indicating the signal present (green for signals above 30 dBu) and overload (red at +24 dBu, 2 dB below analog clipping). . Unfortunately, the gain control leaves a comparatively weak impression with its “floppy” holder and is in fact unworthy of a device in this price range.

Below the numeric display window, six illuminated pushbuttons provide all the usual preamp switching functions: phantom power, a 20 dB pad, low impedance mode (e.g. for ribbon microphones), mic/line input switching, polarity reversal and loop path activation, which switches the input to the (optional) D/A converter from the output of the preamplifier to an external input. With this function, for example, an external compressor can be patched between the analog output of a channel and the corresponding symmetrical insert return to the D/A converter and switched on and off using the front button of the 4081.

To the right of the four preamp control areas at the top of the panel is the familiar on/off button, identified by its illuminated Neve logo. Below there are two buttons that can be used to configure the sample rate and clock source of the optional digital card. Eight yellow LEDs display the current sample rate with all standard modes from 44.1 to 192 kHz, as well as indicators for 384 kHz and the DXD sample rate. Four green LEDs below, however, indicate the current clock source of Wordclock, AES3, Internal and Firewire.





In use

The 4081 may visually flirt with its past due to its classic, all-analog design, but the digital connectivity on the back shows the product is ready for integration into a modern studio. Already with the first signals played, the phenomenon that has given the name Neve its famous extra dose of glamor and glory for decades is revealed.

It's really hard to describe what happens acoustically once you have the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic in the signal path, but the sonic difference is clearly noticeable. Almost every signal fed in, regardless of style or frequency spectrum, gains density and character. You could almost think that the product, which “only” provides the preamp function, has its own, discreetly adjusted channel strip consisting of compressor, EQ and enhancer built in.

At first listening impression, you completely miss the inner need to process the signal with appropriate tools, the signal pours out of the monitors so round, full-bodied and yet natural, in a word, the signal once again sounds “analog” in the best sense of the word of the word.

The narrow-breasted signal donors, e.g. B. in the form of ribbon microphones at your expense, or room microphones, which only deliver very little level. Even with full preamplification, the noise component is negligible and does not color the signal in any way.

To test the flexibility of the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic on different signals, several dynamic and frequency diametric signals were used. It starts with a spatially microphoned natural drum set:

The following are recordings of a radio loop:

A typical electric bass figure for the bass range:

Something synthetic from the electrical sector:

Finally a female voice:

Conclusion

With the AMS Neve 4081 QuadMic, the British company once again underlines its legendary reputation when it comes to sound. With the product you get 4 units of the 1081R module for a comparatively low price, provided your personal budget even allows an investment in this quality class.

The digital connection and system expansion is exemplary and also enables operation in a modern digital studio. Especially with appropriate cascading, the system can show off its full strengths in the form of a full-bodied analog sound that is in the top league.

However, what caused AMS Neve to initiate such inferior integration of the input controls in this high-end product will always remain a mystery to me. In my opinion it's the only, but unfortunately also a very big, negative point in an otherwise outstanding product.

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Additional Informations:


In the realm of professional audio equipment, few names resonate with as much reverence as AMS Neve. With a history spanning over five decades, AMS Neve has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology, setting the industry standard for high-quality recording and mixing equipment. This comprehensive article delves into the origins, innovations, and impact of AMS Neve in the world of sound engineering.

## A Storied Beginning

The story of AMS Neve begins in the early 1960s when Rupert Neve, a British electronics engineer and visionary, founded Neve Electronics. Rupert Neve's passion for audio engineering led him to develop some of the most iconic and influential audio equipment in history, setting the stage for the legacy of AMS Neve.

In 1970, Neve Electronics merged with Automated Music Systems (AMS), giving birth to AMS Neve. This union brought together Neve's reputation for crafting high-end recording consoles and AMS's expertise in digital audio technology. The company's headquarters remained in the United Kingdom, where its engineers continued to innovate and create cutting-edge audio equipment.

## Legendary Consoles

AMS Neve is perhaps best known for its legendary analog recording consoles. These consoles have graced the world's most renowned recording studios and have been used to produce countless hit records. Notable examples include the Neve 8028, Neve 8078, and Neve VR Series consoles, which have been cherished for their exceptional sound quality, pristine mic preamps, and versatile EQ sections. These consoles have played pivotal roles in shaping the sound of music across various genres, from rock to classical to pop.

## Iconic Signal Processors

Beyond consoles, AMS Neve has made significant contributions to the world of signal processing. The company's outboard gear, such as the Neve 1073 preamp and 33609 compressor, have become iconic pieces of equipment coveted by audio engineers and producers worldwide. The Neve 1073, in particular, is celebrated for its warm, colorful, and character-rich sound, making it a staple for recording vocals, guitars, and drums.

## Digital Advancements

AMS Neve didn't rest on its analog laurels; the company embraced digital technology with the same fervor that defined its analog offerings. The Neve DFC (Digital Film Console) and Genesys digital console exemplify the brand's commitment to innovation. The DFC, for instance, has been instrumental in the post-production industry, providing advanced mixing capabilities for films and television shows.

## Commitment to Quality

One of the hallmarks of AMS Neve is its unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The company has consistently used the finest components and materials in its products, ensuring longevity and reliability. Each piece of equipment is handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, upholding the standards set by Rupert Neve himself.

## Studio Integration

AMS Neve's dedication to the needs of modern studios is evident in its products' integration capabilities. The Neve BCM10/2 Mk2, for instance, combines analog circuitry with digital control, allowing seamless integration into today's digital audio workstations (DAWs). This forward-thinking approach ensures that AMS Neve remains at the forefront of studio technology.

## Awards and Recognition

The industry has not been slow to recognize the excellence of AMS Neve. Over the years, the company has received numerous awards, including multiple Technical Grammy Awards from the Recording Academy. These accolades acknowledge AMS Neve's enduring contributions to the advancement of audio technology.

## The Legacy Continues

As technology evolves, AMS Neve continues to adapt and innovate. The brand's ongoing commitment to creating exceptional audio equipment ensures its relevance in an ever-changing industry. AMS Neve remains synonymous with uncompromising sound quality, trusted by audio professionals who demand the best.

In conclusion, AMS Neve's journey from its humble beginnings to its current status as a global leader in audio technology is a testament to the passion, innovation, and dedication of its founders and team. With legendary analog consoles, iconic signal processors, and cutting-edge digital solutions, AMS Neve has left an indelible mark on the world of audio engineering, shaping the way we hear and experience music and sound.