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What are the best Neve knock-off mic preamps? I've been reading good things about Vintech, Chandler, Great River, and AMS Neve. I'm looking to for something good to use on drums, vocals, and guitars.
I'm not sure whether AMS Neve is the same company that produced the original 1073 and 1081 models that everyone lusts after. Please clarify.
Thanks,
Benny

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RemyRAD Tue, 03/07/2006 - 00:12

Benny, why buy a knockoff when you can buy the real thing? And I'm not talking Coca-Cola here. One of the things that made a Neve sound like a Neve were those goofy transformers. Made by Marinar radar! So do you think that they were originally intended for audio? I don't think so. They just happen to have the right specifications that an old well-trained hard-nosed engineer needed for his circuit. That's a big chunk of the Neve sound and the reason why most of the knockoffs really don't sound anything like the originals. Most of the knockoffs probably sound better but they don't sound like a Neve. So if you just want an imitation, why not buy a Beringer?? LOL! So I would like a Cadillac. I guess I could do with a Chevy instead? Probably sounds the same? NOT

Own a Neve. Buy a Chevy.
Ms. Remy Ann David

Kev Tue, 03/07/2006 - 00:25

Those Neve's are old and probably need a little help
... give it to a tech that knows and you will have a Mic-pre as it was delivered
that same tech can probably put together a unit from scratch that will suit your needs directly

some say that a Tantalum Cap is also part of that significant Neve sound.
Not only is there Mariner but there is Carnhill and St Ives
there is lots of opinions out there

AMS Neve are making some Classic gear again and don't like the various web sites dedicated to understanding and restoring and assembling these old things

you can hear what Dan K. has to say about his Great River units at the 3dB site