Rupert Neve Designs has announced the 5211 Two Channel Microphone Preamplifier, offering 72dB of gain, sweepable high-pass filters, variable Silk output saturation, and the same dual-tap output transformers found in the company’s Shelford Channel. These custom output transformers provide both high-headroom and -6dB low-headroom outputs, allowing the user to fully drive the output stage without clipping converters and increasing the unit’s possible tonal variations.

Rupert Neve Designs’ first product was the 5012 Duo Mic Preamp, released in 2005; the new 5211 represents an evolution of the 5012’s features, circuit design and form factor. Aside from the 19-inch width, Shelford style faceplate color, new dual-tap output transformers, higher voltage ±21V rails and internal auto-switching power supply, the addition of the company’s variable Silk circuit ‘saturates the class-A output stage to dial the harmonic content up to and beyond that of Rupert’s classic designs, while still providing the option of a pristine, open and modern sound when disengaged’.

‘Simple and elegant, the 5211 is the natural evolution of what is arguably the most famous gear in audio recording history – Rupert Neve’s microphone preamps,’ the company says. ‘The 5211 delivers a versatile, flattering, and uncompromising front end for any signal path.’

The 5211 is now shipping worldwide, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US$1,995.

More: http://rupertneve.com