SCA N72 Microphone Preamp Kit ORDER THIS KIT Mail A Link To This Page To A Friend!

Neve microphone preamps have acquired a legendary status among recording engineers and musicians alike. Even 30 years after their introduction, they are still among the most coveted pieces of recording equipment. These preamps have a simple class-A design with a minimum number of components in the signal path, but what components they do have lend them an unmistakable character. They've become especially popular with digital recordists, since many feel the Neve preamp provides a certain warmth and character that can greatly benefit the hyper-accurate quality of digital recording. While vintage units are still available, unfortunately for small studios and recording musicians the cost of racked vintage modules often puts them out of reach. It's not uncommon for a single vintage 1272 to sell for more than $1000. But for those willing to wield a soldering iron, there's now an alternative: the N72.

The circuitry of the N72 is exactly the same as that of the BA183/283 amplifier used in the 1272, 1073, and other Neve modules. Unlike the originals, the N72 adds an input attenuator/gain control switch, output fader, phase reverse and phantom power switches, and XLR connectors to the same printed circuit board. The design uses through-hole parts for easy assembly, transformers from the original manufacturer, and from a sonic perspective is virtually indistinguishable from an original Neve. With its modular design, the N72 preamp can be mounted horizontally or vertically in a standard 8" deep enclosure, and its compact size allows 8 channels to fit in a 2U 19" chassis. Best of all, it costs less than $400/channel in kit form. And for those who have more confidence in their musical ability than their soldering skills, assembled modules and complete preamps are available as well.

This site contains a parts list, schematics, and instructions for assembling an N72. The site is also a work-in-progress, and will benefit greatly from your feedback. Please have a look around, and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.

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