Neve 88M - NAMM 2022

Neve show use their new 88M interface, with transformer loaded preamps.

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[musiccreation]

For anyone with questions and concerns about the 88M using USB power, below is the response I received from AMS Neve --->>

June 13, 2022:

AMS Neve responds to USB power questions and the numerous accusations of using DSP preamps, using Chinese parts off of AliExpress, etc, ETC! Here is the email response I received from AMS Neve, in its entirety: --->>

“Thank you for your email.

The 88M uses the same preamp topology as the 88RS console and is built to the exacting high standards we apply to all of our products. We don't outsource 88M manufacturing to China or anywhere else, the 88M is designed, manufactured and assembled here in the UK by our skilled engineers.  

The 88RS preamp design differs from the vintage Neve preamp designs and is less power-hungry than classic class-A preamps such as the 1073 this allows us to take advantage of USB 3.0 bus power. The 88M uses boost converters to convert the USB 3 DC power supply to produce adequate voltages for the +/- power rails and +48v phantom power.  

The 88M input is transformer balanced using the exact same 88RS Marinair specification transformer which gives the preamp 6dB of 'free' gain, the signal is then amplified through a premium AD797 op amp which makes up the bulk of the gain staging. The preamp output is also servo-balanced, a premium feature you won't find in many audio interface preamps.
This topology is identical to the 88RS console preamp.

The only real difference between the 88RS console preamp and 88M preamp is a slight reduction in headroom, from +26dBu to +18dBu, which is still more than enough for professional recording, other than that, the design and performance is identical.”

[musiccreation]

It would be great if someone from SoS or Neve could explain how limited usb power (just 5v) can adequately power the preamps & transformers used in the device. This concern has been raised ad nauseam on other 88m related YT video comments.

[flyingdiscproductions]

which Neve transformers are in this device?