MESSE 2014: Neve Console Gets Automation

US Rupert Neve designs SwiftMix Automation for the 5088 12/03/14

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Rupert Neve Designs is introducing SwiftMix Automation for the 5088 console. They tell us that, built around state-of-the-art motorized faders and DAW control over Ethernet, SwiftMix combines the accuracy and convenience of digital automation with the unrivaled analogue sound of the Rupert Neve Designs 5088 Console.

Since its debut six years ago, the 5088 has redefined the possibilities of audio quality. Incorporating 90 volt power rails, discrete, class-A signal paths, and custom transformers, the 5088 is now considered by many to be the pinnacle of Mr. Rupert Neve's esteemed design lineage. With the introduction of SwiftMix, engineers can now enjoy the speed and recall abilities of their DAW with seamless integration in the 5088 frame.

For company founder and lead designer Mr. Rupert Neve, "The goal of the 5088 was to create a console with the absolute best possible audio performance, along with the long term reliability of my original designs. We spent years developing the high voltage circuitry and transformers that have improved the total dynamic range by over 10dB, and the resulting experience of listening to music through a 5088 is beyond anything I have previously witnessed. By adding SwiftMix to the 5088, you will be able to take full advantage of modern digital control, while maintaining an entirely analogue signal path, and thus not compromising the quality which we worked so hard to achieve."

Each SwiftMix channel features five illuminating tact switches and a 100mm motorized fader. The switches control DAW channel selection, DAW solo, DAW mute, channel record enable and automation mode. The automation mode switch toggles the selection between off, read, touch, latch and write, which are individually indicated with LEDs on the fader panel. A carbon impregnated fader cap provides immediate touch responsiveness, and the 100mm motorized fader is extremely accurate to 1/5mm for writing, adjusting and following of automation commands.

For maximum compatibility, SwiftMix communicates via a 9-bit HUI-over-Ethernet protocol. SwiftMix's implementation provides precise fader mapped calibration, which allows the motorized analogue fader to match levels previously set in the DAW. This attention to detail is essential for flawlessly recalling mixes created in the box or at another location. System setup can be accomplished in moments by connecting a single Ethernet cable to the DAW host computer and then adding SwiftMix as a HUI Controller in the DAW. No drivers are required for PC or Mac, and channels are automatically assigned and matched to channels in the DAW. SwiftMix is primarily optimized for use in AVID Pro Tools and Apple Logic, but it will work with most DAWs supporting HUI control surfaces.

Featuring a VCA-less motorized fader design, DAW-based communication, and instant, precise control, with SwiftMix there is finally an automation system worthy of the 5088 Console. Systems will be available both for new 5088s as well as retrofitting existing 5088s.

Pricing and Availability:
The first SwiftMix systems will ship in Q2 of 2014.

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