Four Remote-Accessible Neve 1081 Preamps

Based on the legendary 1081 circuit, the AMS Neve 4081 Quad delivers four channels of British-style audaciousness in a compact 9.5-inch unit. You can control its functions directly from the front panel or via Neve Remote Control software on your computer. Multiple units can be linked to provide up to 64 independent channels of preamplification, all controllable from a single computer. Each channel features mic and electronically balanced line level selection, 48V phantom power, a -20dB pad, polarity reverse, and a Low-Z option for ribbon microphones. The 4081 Quad also offers a digital I/O option with four channels of A/D conversion (option card sold separately), making it an ideal solution for computer-based studios seeking Neve-class punch.

Four Channels of Unmistakable Neve Character

The Neve 1081 console module, introduced in 1972 as an upgrade to the 1073, has earned legendary status for its bold, commanding sound. The AMS Neve 4081 Quad contains four of these classic circuits, allowing you to infuse recordings with the same unmistakable Neve character that has powered countless hit records. This compact preamp captures the essence of the original 1081 while offering modern flexibility.

Each Channel is Laden with Pro-Level Features

Each channel of the 4081 Quad delivers up to +70dB of gain, with selectable Line (0dB to +20dB) and Mic (+20dB to +70dB) levels. Additional features include +48V phantom power for condenser microphones, a -20dB pad for high-output sources, and polarity reverse for phase correction. The Low-Z button optimizes impedance for ribbon microphones, and illuminated press-to-select buttons make front-panel operation intuitive and efficient.

Convenient Software Control for Modern Workflows

Integration into computer-based workflows is seamless, thanks to remote software control over all front-panel-accessible parameters via USB. Multiple linked 4081 Quad units allow up to 64 channels to be managed from a single computer running Neve Remote Control software, simplifying studio, live sound, and broadcast operations.

The Legend Continues

The Neve name remains synonymous with excellence in professional audio. From Rupert Neve’s pioneering console designs in the 1960s to the iconic 80-series consoles that defined the sound of 1970s rock, Neve equipment has shaped generations of recordings. Milestones such as the 8078 console and NECAM automation system further cemented the brand’s influence. Today, AMS Neve continues to innovate, creating cutting-edge pro audio gear that blends timeless analog heritage with modern production requirements.

What Neve Says...

The Number One Choice for Professionals

The AMS Neve 4081 Quad Mic Preamp builds on the legendary 1081 and 1081R modules, offering both robust control and the classic Neve® sound. Every function of the 4081 can be controlled directly from the front panel or remotely via a Mac or PC using Neve Remote Control software. Multiple units can be linked to provide up to 64 individual preamp channels, all managed from a single point. This flexibility allows preamps to be positioned in live rooms while keeping mic lines short, ideal for modern studios, live sound venues, and broadcast suites.

Premium Analogue Design

Each preamp channel is balanced with exclusive Marinair® specification transformers. The 4081 employs four Class A/B preamplifiers, delivering up to 70dB of high-gain output with fast, detailed, and musical transient response. This makes it perfect for capturing percussive instruments with clarity and fidelity. The endless stepped gain encoder adjusts mic and line input levels in precise 5dB increments, ensuring accurate gain control either from the front panel or remotely via connected Mac/PC systems.

Clear Visual Feedback

Front-mounted digital readouts display exact gain levels, complemented by independent signal presence and clip LEDs, allowing at-a-glance monitoring during large tracking sessions. Optional digital I/O provides premium analogue-to-digital conversion up to 192kHz for all four channels, with AES or Firewire connectivity. Four digital-to-analogue converters allow monitoring, performer cue sends, or integration with analogue equipment. The unit can synchronize with external gear via AES sync or word clock connections.

Rackmount Flexibility and Recall

With the optional rackmount kit, the 4081 fits into a 2U 19″ frame, and two units can be combined to create eight channels of rack-mounted 1081 preamps. On power-up, the unit recalls identical settings and levels from the previous session. Phantom power, -20dB pad, and phase invert can be accessed on the front panel or fully controlled via remote software. Four balanced insert points expand analogue processing capabilities, allowing EQs and compressors to be inserted before the A/D conversion stage.