The AMS Neve 8816 Summing Mixer elevates your projects to the level of world-class analog consoles. Handbuilt and handwired, its 16-channel mixer uses transformer-balanced mix bus circuitry derived from 1970s Neve 80-series consoles, delivering increased headroom, punch, and three-dimensional sonic character. Beyond analog summing, the 8816 features cue mixing, per-channel solo/mute, talkback, metering, and a versatile monitoring section with a volume knob, auxiliary input, dual headphone outputs, and alternate speaker outputs. The main stereo insert send/return allows processing across the full mix, while the Width knob provides precise stereo field control. For tactile control, pair the 8816 with an 8804 Fader Pack (sold separately). A USB port enables session recall, and a digital I/O option provides A/D conversion (optional card sold separately).
Legendary Neve 80-series consoles have shaped countless iconic recordings. The 8816 retains authentic 80-series topology with two Neve Marinair specification transformers on the stereo mix bus, providing the classic heft, punch, and non-linearities that define Neve’s sound. Ideal for tracking, summing, submixing, or mastering, every project benefits from the unmistakable character and vibrancy of a true Neve console.
The 8816 offers a full-featured 16-channel mixer. Each channel includes a rotary Level control (+4dBu/-10dBV, ∞dB to +15dB), Pan knob with -3dB center attenuation, Cue button for pre-fader/pre-pan cue mixes, and a Cut/Solo button. Channels 1–14 are individually selectable for cue, while channels 15–16 are stereo linked, useful for playback during overdubs. The latching solo system allows grouping channels for auditioning or muting — perfect for EQ adjustments and comping.
The 8816’s extensive mix send/return options include stereo insert sends for full-mix processing, parallel returns for New York-style compression, and a Width control for mastering-level stereo enhancement. The 2-track return can be routed to the cue mix or main monitor mix. Independent level controls on insert and return paths, Mid-Side processing, and a hidden talkback mic ensure studio-grade flexibility. USB connectivity allows session recall, and cascading up to 32 units provides up to 512 channels for large-scale setups.
The monitoring section offers four sources: 2-track return, channels 1/2 pre-fader, auxiliary input, and main monitor mix. Mon Level and Mix Level knobs provide precise output calibration. Main/alternate speaker outputs and dual parallel headphone outputs (front and rear) facilitate critical listening. Two quasi-PPM VU meters, analog and digital clip LEDs, and balanced line outputs to external headphone amps complete a versatile, professional monitoring suite.
Rupert Neve’s pioneering work in tube and solid-state consoles established the foundation for modern recording. From the 80-series to the 8078, VR, VX, and 88R series, Neve consoles have defined the sound of top studios worldwide. AMS Neve continues to innovate with advanced pro audio gear that blends iconic analog character with modern digital integration, and the 8816 Summing Mixer carries this tradition forward with exceptional performance and flexibility.
The 8816 brings legendary Neve® console sound to a 19″ rack format, utilizing the same topology as the classic 80 Series consoles and featuring two Marinair® transformers on the stereo bus output. Designed as the ultimate 16-channel rackmount Neve console, the 8816 employs an active summing design delivering up to +15dB of gain boost across 16 balanced inputs. Its powerful voltage mixing topology — pioneered in early Neve® 80-series consoles — drops the pre-output level to approximately -80dBu before boosting it through output transformers to drive the final stage, contributing to the golden, cherished character heard on countless classic recordings.
Packed with professional features, the 8816 is ideal for studio tracking and mixing. Independent cue sends on all 16 channels, multiple headphone connections and controls, and a built-in talkback system make it a complete recording solution for smaller studios. Each channel includes cut and solo switching, plus a dedicated rotary pan control with -3dB center panning and S-Law shaping for precise stereo placement.
With integrated Neve® monitoring controls, there’s no need for a separate monitor controller. Dual balanced or unbalanced loudspeaker outputs connect to two sets of studio monitors, while multiple monitoring sources — including a 3.5mm mini-jack for external devices — provide flexible playback options. Complementing the Marinair® transformer-coupled mix bus are two stereo bus inserts, including a second IMR insert with blend control for parallel bus compression using your favorite analog processors.
A powerful mid-side processor can be activated before the insert sends, allowing independent processing of mono and stereo components with EQ, compression, or other outboard gear. Neve’s proprietary stereo width control sweeps from mono to an enhanced, hyper-wide stereo image, delivering musical results across its full range.
For tactile control of all 16 channels and stereo mix output, pair the 8816 with the 8804 Fader Pack to create a true console-style workflow. If additional channels are required, multiple 8816 units can be combined via the 2-Track bus linking feature to build a larger custom mixing system tailored to your studio.
Session recall is streamlined via USB connection to PC or Mac using the Neve® Recall software. Routing and switching are automatically restored, while rotary controls are quickly matched to stored positions. An optional A/D conversion card provides premium Neve® stereo digital output in AES3 and DSD formats, with selectable sample rates up to 192kHz and clocking via AES Sync or word clock BNC. The converter also includes an ADC insert, allowing external sources to benefit from Neve’s high-quality A/D conversion.
| Type | Analog Summing Mixer |
|---|---|
| Channels | 16 |
| Computer Connectivity | USB |
| A/D Resolution | 192kHz |
| Inputs - Line | 2 x DB-25 |
| Outputs - Main | 2 x 1/4" (main), 2 x 1/4" (alt), 1 x DB-25 (main) |
| Outputs - Direct | 2 x 1/4" (mix) |
| Inserts | 2 x DB-25 (in/out) |
| Headphones | 2 x 1/4" |
| USB | 1 x Type B |
| Talkback | Yes |
| Rackmountable | 2U |
| Power Source | 36V DC power supply (included) |
| Height | 3.5" |
| Width | 19" |
| Depth | 15.4" |
| Weight | 16 lbs. |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 8816 |
