Rupert Neve Designs 511 500-Series Microphone Preamp with Silk Texture Control

Rupert Neve Designs 511 500-Series Microphone Preamp with Silk Texture Control


With a big, bold preamp and the flexibility of variable Silk/Texture, Rupert Neve designed the 511 to combine classic sonics with 500-series value. Incorporating the 517’s powerful preamp, the 5012’s universally useful sweepable high pass filter, and the transformer-saturating power of a variable silk circuit derived from our flagship Portico II Channel, the 511 is a Rupert Neve-designed micpre for the masses.

Designed for 500 Series by Mr. Rupert Neve

Rupert Neve: “While creating functional 500 series modules is relatively simple, designing those modules to equal their non-500 series counterparts with the current, voltage and space restraints is quite challenging. In creating our own 500-Series Modules, we experimented with a number of different transformer and circuit designs to achieve the same presence and sweetness found in the Portico Series of modules. The result of these efforts is that outside of the slightly lowered headroom, our 500 series modules are nearly indistinguishable from standard Portico Series modules, and are perfectly suited for studios of the highest caliber.”

Input Section

Input signals may be derived from Mic or Line sources (make sure 48V is off for line sources!). The input has a 10K Ω non-reactive input resistance that handles a full 22dBu signal without the need for a pad. The pre-amp is a TLA non-reactive design that precludes the loading of microphones with limited driving capability. A primary gain control provides 66dB of gain in 6dB increments for easy recall, with a +/- 6dB trim for fine adjustment. For condenser microphones and powered DIs, there is +48V phantom power. A transient-optimized HPF continuously covering the range from 20-250Hz is included to tame rumble and proximity effect.

“Rated 5/5” I’ve been using a pair of these for a month or so now. I’m very happy with them. Silk/Texture really is great. At moderate settings it has a classic sound to it and at high settings it becomes extremely obvious and takes the sound to new places. Contrary to some other opinions, this is not subtle, at least not at higher settings. At lower settings, yes – you could say its subtle. ”

gainstages (gearslutz)

Texture

One of the key developments in the 511 is the Red Silk / Texture control from the Portico II Channel. Building on the “Silk” mode found in the Portico Series mic pre-amplifiers, Texture is designed to adjust the actual amount of harmonic music content from the source material, in effect, providing wide range of tonal options for the preamplifier. Like the original Portico Silk, the Silk Red / Texture works by reducing negative feedback on the output transformer and adjusting the frequency response to more closely resemble Mr. Rupert Neve’s vintage designs. With the 511, the Texture control allows these techniques to be pushed further than previous designs, adding about 10 times the desirable THD of the original silk control at its maximum setting.

With that said, we have taken great care to ensure that the musical integrity of source material itself will not be compromised by these harmonic controls (these are not to be confused with controls from other manufactures that may “incinerate”, “demolish” or “destroy” source material), and we believe they can be confidently utilized to fit the personality of any song, instrument or engineer.

Low Noise, Low Distortion Operation

Much care was given in designing the 511 to produce as little noise and non-harmonic distortion as possible. Carefully implemented signal paths and Class A operation are a large part of the 511’s sweet, whisper quiet performance. For more information, go to Mr. Rupert Neve’s Design Notes.

Why Transformers?

A complete discussion on transformers is out of place at this point, but it is helpful to review some of the essentials where it will be seen that a design needs to be viewed as a whole, not simply from the point of view of a single component.

The fine subtleties of circuit design relating to sonic performance are gradually becoming more clearly understood. For example, research has shown conclusively that frequencies above 20 kHz affect the way in which humans perceive sound quality. But, long before scientific evidence emerged a substantial body of musicians and engineers knew that equipment with apparently the same technical measurements could sound very different.

Incredibly small amounts of musically dissonant odd harmonics have a disastrous effect on the sound quality. Extraneous noise or interference that finds its way into a signal path seriously impairs performance of the whole chain.

Many control rooms make use of outboard gear that is not well protected from external signals. Poor grounding of such equipment can be a serious problem. “Electronically balanced” circuits much used in modern equipment, can give very good measurements on the test bench but they do not provide adequate rejection of the stray fields found in every working environment.

Input and output circuits must be freed from ground dependence so that only the “wanted” signal enters and leaves the processing path. Transformers are the ideal solution. The sweet and silky sound of my classic old favorite consoles was achieved with big transistors and large high quality transformers. Rupert Neve Designs Portico modules achieve similar quality today without the bulk or the cost.

In order that modules can work together as would be expected (i.e. in a proprietary console configuration) without producing hum, R.F. interference, or other interactions, the connecting interfaces, grounding, levels and impedances must receive careful attention. Each of our Portico and 500-Series modules is a complete integral signal processor that delivers its specified performance independently. This is one of the reasons we use transformers.

MIC GAIN

A 12-way precision rotary switch controls gain from 0 to 66 dB in 6 dB steps.

TRIM

Continuously variable +/-6 dB level control.

+48V

Engages phantom power on the microphone input, as supplied by the 500 series rack.

POLARITY

Push button inverts the polarity of the signal path, and illuminates when engaged. The symbol “Ø” is often used to denote opposite polarity.

HIGH PASS FILTER

The high pass filter is continuously variable from 20-250Hz and engaged by the HPF switch, which illuminates when engaged. It is a valuable aid in any signal chain, but particularly so in a microphone preamplifier. Signals below the selected frequency are attenuated at a rate of 12db / octave, getting rid of proximity effect, building rumble, air handling, motor hum, etc.

SILK / TEXTURE

Pushing the Silk button engages the red Silk circuit, which reduces the negative feedback on the output transformer, adding harmonic content as the texture is increased. Red Silk accentuates the saturation in the mid and high frequencies, similar to that of the red silk mode on the Portico II Channel. By manipulating the Texture control, the amount of Silk can be changed from essentially absent, to roughly 10 times the amount of coloration / distortion found in Silk from the original Portico Series. With Silk / Texture engaged, the distortion characteristic and harmonic content of the unit are very reminiscent of many of Rupert’s class-A vintage designs.

LEVEL METER

An Eight-segment LED bar-graph meter displays output level (pre-Silk). The color range proceeds from green for lower level signals, yellow for intermediate signals, and red for high levels. When the 511 is clipped, the highest red LED will hold longer depending on how far above the clip threshold the signal was.

Welcome to ScitScat Music!

Scitscat's aim is to please and have been doing just that since 1994, over 100,000 Internet and store transactions in that time.

Music is our love and we have GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) just like you. We buy studios, closeouts, and other gear in quantity and pass the savings on to you, our customers and friends.

We are musicians who write, record, produce, and play live just like you! We absolutely love music.

Our gear changes on an hourly basis and so will our website, so check back often as you won’t want to miss out on some unbelievable gear! We guarantee you that you will love doing business with us! You will get the respect that you deserve! You have our word on that!

ScitScat Music

12302 SW 117th Court, Miami, Florida, 33186, USA

Buy with confidence!

Scitscat Music's been selling on eBay since 1994, with 99.9% positive feedback!.

  • More than 20 years in business
  • World-class customer service
  • Free tech support from audio experts
  • Family-Owned and Operated Music Store.


We ship only to confirmed addresses, we will refund any other payments.

We ship via USPS, UPS, FedEx, or DHL - Monday thru Friday.


Domestic Shipping:

We provide free shipping to the lower 48 contiguous states, on most items. AK, HI, APO, FPO, PO Boxes, and US Protectorates (PR, VI and American Samoa) addresses will incur additional shipping fees & charges. Please contact us for a shipping quote.


International Shipping:

We do not collect or charge International Customs Taxes/Fees/VAT/Duties. Please check with your local government for rates prior to purchasing an item from our store.

We only ship internationally the products that are allowed to be shipped outside of the USA. Many manufacturers prohibit sales outside of the USA and we adhere to those set rules. All international orders are subject to customs fees, taxes, duties, VAT, etc. These charges are NOT a part of shipping charges, and are collected by your local customs agencies. Please learn about these charges before placing an order. Refusal to pay these charges results in undeliverable and return to sender packages, and we do not refund shipping charges in these instances. If any charges incur in the return process, those charges will not be subtracted from your refund.

If you order hasn’t arrived in a normal time frame, it is most likely held at your local customs office. You should have been contacted by them to pay duties/import tax. You will need to pick up the package in person with valid identification.


If you have any questions regarding shipping or tracking your item, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via eBay Messages.



Scitscat Music is committed to deliver the best experience for our customers. If for some reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it for a refund of the purchase price, an exchange or a store credit within 30 days from the order date. Shipping costs will be deducted from your refund if your order qualified for “Free Shipping”. Items that are not returned in the original condition as shipped, are subject to a 25% restocking fee. We charge a 25% restocking fee on returned items only if the item is clearly used and/or the original packaging is tarnished and/or if there are any missing parts/accessories. A 15% restocking fee is our general restocking fee charged when an item is returned in pristine/mint condition. The shipping costs we paid to ship your item will be deducted from the refund as well, since that service has been rendered. In some cases restocking fees and shipping costs can be applied as store credit


In the unlikely event that you received a defective product, a wrong product, or damaged product, Scitscat Music will replace it at no charge of any additional shipping cost. We will send you a prepaid label to return the item, and ship you a replacement. You will not incur any shipping charges. Please notify us of any of damaged, defective or mis-shipped products within 48 hours.

After 30 days, you may request manufacturer warranty if your item malfunctions. Scitscat Music is an Authorized Dealer for all the brands we represent, and you are 100% covered by your purchase for warranty.

How to request a return:
Please email us or call us to obtain a RMA number. Instructions will be discussed with our friendly customer service representatives. All returns must be in the exact condition and include all original packing materials, accessories and paperwork, as in which we shipped to you. 

We may apply a restocking fee if the returned products fall into these following categories:

  • Missing original packaging, manuals, accessories, or any contents that were included
  • Original box was written on, damaged, or taped with duck tape
  • RMA number was not associated with the return
  • Items not in original like new condition


The following items are not returnable, unless received DOA, in which we will send a replacement:

  • Software
  • Electronic Delivery of Software (eDelivery/Download)
  • Special Orders
  • DVD’s
  • CD's
  • Computer Software
  • Headphones
  • Microphones
  • Face Masks
  • Items that fall into the in mouth and in ear use category, such as mouthpieces, earphones, ear plugs, harmonicas, cannot be returned due to health regulations


These policies help us to be able to offer the best prices to our customers. Abuse to the return policy leads to increase operating costs and makes it hard for us to offer the best prices, free shipping, reward programs, and giveaways.

By purchasing from Scitscat Music you acknowledge all posted guidelines and policies.





ScitScat Music is an Authorized Dealer of all the brands that we sell, so BUY WITH CONFIDENCE! We pride ourselves on great customer service and want you to be 100% happy with your purchase!

All Brand New Items, unless otherwise noted, come with Full Manufacturer's Warranty.


Used/Mint/Refurbished/B-Stock/Open Box products are sold as-is. They are tested to full working order prior to shipment. If there is an issue with this product, we will assist you in filing a warranty claim with the Manufacturer to get your item in working order or swapped.


What is a Demo unit?

A Demo unit is an item that has been previously used for demo purposes or a video shoot. It is in 'like new' condition, including a full manufacturer’s warranty.

What is a B-Stock unit?

A B-Stock unit is an item that has been returned by a customer with little to no signs of wear and tear. It includes a full manufacturer’s warranty and all original parts/accessories.

What is an Open Box unit?

An Open Box unit is an item that may have been used in a store demo, used in a store display case, or loaned out to a customer to try. There is little to no signs of wear and tear. It includes a full manufacturer's warranty and all original parts/accessories.

Demo, B-Stock and Open Box items can no longer be sold as "A-STOCK" or "NEW". These products are offered at a special, reduced price, are fully functional and come with the full Manufacturer's Warranty. Customers may find that these products show traces of use or scuffing and are a great way to save money.





Scitscat Music is an Authorized Dealer for all software products we sell.

  • When you purchase software from us, you will be receiving a legal version provided to us by the software manufacturer.
  • You will be mailed a copy of the Invoice for the transaction in addition to the digital download.

Digital Delivery: After finalizing your order for this downloadable product you’ll receive an activation key via email. This email will include a product link and directions for downloading. Non-Returnable Item. Download Emailed Globally.

Digital products are delivered via email, and nothing is physically shipped to you. Most products are delivered instantly, and will be marked as "eDelivery or Download" in these cases. Due to the irrevocable nature of digital goods, we are unable to offer returns or refunds for any order.

Software Compatibility: It is your responsibility to ensure a product is compatible with your system. Many products have demo/trial periods available, and system requirements information on the Manufacturer's Website. If you are unsure if a product is compatible with your system, please get in touch with us before purchasing to make sure it will function correctly.

eDelivery / Download Software cannot be returned or refunded once the order has been processed. Please ensure the eDelivery Software item you are ordering will work with your system and is 100% compatible with your setup. Once your order is processed and the activation code is delivered to you via email, there are no cancellations or refunds. If you have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to contact us for verification or support. Boxed software products can only be returned if the software is un-opened and sealed.

Q: How do I place and order?
A: Just click on the products you would like to buy and hit buy. If available you can also make us an offer on an eligible item. Once the product is placed within your shopping cart and all you have to do is fill out your billing and shipping information and pay.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: PayPal is our preferred method of payment, however we accept all major credit cards too.

Q: When will my order ship?
A: We process and ship very fast! Most orders ship same-day if ordered by 3 PM. Items ship Monday through Friday, as there is no carrier pickup on Saturday or Sunday.

Q: Do you offer free shipping?
A: Unless otherwise noted, free shipping is available to customers located in 48 contiguous U.S. States only. We ship using multiple carriers such as UPS, FedEx, USPS and DHL. Scitscat Music reserves the right to ship orders that qualify for Free Shipping through the carrier of our choice.

Q: How can I track my package?
A: Once your order has been shipped tracking information will be sent via email to the email address provided with your order. Emails containing tracking information are usually sent by 6pm EST each day.

Q: Can I change my shipping address after I’ve placed my order?
A: For your security and protection we are only able to ship to the confirmed address listed on your received order and are unable to make any address changes.

Q: Do you offer International Shipping?
A: Yes, we do offer International shipping to almost all locations worldwide for most items! For details and shipping rates please see the shipping tab within the item listing.

Q: Will you mark my item as a "Gift" or declare a lower value?
A: We are unable to report any other value than what was actually paid.

Q: Is Scitscat Music an Authorized Dealer?
A: We are authorized dealers of all the brands that we sell so buy with confidence! We pride ourselves in our customer service and want you to be 100% happy with your purchase!

Q: Can I cancel my order?
A: All requests to cancel must be submitted through eBay and are not guaranteed. If your order has not yet been shipped, we will make every effort to stop your order. If your order has already been shipped, it can no longer be canceled. We will update you within 24 hours of your cancellation request to let you know if your order was able to be stopped.

Q: What Happens if I wasn't able to receive my item and it was returned to the sender?
A: If your item was out for delivery, but unable to be received it will be returned to us. We will refund the order less the shipping fees. If you'd like you can then submit a new order or pay for a re-ship.

Q: Do you offer repairs?
A: Some items, yes, we can help. Please send us a message, include all necessary information and pictures, if possible.

Q: Can I trade my gear in?
A: Yes! Please submit a request via eBay messaging.

Q: Do you offer promotional or discount codes?
A: Yes! We offer 10% off coupon on 95% of our items for Returning Customers within 90 days, please message us with your request.

Q: What is a Demo unit?
A: A Demo unit is an item that has been previously used for demo purposes or a video shoot. It is in 'like new' condition, including a full manufacturer’s warranty.

Q: What is a B-Stock unit?
A: A B-Stock unit is an item that has been returned by a customer with little to no signs of wear and tear. It includes a full manufacturer’s warranty and all original parts/accessories.

Q: What is an Open Box unit?
A: An Open Box unit is an item that may have been used in a store demo, used in a store display case, or loaned out to a customer to try. There is little to no signs of wear and tear. It includes a full manufacturer's warranty and all original parts/accessories.

Q: What does Educational/Academic mean?
A: Educational and Academic products are for Students or Teachers, please attach a photo of your Student/Teacher ID card or Schedule to our eBay Message for purchase. If you are not a Student or a Teacher, you do not qualify for an Academic Discounted purchase.

Q: If I use the Best Offer button, do I receive the Free Accessories included in this bundle listing?
A: Unfortunately, no. Best Offers are offers that are below the price we are asking. If we have free items with Buy It now, then those items are no longer free to best offers. We are unable to lower prices and give free items as well.

Q: Will I receive the exact Free items that are shown in the product gallery image?
A: Please note that pictures of Free Items on listings are intended as a generic representation of the free item(s) offered. Free items will be sent to you based on our current stock at the time of sale. We will substitute like or similar items when necessary to insure that you still get your free item(s) with your purchase.

Q: What is eDelivery/Download mean?
A: Digital products are delivered via email, and nothing is physically shipped to you. Most products are delivered instantly, and will be marked as "eDelivery or Download" in these cases. Due to the irrevocable nature of digital goods, we are unable to offer returns or refunds for any order.

Q: Can I return Software Products?
A: Software whether boxed or Download/eDelivery is non-returnable. Software Compatibility: It is your responsibility to ensure a product is compatible with your system. Many products have demo/trial periods available, and system requirements information on the Manufacturer's Website. If you are unsure if a product is compatible with your system, please get in touch with us before purchasing to make sure it will function correctly.

Q: Do you charge sales tax?
A: Yes, if tax is applicable on your eBay purchase, you'll see this indicated on the listing page and the tax amount will be shown on the checkout page before you pay. We are located in Florida and collect/remit Sales Tax for all Florida transactions. If you are outside of the State of Florida, Sales Tax is collected by eBay.

inkFrog