Rupert Neve Designs 542 Tape Emulator

Neve Portico 542 Tape Emulator from Rupert Neve Designs is a single-channel 500 series rack module that simulates the sound of analog tape, and adds texture to your audio with its dedicated Silk circuitry. The emulation of tape is achieved with analog hardware, as opposed to digital processing.

The 542 features a “True Tape” circuit, which utilizes an authentic magnetic record head and a replay amplifier, giving the applied audio the warmth of tape compression. Texture can be added by pushing the Silk button, selecting Red or Blue mode, and adjusting a knob. This adds harmonic content that’s reminiscent of vintage Neve equipment.

Tape Effects can be added in by pressing an illuminated button. A Saturation knob enables you to dial in the amount of effects, and a Blend knob lets you mix the pre and post signals. A 15 / 30 IPS button lets you select between the emulations of those two tape-based characteristics.

Two eight-segment LED meters are on the face of the 542, one dedicated to Drive, the other to Level. When your signal hits the yellow LED in the Drive meter, a Soft Clip functionality kicks in, protecting your signal from peaking. A 500-Series power supply/rack is required for operation.

• Single Channel
• True Tape Circuitry
• 15 / 30 IPS Tape Characteristics
• Blend Between Pre and Post Signals
• Red and Blue Silk Circuit Adds Texture
• For 500 Series Racks