The Rupert Neve 517 is a versatile 500 Series module that combines a transformer-coupled mic preamplifier, DI input, one-knob compressor, and Rupert Neve’s signature Silk saturation. Engineered for studio and live applications, the 517 gives engineers and musicians precise control over tone, dynamics, and phase alignment, all in a compact and powerful form factor.
Key Features
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12-Way Precision Gain – Switchable from 0 to 66 dB in 6 dB steps for both Line (0) and Mic inputs.
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Polarity Inversion – Push-button phase invert (Ø) for phase correction.
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Vari-Phase Control – Incrementally rotates phase to align two signals from the same source, perfect for DI and mic blending.
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High-Z DI Input – Front panel TRS input and passive THRU, designed for instruments; continuous gain from 0–30 dB.
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1/4” THRU & INST Jacks – Connect instruments and route signals to amplifiers or additional processors.
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Transformer-Coupled Design – Ensures rich harmonic content and classic Neve warmth.
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Silk Saturation – Add musical harmonic richness to vocals, instruments, or blended DI/mic signals.
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One-Knob Compression – Smooth, transparent dynamics control without complex setup.
Complete Recording Solution in One Module
The 517 is ideal for tracking vocals, electric guitars, bass, or any instrument requiring pristine gain and harmonic character. With DI + mic blending, Vari-Phase, Silk, and onboard compression, this module provides studio-grade versatility while remaining simple to use.
Frequency Response
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Mic Pre, Main Output, no load:
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-0.1 dB @ 10 Hz
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-1 dB @ 120 kHz
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DI Input, Main Output, no load:
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-0.1 dB @ 10 Hz
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-1 dB @ 120 kHz
Noise (Measured at Main Output, unweighted, 22 Hz – 22 kHz, terminated 150 Ω)
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Mic Pre:
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Unity Gain: better than -100 dBu
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Gain @ +66 dB: better than -60.5 dBu
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DI Input:
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Unity Gain: typically better than -100 dBu
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Gain @ +30 dB: typically better than -75 dBu
Input Impedance
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Mic Input: 10 kΩ
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Instrument Input (DI): 1.6 MΩ (3.3 MΩ balanced)
High Pass Filter
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Frequency: 80 Hz
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Slope: 12 dB/Octave, Bessel
Gain
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Mic Pre: Unity to +66 dB in 6 dB steps
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DI Input: Unity to +30 dB continuous
Max Output Level
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+23 dBu from 20 Hz – 40 kHz
THD and Noise
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@ 1 kHz, +20 dBu output: < 0.001% (Main Output)
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@ 20 Hz, +20 dBu output: < 0.002% (Main Output)
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Silk Engaged: Better than 0.2% second harmonic
Vari-Phase
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@ 100 Hz: 2.9° to 57.4°
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@ 1 kHz: 33.5° to 156°
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@ 10 kHz: 149° to -175°
Phantom Power
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+48 V DC ±1% (provided by 500 Series Rack)
Compressor
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Threshold: continuously variable from -20 dBu to +10 dBu
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Ratio: fixed at 2:1
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Attack/Release:
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Fast Mode: Attack 5 ms / Release 50 ms
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Slow Mode: Attack 250 ms / Release 500 ms
Power Requirements
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Supplied by 500 Series Rack
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Current: 110–125 mA @ ±16 V
THD (Additional Measurements)
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Mic Preamp & DI @ 1 kHz, +20 dBu output: < 0.002%
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@ 20 Hz – 20 kHz, +4 dBu output: < 0.02%
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Silk engaged:
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20 Hz, +4 dBu: < 0.5%
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50 Hz, +4 dBu: < 0.1%
