The Portico II Master Buss Processor (MBP) is Rupert Neve Designs’ flagship dynamics processor, delivering unparalleled compression, limiting, stereo field control, and harmonic saturation for mixing, mastering, tracking, and live sound. Built on the high-voltage, discrete, Class-A signal paths of the legendary 5088 console, the MBP redefines what’s possible for a 2-buss processor.
Key Features
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Compressor Section
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Threshold: 31-detent control (-30 to +20 dB)
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Ratio: 31-detent control (1:1 to 40:1)
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Attack/Release: 31-detent controls for precise envelope shaping (20ms–75ms / 100ms–2.5s)
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Gain: Variable (-6 to +20 dB) for makeup gain or output ceiling
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Blend: 31-detent control for parallel compression
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Comp In/Bypass All: Illuminated push buttons for easy engagement
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FF/FB Modes: Feed-forward for modern punch, feedback for classic smoothness
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S/C HPF: 125Hz, 12dB/octave filter to tighten low-end compression
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RMS/Peak Detection: Choose smooth RMS or fast peak response
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Link: Master/slave side-chain linking for stereo sources
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Limiter Section
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Limit Threshold: 31-detent control for soft-clip limiting
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Compound Active Release for musical, transparent limiting
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Stereo Field Editor (SFE)
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Depth & Width Controls: 31-detent adjustments for mid/side information
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Depth & Width EQ: 4-position rotary filters for frequency-targeted M/S processing
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SFE to Comp: Routes mid and side info to compressor paths for dynamic M/S control
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Silk & Texture Circuitry
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Silk Modes: Red for high-frequency sparkle, Blue for low-end weight
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Texture: 31-detent control to fine-tune harmonic saturation
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Additional Features
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Side Chain Send/Return: TRS jacks for external side-chain processing
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Gain Reduction & Output Meters: 16-segment LED bar-graphs for precision monitoring
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Internal Universal Power Supply: 100–240V worldwide compatibility
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Premium Build: 2U rackmount chassis with Rupert Neve’s high-voltage discrete topologies
Why It Stands Out
The Portico II MBP goes far beyond traditional bus compression. Its dual compressor sections, intelligent limiter, and SFE unlock creative dynamics shaping and stereo imaging possibilities unmatched by standard processors. The Silk/Texture controls and Rupert Neve’s custom transformers deliver authentic vintage warmth or pristine clarity—perfect for mastering engineers, mix engineers, and live sound pros. Whether you’re gluing together a pop mix, adding punch to EDM, or gently enhancing a classical recording, the MBP ensures your final output is musical, powerful, and three-dimensional.
Frequency Response (Unloaded)
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5 Hz to 100 kHz: ±0.5 dB typical
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120 kHz: -3 dB typical
Maximum Output Level (Unloaded)
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20 Hz to 40 kHz: +25 dBu typical
THD and Noise
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@ 1 kHz, +20 dBu: <0.003% typical
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@ 20 Hz, +20 dBu: <0.10% typical
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@ 20 kHz, +20 dBu: <0.010% typical
Compressor
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Threshold: -30 dBu to +20 dBu
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Ratio: 1.1:1 to 40:1
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Blend: 0% to 100% (Compressor)
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Gain: 0 dB to +20 dB
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Attack: 20 ms to 80 ms
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Release: 100 ms to 3.0 s
Power
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AC Power Consumption: 85 W max.
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Fuse: 5 × 20 mm Bussman type GDA 2.5A, Fast Acting, Ceramic
Dimensions (HxWxD)