Neumann
Neumann V 402
Best transparent amplification for professional studio recording.
The Neumann V 402 is Neumann’s first-ever standalone microphone preamp, built in the tradition of the top-quality preamp modules Neumann has created for its mixing consoles such as the now legendary V 476 B of the 1980s. Technology, of course, has moved on. Yet the fundamental question remains: what would be the perfect preamp for Neumann and other high-quality studio microphones? Neumann microphones, current or vintage, have always been engineered for sonic perfection. The V 402 preamplifier is thus designed to preserve the integrity of the microphone’s sound image. At any gain setting, it neither adds or detracts. Perfection cannot be perfected! The DI inputs, too, are designed for sonic purity and will capture the sound of electric guitars and bass guitars as well as other instruments without coloration or loss of detail. Sophisticated circuitry and a very high input impedance ensure a brilliant sound with no audible noise. A switchable 20 dB pad allows the V 402 to be used with high-level sources up to 28 dBu without distortion. The high pass function is carefully designed to remove pops and rumble without signal degradation. For easy monitoring, the V 402 is equipped with a studio-grade headphone amplifier ensuring superb monitoring quality at the recording stage. Independent volume controls for each channel allow you to dial in a monitoring mix without affecting the recorded signal.
$2299.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
44
/ 565
#44 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+42%
Above average
Channels
Dual-Channel
/ Dual-Channel
Who it's for
- Audio professionals demanding pristine, accurate sound reproduction for critical recordings.
- Recording artists requiring clear, direct monitoring during tracking sessions.
- Professional studios seeking durable, dependable equipment for demanding daily use.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious musicians or home studio owners seeking affordable preamplification solutions.
- Users needing an all-in-one audio interface with diverse connectivity options.
- Engineers desiring preamps that impart a specific sonic character or warmth.
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Delivers an uncolored, clinical signal path that preserves every microphone nuance.
Build Integrity
Handmade German engineering ensures long-term reliability in demanding studio environments.
DI Performance
High-impedance inputs capture instrument detail with exceptional clarity and zero noise.
Monitoring Versatility
Integrated headphone amplifier provides professional-grade monitoring directly at the source.
Gain Flexibility
Switchable pads handle high-output sources without introducing unwanted distortion.
Signal Purity
Sophisticated circuitry maintains a pristine noise floor across all gain settings.
Key Specs
Channels
Dual-Channel
Chassis
19-inch Rack-Mount
Rack Spaces
2U
Input Connectors
1/4-inch TRS, Analog XLR
Output Connectors
Analog XLR
Input Pad
Switchable 20 dB
High Pass Filter
Yes
Headphone Output
Studio quality
Features
- Perfect complement to all Neumann microphones
- Fully transparent sound without unwanted coloration
- DI inputs with high impedance for brilliant sound
- Studio quality headphone amplifier for precise monitoring
- Handmade in Germany
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Neumann V 402 for its exceptional audio fidelity and pristine sound reproduction. Users frequently highlight its transparent and uncolored amplification, which allows microphones to shine with remarkable clarity and depth. The build quality is also a recurring theme, described as robust and professional grade, ensuring reliability in demanding studio environments. While a premium investment, many consider its sonic performance and dependable construction to justify the cost, viewing it as a cornerstone for serious audio production. Its straightforward operation further enhances its appeal, making it a highly respected piece of equipment.
Know before you buy
The V 402 is designed for complete transparency. It is engineered to preserve the original sound image of your microphone without adding or subtracting any coloration, regardless of the gain setting.
Yes, the unit features high-impedance DI inputs specifically designed for instruments. These inputs ensure your guitar or bass is captured with high detail and no audible noise.
The studio-grade headphone amplifier allows you to monitor your signal directly from the preamp with high fidelity. It includes independent volume controls for each channel, letting you create a custom monitoring mix without impacting the signal being sent to your recording interface.
Yes, the preamp includes a switchable 20 dB pad. This allows you to handle high-level sources up to 28 dBu without introducing distortion.
The high-pass filter is carefully engineered to remove low-end rumble and pops while maintaining signal integrity. It is designed to clean up your recording without degrading the overall sound quality.
The V 402 is a dual-channel unit housed in a standard 19-inch rack-mount chassis. It occupies 2U of rack space.
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