Neumann
Neumann V 402 2-Channel Mic Preamp
Best pristine audio capture for professional recording studios.
The Neumann V 402 is a 2-channel microphone preamplifier designed for sonic perfection, building on the legacy of Neumann's legendary studio equipment. It amplifies microphone signals with exceptional linearity and purity, preserving the integrity of the sound without adding coloration or artifacts. The V 402 also features DI inputs for instruments like guitars and basses, ensuring a brilliant sound with no audible noise. It includes a switchable 20 dB pad for high-level sources and a carefully designed high-pass filter to reduce pops and rumble. A studio-grade headphone amplifier with independent volume controls allows for easy monitoring during recording.
$3095.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
44
/ 565
#44 in Microphone Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+91%
Above average
Channels
2
Who it's for
- Audio engineers and musicians demanding uncolored, high-fidelity sound reproduction
- Recording professionals seeking dependable, long-term studio equipment investments
- Studio musicians and producers needing flexible input and monitoring solutions
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious home studio owners or emerging artists
- Producers desiring preamps that add distinct vintage or modern tonal flavors
- Engineers expecting comprehensive channel strip functionality from a high-end unit
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Delivers an incredibly clean signal path that honors the source audio.
Build Integrity
Robust construction meets the high standards expected of legendary studio gear.
DI Versatility
Instrument inputs capture brilliant, noise-free detail for guitars and basses.
Monitoring Utility
Integrated headphone amp provides convenient, high-fidelity monitoring for direct recording.
Signal Control
Essential pad and filter options offer precise management of high-level sources.
Workflow Efficiency
Intuitive layout simplifies signal routing for fast, professional studio sessions.
Key Specs
Channels
2
Input Pad
20 dB
High-Pass Filter
Yes
Instrument DI Inputs
Yes
Headphone Output
Yes
Analog Input Connector Type
XLR, TRS
Analog Output Connector Type
XLR, TRS
Features
- Exceptional linearity and sonic purity
- Preserves original signal integrity
- High-quality DI inputs for instruments
- Switchable 20 dB pad for high-level sources
- High-pass filter for rumble reduction
- Studio-grade headphone amplifier
- Independent headphone volume controls
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Neumann V 402 for its exceptional audio quality and transparent sound. Users highlight its ability to capture intricate details with remarkable clarity, making it a top choice for critical recording applications. The build quality is frequently noted as robust and professional, ensuring reliability in demanding studio environments. Its straightforward operation further enhances its appeal, allowing engineers to focus on performance rather than complex settings. This preamp delivers a pristine signal path, upholding Neumann's reputation for sonic excellence.
Know before you buy
The V 402 is designed for absolute transparency. It prioritizes linearity and purity, meaning it amplifies your signal without adding the harmonic distortion or 'color' often found in vintage-style preamps.
Yes. The unit features high-quality DI inputs specifically designed for instruments, allowing you to record guitars and basses directly with exceptional clarity and no audible noise.
The studio-grade headphone amplifier is built into the unit for direct monitoring. While it provides high-quality playback, ensure your signal path is set up correctly within your interface or console to maintain the lowest possible latency.
The 20 dB pad is essential when recording high-level sources, such as loud drums or powerful vocalists, that might otherwise overload the preamp's input stage. Engaging it prevents unwanted clipping and distortion.
Yes, the high-pass filter is carefully calibrated to reduce low-frequency rumble, handling issues like stage vibrations or proximity effect 'pops' before they reach your recording medium.
Yes, the V 402 is equipped with both XLR and TRS connectors for its inputs and outputs, offering flexible integration with a wide range of professional studio gear.
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