Neumann V 402 2-Channel Preamplifier

The V 402 is Neumann’s newest microphone preamp since the launch of the legendary V 476b in the 1980s, which is still widely used and highly regarded in many professional studios. As technology has since advanced, Neumann has continued the quest to create the top-performing 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 nor detracts. Perfection
cannot be perfected!

The Neumann V 402 is designed for the highest degree of linearity and sonic purity. It amplifies the microphone signal without unwanted coloration or sonic artifacts, such as noise and distortion. These days even inexpensive preamps claim to be “linear” and “neutral” but they often lack finesse and sonic detail; the output signal appears “dull” and “grey”, especially at higher gain settings. It took meticulous engineering, rigorous measurements, and elaborate listening tests to create a preamplifier that is worthy of the Neumann name. The V 402 retains the original signal in full detail, letting its true
colors shine.

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.

Key Features

• Two-channel state-of-the-art transformerless microphone preamp
• Two studio-quality instrument inputs with very high impedance
• Switchable low-cut removes rumble without signal degradation
• Exceptionally clean headphone amplifier
• Easy monitoring mix with volume control for each channel
• Handmade in Germany

Technical Specifications

Frequency Range
<10 Hz to >100 kHz (-3 dB@ 40 dB Gain)
Mains Power Supply: Input Voltage; frequency
100-120 V and 220-240 V; 50 Hz/60 Hz
Power Consumption
max. 25 W
Ground Lift
switchable on/off
Microphone Inputs: Connector
2 x XLR 3 F
Microphone Inputs: Input Impedance
approx. 3 k Ohm
Microphone Inputs: Minimum Gain
+20 dB (PAD off)
Microphone Inputs: Maximum Gain
+60 dB (PAD off)
Microphone Inputs: Attenuation PAD switchable
off/-20 dB
Microphone Inputs: Maximum Input Level (PAD off)
+8 dBu
Microphone Inputs: Maximum Input Level (PAD on)
+28 dBu
Power Supply (P48, IEC 61938)
48 V, max. >= 10 mA, switchable on/off
Hi-Z Inputs: Active
switchable on/off
Hi-Z Inputs: Connector
2 x Jack 6.3 mm (1/4”), mono, unbalanced (front)
Hi-Z Inputs: Input Impedance
3.3 M Ohm
Hi-Z Inputs: Maximum Input Level
+21 dBu
Hi-Z Inputs: Minimum Gain
0 dB (PAD off)
Hi-Z Inputs: Maximum Gain
+40 dB (PAD off)
Bargraphs per Channel
-24 dBu to +24 dBu in 6 dB steps
Bargraphs Peak Hold
indication @ +24 dBu (hold time approx. 3 sec.)
Headphone Output: Mono/Stereo
switchable
Headphone Output: Connector
jack 6.3 mm (1/4”), stereo (front)
Headphone Output: Volume Control
for left & right channel + Master
Headphone Output: Output Impedance
approx. 2 Ohm
Headphone Output: Maximum Output Level
+20 dBu into 150 Ohm load impedance
Outputs: Connector
2 x XLR 3 M
Outputs: Output Impedance
approx. 200 Ohm
Outputs: Maximum Output Level
+26 dBu into 1 k Ohm load impedance
High Pass Filter
60 Hz, 12 dB/oct, switchable on /off
Product Dimensions (height x width x depth)
89mm x 483 mm x 242 mm
Weight
6.2 kg
Operating Conditions
0°C to +50°C; < 75% RH@ +40°C; non-condensing
Transport/Storage Conditions
-25°C to +70°C; < 95% RH; non-condensing
Working Altitude
< 2000 m