The Perfect Match
The V 402 is Neumann’s first-ever stand-alone microphone preamp, although the company has created several generations of top-quality preamp modules 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? All Neumann microphones, classics as well as current models, have highly unique sound characteristics. 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!
Natural Splendor
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 an elaborate development process with extensive series of measurements and critical listening tests to create a preamplifier worthy of the Neumann name. The V 402 retains the original signal in full detail, letting its true colors shine.