The Neve 88RS channel strip has been designed to capture the vibe and mojo of the original large-format Neve analog console design and workflow with an end to end circuit emulation of the original hardware. 

In this free video tutorial, brought to you with the support of Universal Audio, I have captured a simple jazz drum set recording solely with a pair of inexpensive Rode small-diaphragm condenser overhead mics. A single stereo instance of the Neve 88RS channel strip is used to bring out the best qualities of the kit, and get a beautifully balanced blend. All with just two simple overhead microphones. 

The drums were recorded “clean,” with no outboard processing. A small amount of input gain at the top of the channel strip is used to boost the level coming into the plug-in. The channel strip’s compressor is used sparingly, taking advantage of the Neve automatic triple time constant release mode. 

The four band EQs are each used to bring out and enhance different areas of the frequency spectrum. Finally, the fader throw is used to introduce some Neve colour and saturation; as the passive output gain is attenuated to compensate. The result is a surprisingly lively, colourful recording with lots of personality, recorded with just two overhead microphones.