The 5088 is a modular 16-channel line mixer that provides 8 group busses, 8 auxiliary sends, 4 stereo effects returns and a stereo output buss. That basic functionality of input and output routing, meters and faders provides a solid foundation on which you can build an analogue console to satisfy your own particular requirements, adding, for example, microphone preamplifiers, equalization and dynamics processing from the Portico line of modules, or even more input channels, to suit your facility’s needs.

The 5088 employs the classic, fully discrete analogue architecture for which he is so highly regarded and represents a culmination of his vast analogue circuitry knowledge. Brand new custom, high voltage, discrete op amp cards have been designed especially for the 5088 that eliminate crossover distortion. The new op amp cards offer extended headroom, dynamic range, and frequency response while generating extremely low noise and distortion.

Rupert is a staunch advocate of transformer-based designs. He has included custom-designed transformers on every input and output of the 5088, electrically isolating the console with a true floating ground while also imparting the sweet sound quality of his classic designs.

The modular channel architecture of the 5088 offers a number of advantages. The system’s modularity ensures easy maintenance and repair. It also allows custom configurations to be created with a larger input channel count as well as the addition of Portico signal conditioning and processing modules.

As your studio grows, your 5088 can also grow with the addition of more input channels. If the focus of your work changes over time or your audio systems evolve, you can adapt to meet the new challenges by reconfiguring the console accordingly. The console chassis can even be extended with the addition of two penthouses to accommodate vertically aligned Portico Series modules as well as VU or LED meters.

The essential features of the 5088 have been very carefully thought out so that you don’t have to waste money paying for functionality that you will never use. Instead of adding bells and whistles, Rupert and his team have focused on designing the most direct and sweetest sounding audio paths through a console that integrates seamlessly with the many, many pieces of outboard gear, both new and vintage, that are installed at a typical studio.