Vintech (Neve clones). Good or Bad?

[jazzed]

I'm interested in purchasing one of the Neve replicas for a strong yet smooth R&B tenor. I need some suggestions and comments concerning these units. Should I buy one or should I look at something else. The mic that I'm using now is an AKG 414 U BLS. If there are suggestions on another mic/mic pre combo, I'm all ears. My budget is around $2500. If necessary, I could probably spend up to $3000, though I prefer to continue to use the 414. Help please.

[soupking]

Depends on who you talk to. Seriously. The Neve clone discussion tends to go very 50/50 from what I've seen.

IMO, Vintech sounds nice.

Also, it depends on what Neve flavor you're going for.

In all, if you're on a tight budget and want a darker, thick, punchy sound. The Dual '72 is right on target. Plus, if you've got $3000, it'll leave you a lot of room for other ideas. However, I have not used it with a 414.

Vintech is also respectable. If you change your mind later on, you won't have a hard time selling it.

Cheers,
-soupking

[electric]

if you want "neve" buy a vintage neve or a reissue. without using myself i would still say the clones (averill,vintech,chandler etc) look like fantastic products. hell go for it and put more $$$ towards a great compressor, mic, or da. otherwise save the dough and get the real thing. i dont think you can really go wrong especially if its your first high end mic pre. any of the above will blow away a cheap pre. i would just make a decision and start recording. good luck.

plus dont sleep on great river, a-designs, phoenix audio, or aurora

[Makinithappen]

The Vintechs are awesome and every freelancer who comes through says how much they love it. I've only used a real Neve a couple of times and can't really comment on how "Neve-Like" they are but they are damn good pres, any way you want to look at it.