We just lost a legend in Rupert Neve. The original Neve company he founded in the late ’60s (and operated through the mid ’70s) manufactured recording and mixing gear that many artists, engineers and producers swear by and still use today even though some of it has not been properly maintained over the decades.
After launching Focusrite in the mid ’80s and Amek in the mid ’90s, Rupert moved from England to America and founded Rupert Neve Designs where he continued to design innovative recording and mixing tools for the modern era. He finally stopped working this week at 94.
Two days ago, I happened into a room on Clubhouse where some notable engineers and producers were discussing all of this. There weren’t 100 people in there when the General Manager of Rupert Neve Designs (Josh Thomas) had joined the room. He answered questions and generously gave us a history lesson that could only be told by someone who worked with Rupert for roughly 30 years. With Rupert’s far-reaching influence and legacy in mind, Josh’s final statement hit me really hard and I could not have spoken if I wanted to:
“Rupert had a full, long life that was well-lived and the world will forever sound better because he was here.”
Thank you, Mr. Neve. Rest In Peace.
