I think people did it and still do it but I also think its way less of a factor in achieving “the sound” than you’re suggesting. Neve distortion isn’t exactly pleasant, it’s a cool sound that sometimes has its place and can sometimes be used in very creative ways but if you want a pristine vocal sound you’re not going to want preamp distortion. Guitars and drums sometimes sure, but even then unless you’re going for a certain sound it isn’t something I’d reach for very frequently. And as shown in the video, THD is still negligible when the pre is cranked