Skip to main content

I'm looking for a stereo (2 channel) preamp. I want to mainly use it for vocals, but also for drum overheads. I'm looking to spend 1,000 to 2,000, and do not care if its used, off ebay, etc. I just want to most I can get for the price I can afford. I'd love a Manley because I have used them in school, but.. thats a couple thousand out of my price range. Any suggestions.

Much Love
Tyler Casket

Topic Tags

Comments

AudioGaff Sat, 05/19/2007 - 23:15

With well over a few dozen very good dual mic pre's that fit within that price range to choose from these days, there are just to many to mention. On top of that, there can be more than one mic pre pre that can work well, so it comes down to personal taste. The only real way to find out what works best for you is to find a way to rent, borrow or buy a few and try them out. Most of the time, I usually like or prefer to use a mic pre with transformers with any type of 414.

anonymous Fri, 05/25/2007 - 10:16

Imago wrote: the presonus ADL 600 is great. Very warm with great presence. You'll dig it.

Be Blessed

I would describe the sound of my ADL 600 as big, clear, natural and lush. I really like it on vocals and acoustic guitar. I know a couple of folks that love it on overheads, which is usually a good test of a mic pres quality.

I like my Great River better for Bass DI and electric guitar cabs.

But that is why I have both!

tifftunes Tue, 06/05/2007 - 04:14

There is always the vintage stuff. I like my mid 60s Ampex 354 twin mic pre. It has tubes, but more importantly, it has transformers. Great sound for less than a grand (probably $400-500, plus any maintenance needed.

For a newer pre in your price range, I also really like my Focusrite ISA 428. No tubes, but it does have iron in and out of 4 preamps.

BRH Tue, 06/05/2007 - 15:45

Yes, I'll second the Focusrite 428, best bang for the buck with the 002r.
$2300 for the 4 good sounding mic pres and ADC card, which allows another 4 line in to your 002 via ADAT. 80db gain on those pres. adjustable input impedance. Really good sounding DI. Lundhal transformers inside.