I'd put in a vote for the DMP3. Clean gain, and it's got a pad and a lo-cut switch, in case the amps are RIDICULOUSLY loud and also way bassier than you thought.

Hi Andrew,

Weren't these DMP3 mic preamps only around $199? Sounds like a way better unit than the Presonus or ART MPs....thanks for the tip! Anyone else comment on the DMP3?

I can't comment on the DMP3 specifically, but the OMNI I/O I have has two preamps from the DMP2... clean, colorless gain. Ridiculously quiet. What goes in, is what comes out. That's the thing with the DMP3... you better get the amp sounding good in the room, the way you want it.... cause the DMP3 ain't going to add anything but just gain.

I think I'm having a brain freeze. DMP sounds like something familiar, but I can't place it. Who makes this line, and/or what does DMP stand for?

m-audio makes it, and I have no idea what DMP stands for....
perhaps Digital Mic Preamp, although that's not entirely true, as there's no converters in it.

Thanks Andrew.

What's really embarassing, is after you responded, I took a look in my closet, and sure enough, I have the DMP2! I used to use it sometimes as a DI for keyboards, but sometimes had trouble with not enough headroom, and eventually drifted to other things, like a couple of Countryman boxes, so I wouldn't have to keep worrying about clipping. I guess that means I've got way too much gear, when I don't even recognize something that I own!!! :D

By the way, just out of curiousity, what is the difference between the DMP2 and DMP3?

yeah, I don't really like them used as a direct box for instruments, but as a good clean mic pre, you can't beat them for the price!