Since the M-Audio documentation indicates that the line inputs of the 2626 are attenuated and fed through the internal pre-amps, I wouldn't bother getting external analog-output pre-amps, unless you choose a distinctly different coloured tone for a couple of channels. The best route would be to consider external pre-amps that have internal ADCs and S/PDIF or ADAT outputs that the 2626 can pass through unmolested. Try the 2-channel Audient Mico, for example.

Nah, I would be using the 1/4 input on the back that would bypass the preamps. So I would completely bypass the 2626s preamp an go to to its AD converter

Right. Agreed. There's no block diagram that I can see on the M-Audio website or in the 2626 user manual, but I've managed to find the following in the inputs secton of the manual:

The XLR inputs are routed to the preamps whereas the 1/4” line-level inputs bypass the preamps and are not influenced by the Gain Adjustment Knobs.

So that means it's worthwhile trying external analog-output pre-amps connected via the 2626 line inputs.

You may want to consider a Lunchbox enclosure and adding mic preamp modules as you have cash. As to other preamp modules in your range, try to find an Onyx 800R. They are frequently around and have very respectable preamps.

If you are looking for a bump up from that, the used True Precision 8 is often in the $1600-1800 range which is more than you listed but a pair of new PSolo (or PSolo Ribbon) are right in that ball park. These are pretty pristine so if you are looking for color I'd send you back to the lunchbox route.

the presonus eureka channel has been gettin it's use lately around the studio i work at. it's a pretty fun unit, although, there are quite a few knobs crammed into it. Work's well on lead vox tho, using a sennheiser 441, akg 414,u87,c12. the studio owner has some api, neve, and urei gear, and really likes the eureka channel, as he picks it over them on certain performers. this leaves you a decent amount of money leftover to get a used UA tube pre, or an onyx 800r (which i'm purchasing for it's optical connectivity, and nice, nuetral, sound quality). the eureaka allows some flexibilty w/ it's insert points, as the eq, and compressor, are very usable.

I have the Eureka and also like it very much. It is, however, a unit that you will have to work to find the golden setting for your needs. Its easy since the knobs are all detented but it requires a lot of time and experimentation. Well worth the money. Also it has socketted chip sets and lends itself to upgrades internally.

I also highly recommend the True Systems P2 analog pre. Two channels of sweet sounding preamps. Used, around your number.Maybe you can find a used Manley mic pre. It will be the basic one no EQ but awesome sounding. A pair of John Hardy's would also be in this catagory used.....except that very seldom does anyone sell them for any reason! They're that good.

Lunch box.

An alternative to the lunch box if you can solder your own is the Seventh Circle Audio gear; I don't really know of anything else as good value for the price. You get yourself one 8-unit box and a starter preamp for about $900 and then additional channels are under $300.

It's out of your stated price range, but the API 3124 comes in at < $700 per channel, so in that sense it is fairly cheap when compared with preamps of similar quality.

+1 on Seventh Circle Audio. I guess I was using "lunchbox" in a generic fashion since so many folks are making those 500 series modules now, including DAV, True, BLA as well as Neve, API, SSL, etc. I'm just too lazy to go the SCA route :-)

We had a couple of long discussions on 500 series rack units a while back. Check out the archives. My conclusion is that you didn't really start saving money until you had the rack close to full. So I ended up with the 3124+ and the Lengevin DVC.

Seventh Circle are the same idea, but are not interchangeable with 500 series.

Good to know about SCA compatibility. Thanks.

[[url=http://[/URL]="http://www.hamptone…"]Hamptone Home Page[/]="http://www.hamptone…"]Hamptone Home Page[/] No brainer and within your budget Hamptone HVTP2 tube pre amp. I have the tube and the JFET model as well.....both are just incredible. You can get either one in kit form or fully assembled.

DB

Another DIY pre?

Has anyone built or used the Five Fish X-12? I would like a transformered pre for variety sake. Have "clean" ss and tube stuff. Wanna hear that "legendary" LA sound...

I highly recomend the Sebatron VMP-2000. Two channels of class A valve preamps. For about $1,400 it's one of the best value-to-cost deals available. Great connection options (In: XLR, TS, TRS / Out: XLR, TRS), and switching options per channel (Pad: 0/-15/-30db, Hi EQ: flat/bright/air, Lo EQ: flat/cut/boost, phantom pwr, phase invert). Sound is lush and transparent.