Like a lot of audio gear, some people like them and some people don't. It has it's own sound/vibe. I like it but not really love it. I much prefer it when it is used with a LA2A or 1176 or better yet the UA 6176 model which I do love.

For true tube color and warmth I much prefer my ViPre or a DW Fearn than what the 610 mic pre does.

Thanks.
I had never heard of the vipre or DW fearn but after doing a bit of net research they do look good. Good reviews.

Unfortunately, they are way out of my spending budget.
I am looking at some around $1300/£650

Any other advice on preamps for $1300 or £650 and below.
I only have a few days left and need to make a decision soon.

You may want to look at the ADL 600 or Manley tube mic pre. If they don't float your boat and your you are still set on a tube mic pre, then save your money until you can afford one of the good ones.

Thanks for the advice.
Cant really stretch financial to those two pre's

Could maybe just afford a Great River ME-1NV or
SSL XLogic Alpha Channel

Anyone use this pre ?
How is it ? mainlyto be used on Acoustic and Vox and to add a bit of flavour/colour

Been using the UA-610 for about a year now. I LOVE IT!!! It definitely adds some tube color...BUT the color that it adds helps in detracting the sterile environment that the digital world can sometimes have.

-Kyle

The Great river would get my vote. It has the iron for the sound.

For the tubes and iron sounds, vintage preamps are great! The Ampex 351 would be my recommendation (354 if you need twins). The only drawback is no phantom power. So you'd need to set that up separately, or use dynamic or ribbon mics. These vintage pres are less $$$ than the new "booteek" pres. But the prices are increasing rapidly! The time to get one is at hand...