First thing you need to do is read more here, lots to learn gabrieluko... you will begin to understand.

Here is your first question:

what are you plugging a mic into?

Yeah, i know what you mean about reading more here, but I could only find one preamp compared to another... instead of compared to a built in preamp or no preamp at all.
I aaaam plugging in into a DP-01FX (tascam digital portastudio) and recording guitar amp with an SM57.

I ask because my uncle can get me a Presonus Tubepre for 20 Bucks.

ps: thanks for the reply!

gabriel

get the behringer mic200 tube ultragain ... very cheap! i've used this for more than 3 years... sounds warmer .. got tube inside ... can use wit other instrument too... guitar/bass/keyboard etc... ;) ;)