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Crest Performance ST-2 dual mic preamp/channel strip

I wasn't sure whether to post this under proaudio or budget gear. The only information I have been able to find is the usual commercial promo- information. Critiques by experts or actual users seem to be elusive. In my search, however, I did find this forum. Hopefully someone here can provide first hand information regarding their experience with this unit.

Firebox or Inspire as standalone mic preamp?

I'm trying to decide between a PreSonus Firebox or Inspire as my interface for my fledgling DAW. One thing I can't figure out is if either could double as a standalone mic preamp that I could hook up to my Iriver IFP 895. I know there are more practical/portable preamps for this purpose, but it will be awhile before I can justify another purchase.

Mic preamps. are they needed?

ive got the fostex mr-8, which comes with two built in mic preamps. i run a Shure sm-57 and some other cheap Audio-Technica mic through a Behringer eq and then right into the recorder. recently ive noticed that when i record clean guitars, mostly acoustics, i cannot get enough volume. i turn the eq all the way up and turn the preamp up as much as i can before the noise takes over.