Lots of stuff is crap, lots of stuff is okay, nothing is great.
I have an ADA8000 8-channel pre with a digital out. It's actually really nice sounding. It's cleaner than any pre I've used (which is VERY little, so salt grains are in order). BUT, for $230, it's 8-channels and it has ADAT lightpipe output, which is crucial. I think it's some of the greatest bang-for-the-buck ever. Sure, the M-Audio Octane 8 probably sounds cleaner and better, and it's not a Grace or RNP or whatever, but for the crap I do in my basement, it is a lifesaver.
There's a big difference between a home-recording hobbyist and an aspiring recording engineer. I'm in-between the two, but sometimes cheap gear has its place. If I were charging people and trying to make a name for myself, I would probably invest in better gear, but if there was a 16-year-old who wanted some recording gear and he has to scrape and save, more power to him.
I have an ADA8000 8-channel pre with a digital out. It's actually really nice sounding. It's cleaner than any pre I've used (which is VERY little, so salt grains are in order). BUT, for $230, it's 8-channels and it has ADAT lightpipe output, which is crucial. I think it's some of the greatest bang-for-the-buck ever. Sure, the M-Audio Octane 8 probably sounds cleaner and better, and it's not a Grace or RNP or whatever, but for the crap I do in my basement, it is a lifesaver.
There's a big difference between a home-recording hobbyist and an aspiring recording engineer. I'm in-between the two, but sometimes cheap gear has its place. If I were charging people and trying to make a name for myself, I would probably invest in better gear, but if there was a 16-year-old who wanted some recording gear and he has to scrape and save, more power to him.