emu 1212 and cubase

[nashunbooking]

do I need a pre-amp with this card or can you plug in directly? I see the audiodock thing does away with the daughter I/O card, so can you plug in directly with this, or do I need a pre-amp?


the reason I ask is I use it with cubase sx3, and I can record midi fine, but plugging in a microphone...even with a small amp doesn't seem to work.


I have a peavy 5150 guitar head, on the back it says pre amp, is there a way to run directly out of the head and into the emu 1212 card without needing anything else? also if I try this will it blow the card? I am uncertain as I have never used the pre-amp out on the back of the guitar head before.


as far as if I need a pre-amp, is the audiodock the best way to go for the $300 or is there something better that I can use with it already out *the audiodock doesn't get sold seperate from the 1820 till april 15).