yep the 610 is kinda like a fuzz box but I like the thing. I received one a while ago in trade because the band ran out of funds. I was just going to resell it but ended up keeping it. It does all the catch-word tube stuff, you know makes things sounds "warm", "smooth" and "creamy" I would never use the thing on maybe more than two tracks otherwise you'd end up fighting a hazy and tubby mix. But sometimes it's the perfect touch for a lead vocal, guitar, etc. I ran a mandolin through it the otherday and it sounded fabulous. It's nothing like the fearn unit I have which is very clean and a touch "smooth" I'd say for you on the cheap home recorders a set of sytek pre's and a 610 (both under $1000) would get you up and running well with a good set of contrasting pres. These are the only sub $1000 pre's i'd recomend. (i've yet to try the great river)