A decent under-$200, 2-channel mic preamp?

  • Thread starter Thread starter jeffree
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J

jeffree

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Hi, all. I'll soon be in the market for a 2-channel mic pre, with a price that's in line with my little home studio set-up, including a Yamaha aw16g and SP B-1 mics. I use a local pro studio for more serious recordings, so I want to keep my home studio cheap but useable. My home recordings sound surprisingly clean, which may be a spillover from my pro studio efforts--my point is that I really do appreciate rather small differences in sound.

I'll add that since I record mostly direct-in (no mics), I'll only be using this pre only with my SP B-1 mics for acoustic guitars and other stringed instruments.

I've searched this site and find some general concensus that the M-Audio DMP-3 would be my best bet. I've also found that most folks here aren't impressed by the *tube* pres at this price point. Do you agree?

My questions today for those wiser than me:

* Is there anything else, besides the M-Audio, in the sub-$200 preamps (2-channel) that I should take time to audition in my home before deciding?

* And is there a new *tube* pre in this price range that's worth a listen? I wouldn't mind the warmth, but are all cheap tubies a disappointment?

I often buy 2-3 models and then test them at home before deciding, so I'm really trying to narrow my focus and initial purchases with your help.

Thanks for any wisdom,

J.
 
At that price point, for 2 channels, M-Audio DMP-3 is about the only game in town.-Richie
 
I have had success with Behringer T1953 Tube Ultragain, dual channels, independent switchable phantom pwr. rack mountable, and nifty color. very clean. heh. at least for me. Oh and its dead on $200US. You could also try getting 2 Presonus TUBEPre if you dont care about rack, they are about $99US. Good luck.
 
Also Symetrix SX202 or SX-202 for a good clean dual pre.
Only available used nowadays.

These can also be modded by Jim Williams at www.audioupgrades.com for
hot rodded performance later, if you wish.
Then they will sound superior to the DMP3.
IIRC it's around $175 per channel for this mod now.

Chris
 
2 pre's under $200

Jeffree,

You might want to look at our new P-4 Two of Ted Fletcher's preamps with a nice limiter under $200.
 
Richie, Pentus, Tim, Chess, Paul...

Thanks much for your helpful ideas.

My best to you and yours,

J.
 
You wouldn't need an extra P-4 beta tester, wouldja per chance?.. :D
 
I'd suggest a used Symetrix sx202... about $130 on eBay these days... Mods are additional, but not required... as posted several hundred times before, stay away from the cheap tube preamps... unless you like that sound for effect...
 
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