Best preamps in these mixers....

[Rdub]

Any ideas on which of these mixers would have the better preamps? How about overall mixer quality? Looking in $500-$1000 price range, 8-16 channels.

Not listed in any particular order:

Mackie
Allen & Heath
StudioMaster
Soundcraft


I appreciate any info/thoughts especially if you've owned them.

 

[Gidge]

Soundcraft will have better pres (and EQ that works well)....sorry Mackie...

disclaimer...this is Gidge's personal preference only.....some will say A&H.....

 

[Doink]

I've had bad experiences with the lower end Soundcrafts (Spirit-Folios).
Smoke, fire, pops, cackles, 600 angry fans waiting for the replacment mixer to arrive....

Studiomaster looks really good on paper, but I have yet to mess with one.
The A&H Mixwizards have a 4 band EQ with 2 sweepable mids, but no subgroups.
The Mackie CR's only have a 3 band EQ, but they do have 4 subgroups.

If it were my money, I'd try the Studiomaster Trilogy.

 

[The Green Hornet]

Yo Rdub a Rub & three men In a Tub:]

Take a look at the MartinSound Mic pre. If you can make the ticket price on the unit, you won't have much to worry about.

Green Hornet


Martinsound.com should get you to their site.

 

[Track Rat]

I have a StudioMaster and I like it. I like the EQ and it's very quiet. Soundcraft has the best pre's on that list, IMHO.