Can't decide on Audio Interface and Pre-Amp for Pro Tools MP.

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ju2ef

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I got Pro Tools MP 9, M-Audio Audiophile FireWire, as Pre-Amps I'm using mixer with built in Pre-Amps (Yamaha MG102c), microphone I'm using is Behringer C-1. I know that my gear is bad quality. In september I'm getting some cash and I'll have about 1000 pounds to invest. Could anyone advise on what improvements I could make for that cash. I would record only one vocal at a time so I need something with one input, I was thinking about getting M-Audio Interface with built in Pre-Amp: M-AUDIO - ProFire 610 - High-Definition 6-in/10-out FireWire Audio Interface with Octane Preamp Technology and some good mic for Rap Vocals, maybe some sung vocals too. I was thinking about something similar to SE Z5600A. Would you consider buying this one: M-AUDIO - Luna II - Professional Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone. If you need more details from me give me a shout (sorry for forgetting to include anything I should) :guitar:
Or maybe I should upgrade to Pro Tools 10 and different gear, I don't know.
PS: I was going to link the gear in my post but my account isn't permitted yet
 
Your best bet is probably one of these two.

Pick up a belter preamp with spdif output, like focusrite isa one.
This would go into the spdif input on your current interface, bypassing its analog circuitry.

Or flog your interface for something with decent built in preamps. Maybe a little presonus or something like that?

Honestly, A little presonus audiobox and a decent enough mic will probably make a big improvement.
Look at neumann TLM, higher end audio-technica etc.

Hope that helps.
 
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I'll definitely go for Focusright Pre-Amp, price is ok for me. Thanks a lot. It saves me buying Interface and/or crossgrading Pro Tools. Now I just have to think of a mic. Thanks a lot once more. :listeningmusic:
 
I don't know which one would be better AT4060 or TLM193, or maybe doesn't really make a difference?
 
No probs.
Maybe don't jump straight in though. I've never used that ISA one; It's just an example.

Digital is an option on those, so you'd need to research that.
Line out is an option too, but that means your relying on the conversion in the maudio.
May or may not be a bad thing. Again, ask around.

The TLM 193 I have used. I loved it. It wasn't hyped or exaggerated. I found it to be a very natural microphone that way.
A mic's performance is very much dependant on the source so the only real helpful answer is to go out to stores or a studio and try some mics first hand.
What suits my round, low, uneventful voice, might not work for Alvin the chipmunk.
 
I did a research on ISA and found that you can get digital version on eBay for 500 pounds, reviews about are good. I really don't want to change Pro Tools MP as it was a bargain for me to buy it (32 pounds used), I need to read more more on this pre amp, and I'll be able to test TLM in September once my school will be open, they've got TLM 193 there, however they seem more expensive than Audio Technica, do you think that it'll degrade quality, I really appreciate transparent microphones
 
That's good. Testing is the key.

Test everything you can. Just cos a mic is £150 doesn't mean it won't suit your voice. :)
Try a few dynamics too if you can. If your college have an sm7b/re20/md421, definitely throw that up for a spin.

The ISA and any TLM will be a great chain, but whether it fits your voice is the big question.
 
I did some recording using RE20 and I must tell it's very solid sounding microphone, I also really like the detail of Z5600A SE, my voice however is very frustrating to me (probably because it's my voice), I need to do proper testing in September, unfortunately my school doesn't have SM7 (yet), I read a lot good things about that mic. Maybe I could send you some test recorded mixes so you could have a listen, so you maybe you'd be able to judge it, if you can be bothered, of course.
PS Sorry for grammar, I'm not British.
 
No probs. You speak very well.

Have you used the Z5600A SE on your own voice?


Maybe if you get to testing out mics at college you could post the clips up here.
Don't tell us what which is which until afterwards; That way you'll get a proper objective opinion.
 
I used SE on my and my mates voices, I can post something tomorrow, I got some samples of TLM, Z5600A and RE20 on my hardrive, they were recorded through different Pre-Amps though, some on NEVE some on focus right some on VALVE desk, and I can't really remember which amp was for which vocals, and I think that will impact the judgment, so maybe I'll wait till September then. I can still post them if amps wouldn't be too big issue.
 
Ah well, that's a fantastic start.
If you have clips of the TLM, Z5600A and re20, then that's a pretty good range already.
The preamp will make a difference, but the mic will be the biggest difference you'll hear.

I suppose at that quality level, they'll probably all do a great job, but post up clips if you have them, or just pick your own favourite if you can. :)
 
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