DO i need a preamp?

[tthcore]

Right now i have the mobile Pre USB. I'm saving some $$$ for an Mbox , do i need a preamp? Or am i basically buying the same thing twice?

 

[Carter]

Same thing twice!

 

[TimOBrien]

Ever actually >>read<< the catalog descriptions???:

"Comprised of a small, upright I/O unit and featuring 2 Focusrite mic preamps,"

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=home/search/detail/base_pid/240475/

 

[tthcore]

I do understand that. I'm having trouble getting the "warmth" i'd like out of my vocals and guitar. I thought maybe a preamp in the chain would help fatten it up a little bit.

 

[thane1200]

I do understand that. I'm having trouble getting the "warmth" i'd like out of my vocals and guitar.

Try wrapping your mic in a heating blanket. (sorry, couldn't resist)

 

[IronFlippy]

I do understand that. I'm having trouble getting the "warmth" i'd like out of my vocals and guitar. I thought maybe a preamp in the chain would help fatten it up a little bit.

Warmth? Digital? yea, right.

Seriously though, if you want a less digital sounding solution, you're going to have to lay down the big bucks for a good tube pre-amp, a souncard with good A/D/A converters, a good tube mic, and maybe some other equipment. On top of all that, and most importantly, is being able to use the equipment properly.

 

[XLR]

If you're getting a warm sound from the source, and it sounds that way in the room, and you're capturing it with a suitable mic, the stock preamp in your MobilePre, or the like, won't make it "not warm". Personally I think it's more effective to work to get the basics right instead of looking for a magic box. Warmth comes from every aspect of the recording chain and source, not from a single piece of gear, and not from tubes. Just my opinion.

Tim

 

[Farview]

Seriously though, if you want a less digital sounding solution, you're going to have to lay down the big bucks for a good tube pre-amp, a sound card with good A/D/A converters, a good tube mic, and maybe some other equipment.

This is not even close to being true. Good solid state has just as much chance of being 'warm' as any tube preamp or mic.

All of the most sought after preamps are solid state. Neve, Trident, API, Avalon, Great River, etc... are all Solid state. Same thing with mics, U87, 414, etc... all solid state.

Cheap gear lacks warmth...Period.


If you are not getting the sound you want out of your setup, it is most likely the source or the mic, not your preamp.

 

[tthcore]

alright! well hey, i'm, still using the mobile pre usb. I have a J45 Rosewood that sounds warm and full in my room. I record with a Maudio Nova COnd. mic. I put it at the 12th fret about 6 inches away. It comes in good, but still a little weak and tinny. Is it the mic?

 

[Farview]

alright! well hey, i'm, still using the mobile pre usb. I have a J45 Rosewood that sounds warm and full in my room. I record with a Maudio Nova COnd. mic. I put it at the 12th fret about 6 inches away. It comes in good, but still a little weak and tinny. Is it the mic?

It is the mic. With M-Audio, the Solaras and the Luna are good, the Nova sucks.