dolecek1 said:
i have a behringer ub1222 mixer, what would an external pre do for me? and any reccomendations on a budget pre?
I think you got some good recommendations in your last thread:
https://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=149144
The preamp amplifies the signal from your microphone for recording. The behri pres function, but generally don't sound very good (my experience was they were dull and did not supply enough gain; others describe them as harsh and noisy). Upgrading will get you more gain with less noise, and a "bigger/more open" sound. Granted, those are buzzwords and your experience may vary. I would generally recommend any of the following budget preamps:
M-Audio DMP3, 2-channels ($160)
Rane MS-1B, 1-channel ($150)
Studio Projects VTB-1, 1 channel ($130)
For a bit more change, you can get nice mid-priced preamps, such as:
Groove Tubes The Brick, 1-channel ($400)
FMR Audio Really Nice Pre (RNP), 2-channels ($475)
The so-called "pro" quality preamps generally go for >$1000 per channel. You can lust after them later. First, learn the ins and outs of recording with what you have and your ears will tell you when it is time to upgrade.