Questions about mixers and preamps

[ishou]

Okay, I've narrowed my search for sound-enhancing to getting preamps. I was thinking about getting an Art Tube MP Preamp, but then I realize, I need to record drums! So, looking at mixers, I notice that the Behringer MX802A is in my price range. Now, at such a low cost, I have to wonder: Is this piece of equipment any good? Has anyone used it, and does anyone know what level of quality this equipment has? Will this suit my preamping needs like I think it will(it could always be used live too)? Or, is it garbage, and it's more worth it to purchase one or more ART Tube MP preamps? Thanks, from a very very confused home recorder.

 

[Spider]

well ive never used the art tube preamp , but i have the behringer mixers..not that exact one but the smaller ones and now im using a 16 channel which sounds great..heaps of inputs and outs too..!! i thought there was a bit of a difference between the smaller behringer and this , this is a little warmer i thought .. But im not sure what the 802s are like.. But definetly get an opinion on the preamps before buying ... cos im starting to wonder if preamps may have been a better combo with a pc based setup.. anyway , goodluck ..
spider

 

[charnel]

I have a Behringer board also (the 24-channel Eurodesk),
and I've been very happy with it. I upgraded from a
Mackie 1604, and I'd say the Behringer's EQ is definitely
better and the preamps seem less crispy, which is nice.
However, there's no doubt that if you can afford outboard
preamps, you'll be better off. The ARTs are pretty good,
especially for the price. Also check out Presonus, they've
got a good deal on a 2-channel preamp right now.
Behringer probably has the best bang-for-the-buck these
days with their mixers and rack equipment (great
compressors, noise gates, etc).

 

[kikling]

I got the behringer 802a, its good for simple recording. Average mic preamps. I like it because i record into my computers soundcard and the outputs are stereo, not direct, so i could plug straight into the soundcard.

 

[Spider]

well im using the 2642A and the preamps seem great ... i definetly agree that outboards would be better , but hey the price definetly cuts it ... behringer definetly are great bang for the buck , good value i think.....