Recommend a preamp?

[Ironklad Audio]

2-channel tube pre for just over 200 bucks

...i'd have to give +1 to the MPA gold if you go this route

i scored one in perfect working order on ebay for $220 shipped. they sound pretty good, are flexible as all hell, and will have enough gain to push the SM7.

 

[drewz0r]

Thanks for all the replies! You guys have been very helpful.

It seems some questions popped up in the thread, here are some answers:
-I'm looking for a 2-channel unit. Specifically, the best bang for my buck at $300
-My main uses for the unit will be recording guitar amps (sm57) and vocals (sm7b)
-I'm NOT looking to replace the firepod, but just use a different external preamp

As of right now, it looks like the ART MPA Gold (after tube switching) is my winner. I think the tube warmth is exactly what I'm looking for. Lets keep the recommendations coming!

-Drew

 

[guitar zero]

I changed the tubes in my MPA Gold as well. Put some Ruby tubes in and it sounds much better than the crap ones it came with. I sort of wonder if I really spent some money on really good tubes how it might sound. Oh well, for now it's good enough.

 

[Ironklad Audio]

i'm yet to swap the tubes in mine, but might give it a shot pretty soon. i like it the way it is already, so i figure i won't mess with it if i don't need to...

also, the MPA gold makes a nice addition to any clean/transparent pres you may have. i use it in conjunction with my mackie onyx board, and while it can do the clean thing as well if properly gain-staged, it's also nice to have something with a little more depth and oomph to it if i need it - especially for DI guitars and bass