recommendation for mic pre <$1.5k?

[heinz]

I'm really focused on getting the hugest most devestating high-gain guitar sounds possible out of my modest setup. I've found the best possible guitar/amp setup, and have done extensive recording with it using my itty bitty sm57/alesis 12R mixer rig.

So I've been saving my $$ and have auditioned many mics for this effort, and have found myself liking the Royer R-121 the best for this purpose. It just kills (at least my ears think so).

Next I need a great pre, and my budget is around $1500.

Has anyone had experience with the Focusrite ISA 220? This unit seems to have many features I desire, instrument inputs (sounds like a good ticket for direct bass), and upgradeable A/D converter.

But it's so new, I can't find anyone using it for me to check out, and I'm reticent to buy gear I haven't personally heard. Anybody got a recommendation for this unit or any other considering the price range? I also realize that the Royer mic needs a great gain stage.

Thanks-

 

[shadowfax]

i have no idea if this suits your purpose or not, but any time i've asked this question i've been told to check out brent averill's vintage stuff. again i dont know much about this thing, but everything i've read on RAP says its killer, and it's certainly got my interest for when i'll be in the market towards christmas: http://www.brentaverill.com/#apipres

 

[knownuttin]

As you've settled on the Royer for your mic, great choice BTW, you're going to need a lot of clean gain because of the low output ribbon mics have. Keep this in mind as you shop. If at all possible, try a unit with the mic before you buy. Many fine pres may not perform well with a ribbon.

Some to investigate might be Great River, John Hardy and Grace. There are plenty of good pres, but you have a specific application. You don't just want good. You want good for something you've already chosen. Be very picky.
-kent

 

[bebopdeluxe]

Just got the Grace 101 as part of my upgraded vocals/acoustic guitar signal chain (along with a Studio Projects C1 and a RNC). Truly an outstanding upgrade to my signal chain for $550. If you only need one channel of quality mic-pre, I would definitely consider the Grace.

 

[Wil Davis]

You could get a pair of HHB Radius 40s and still have change from $1500.

- Wil

 

[heinz]

All very good suggestions guys, thanks a bunch! If anyone still has suggestions, don't hesitate. And I would still love to hear from anyone with experience with the ISA 220.

 

[Middleman]

bebopdeluxe

Just wondered if you did a comparison on the Grace against the DMP3 from MAudio. I was thinking of stepping up to the grace if there is a drastic difference. Thanks.

 

[Michael Jones]

I second Brent Averril's stuff.
I use this pre-amp of his and an RCA 77DX (among others), which is a ribbon mic, and it has plenty of clean gain to drive it.

From what I understand, the Royer 121's are real nice ribbon mics, be gentle with them though, they are ribbons after all. Wish I had a pair.

 

[littledog]

I've got a 121 also, and I'm still looking for the ideal pre. I'd really like to try a pre with the variable loading option like the Avalon or the VIPRE, but we're talking over 2 Grand for those.

Has anyone tried the Universal Audio pre with the Royer? That might be a more affordable solution.

 

[heinz]

I talked with a dealer yesterday who told me that the Focusrite ISA 220 was a cheap Chinese-made knockoff of the 430. Hmmm maybe he was just steering me towards the 430 but so far that's all I've heard about it.