why do I need a mic pre?

Beatles

New member
Really a newb as far as recording goes. I really don't understand what a mic pre does. How important is it really? Does it make a difference if one uses a mic pre for vocals vs. instruments? If anyone can convince me why I should have one, any suggestions what a reasonable mic pre I should buy for entry level??
 
Beatles said:
Really a newb as far as recording goes. I really don't understand what a mic pre does. How important is it really? Does it make a difference if one uses a mic pre for vocals vs. instruments? If anyone can convince me why I should have one, any suggestions what a reasonable mic pre I should buy for entry level??

A preamp boosts the level of the signal up to a level that is suitable for recording (some more expensive preamps can also impart desireable tonal coloration to the sound). Most can also take care of phantom power needs for condenser mics. All microphones require a preamp of some sort to function. However, they come in many forms. If your computer's soundcard has a microphone input (1/8"), it has a preamp in it (no phantom power, though). Almost all mixers have built in preamps, as well. However, the quality of these preamps can vary substantially. The preamp on your soundcard was meant for those little ditzle mikes that you use for gaming and webcasting, not for serious audio recording. Therefore, it will be noisy and generally suck. Cheap mixers are a step up, but again can vary in quality. Separate preamps can be purchased for as little as $40 per channel to several thousands per channel. What you need will be largely dependent on what you want to do from a recording standpoint.
 
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