Yikes! Do I still need a mic pre?

[cyberslayer]

Trying to setup a dual-purpose rig for podcast and music
I'm a noob at this stage so am looking for input on how to augment when I have listed below --- if I need anything further?


Got rid of dbx 286s and picked up dbx 266xs thinking that I could do the "same" (or at least similar) to what the 286s did. NOT! Was thinking the mixer built-in pre's would be enough but my level on both the RE20 and 835 are very low. Went thru gain staging (as best i could).

Podcast stuff: RE20, Senheiser e835, Behr X1204USB <-- i'm not using the USB to computer. Recording direct to H6
Zoom H6, BehrHA400, Rokit6 monitors,Windows 10

Currently connected as follows:
RE20---mixer---dbx266---mixer---headphones / monitors

1. Is this connectd properly?
2. Is it best to connect using Y-cable (TRS - TS 1/4 inch)?
3. What mic pre's would be good (without breaking the bank, that is)?

Thanks for your input.

T

 

[bluesfordan]

the 286 had a pre amp, the 266 does not.

may I ask why you swapped them out? were you dissatisfied with the 286?

 

[arcaxis]

The mixer has preamps for the mics. How are you connecting the dbx266 (through what jacks)?
Had you tried the compression on the mixer without connecting the dbx266?