Using different preamps in series

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Spaceduck
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2009/07/28 12:17:20 (permalink)

Using different preamps in series

Suppose you have 2 or more preamps which each add a distinct colour to the source. Is it ok to use them both at the same time? If so, how would you set them... gain equally divided between the two, or would you use one for gain while the other is set at unity? Or does it make a difference?

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    The Maillard Reaction
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    Re:Using different preamps in series 2009/07/28 12:28:04 (permalink)
    For starters if one had a line input and the other didn't... I'd use the one with the line input second.

    You  might also try pads in between them.

    Gain staging may be really touchy.

    I'm considering doing this with my new Universal Audio LA-610s as I really like the sound of the compressor but there's an always there sometimes cool distortion if I have suitable overall output levels.

    I'm considering driving the 610 into the line input of one of my other amps... (or maybe the other way around) so I can run the 610 where it's a little cleaner and then use something else to bump up the level.

    Just try stuff and be ready to roll the knobs down in an instant to protect your monitors.

    best,
    mike
    post edited by mike_mccue - 2009/07/28 12:45:34


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    batsbrew
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    Re:Using different preamps in series 2009/07/28 12:36:24 (permalink)
    THE ONLY REAL DRAWBACK, imho, would be as mike said, gain staging, and preamping NOISE.

    but, it's like everything else, experimentation often leads to very cool things, so go for it.....


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    Spaceduck
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    Re:Using different preamps in series 2009/07/28 13:26:44 (permalink)
    Noise aha I didn't think of that. So maybe I should drive them both as hard as possible so I can get the highest S/N ratio? Great suggestion about the pads... there's a 20dB pad on the mic, another on preamp #1 and a third on preamp #2. So with -60dB attenuation I should be ok to bump the gains up.
     
    Mike, you're right on about the glorious 610. That's what this is all about. I love the warmth of the 610 but I also want the grit of my Groove Tubes MP1, so rather than compromise on either... use both?
     
    I'll definitely do some experimenting & report back. But it's good to know it won't disrupt the space-time continuum or anything!

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    jimmyman
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    Re:Using different preamps in series 2009/07/28 17:23:13 (permalink)
     
    ive done that before. i didnt have any noise or gain staging problems (that i noticed). it was (tube pre1) (comp)  (eq)
    (tube pre2)
     
    the reason for doing so was to drive the gain as high as
    posible without noticable distortion and use the tubes
    for "softening" the peaks or comping if you will. 
     
     i dont do that now but it was fun to try it
     
      

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