Helpful ReplyRecommendation for microphone pre-amp?

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SMonahan
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2013/05/31 00:12:33 (permalink)

Recommendation for microphone pre-amp?

Hello All,
 
I'm looking for a recommendation for a microphone pre-amp.  I have two condenser microphones, an MXL V57M, and a MXL 2006.  Both microphones require 48-volt phantom power.  I'd like to get at least a two channel pre-amp to be able to use both at once.  I'll be using them mainly to record acoustic guitar in full band arrangements.  I'm currently using Sonar 6 Home Edition as my DAW.  I don't have an audio card (just using the built in audio on my PC -- I know, I know, it's next on my list), as I use mostly softsynths and have not had need of quality recording of acoustic instruments until now.  I'm willing to spend up to $500 dollars on a good pre-amp for my microphones.  Can anyone make any recommendations?  Let me know if you need more info.
 
Thanks in advance,
Sean
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    RobertB
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/05/31 01:10:49 (permalink) ☄ Helpfulby SMonahan 2013/06/07 21:26:36
    What are your current system specs?
    There are several interfaces available that would serve you well and fit your budget.
    Many have multiple inputs with phantom power. The Focusrite Scarlet series come to mind. You could kill two birds with one stone.
    Also, if you are recording softsynths with live keyboard or e-drum input, a decent interface is a huge plus.
    You have lots of options in your price range.
    My own system (Yamaha MG10/2 mixer handling the front end for an E-MU0404PCI interface) has met my needs nicely, but it is fairly humble by today's standards.

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    57Gregy
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/05/31 23:13:05 (permalink) ☄ Helpfulby SMonahan 2013/06/07 21:26:41
    I agree. For $500 you could get an audio interface with great pre-amps and phantom power already built in. For under $500, even.
    I love my Focusrite Saffire.

    Greg 
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    spacealf
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/06/01 14:56:37 (permalink) ☄ Helpfulby SMonahan 2013/06/07 21:26:51
    I would not use the built-in sound card on any PC because they actually are quite bad, compared to an audio/interface unit. Like for games and such they can be used, but not actually audio recording which is a different use altogether. http://www.sweetwater.com...udio/audio_interfaces/ USB audio devices are about the norm right now, but make sure drivers for the audio/interface exist for your computer hardware and OS and latency is low although ASIO drivers are about the only drivers to use to hear what is recording and what is playing back on tracks already recorded at the same time, or with other drivers (especially Windows drivers - lag will occur.)

     
     
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    spacealf
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/06/01 15:04:59 (permalink) ☄ Helpfulby SMonahan 2013/06/07 21:26:58
    Oh, Sweetwater is just one of several websites on the Internet. Search.

     
     
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    TheBadger
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/06/05 10:42:28 (permalink) ☄ Helpfulby SMonahan 2013/06/07 21:27:03
    Hi,
     
    I am not sure how many inputs you want, but the SM Pro Audio EP84 has 8 inputs with individual phantom power for each input.   It also sells for around $300.   If you are planning to use multiple inputs later on, I would highly recommend this pre-amp.
     
    Cheers,
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    SMonahan
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    Re:Recommendation for microphone pre-amp? 2013/06/07 21:26:14 (permalink)
    Thanks for the suggestions all.  I have a lot to choose from!
     
    As far as my system specs go, I'm in transition.  I have (on the way) a PC which will have a 3rd gen Intel Core i5-3330s processor 2.70 GHz with Turbo Boost 2.0 up to 3.20 GHz, 8GB SDRAM at 1600MHz, running Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit.  I have also decided to upgrade from Sonar 6 Home to Sonar X2 Producer.  I still have not decided on a mic preamp yet, but it never occurred to me to get a preamp/audio interface together.  Thanks for the suggestions.
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