Preamp, Instrument Mic, and Vocal Mic Suggestions

[vsideproductions]

I'm primarily looking to get a nice preamp (8 ins with ADAT to use with my 002r), my price range is between $500 - $1500. I realize I can't get anything THAT great for that price, but I'm hoping that I can get the advice for the best one for my money.

I'm also looking for advice/suggestions on acoustic instrument mics (mainly guitar) and a nice vocal mic. Again my price range is around the same. I'd like to get something a bit above average, I know I can't afford professional, but something that would hold me over until I can save up some more.

Here's what I have to work with so far:

- A set of AKG C 1000 S mics
- Shure SM57
- A set of AKG drum mics (not that i think that'll be relavant)
- Behringer TUBE ULTRAGAIN MIC100 Preamp (x2)
- An Apex Wide Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
- I only have the normal plugins that came with the 002r and PTLE 7

I've heard so far that the Behringers are junk, I've heard bad reviews for both my C1000s and my Apex mic...So that's why i've decided just to ask advice here before I continue to (apparently) waste my money.

I appreciate everything,

S. Foster

[2012]

are you planning on tracking live drums / live band ?

[dsetaro]

I just used the Behringer ADA 8000 for two different live recordings (with my 002R) and it worked out great. If I had the money I would get the Focusrite Octopre or the Presonus Digimax instead, but for the money it was great.

[vsideproductions]

I might eventually, but for now just home recordings.

Thanks so far!

[ejwells]

8 Channel preamps with lightpipe are more like "tools" than "nice preamps."
I have a Focusrite Octopre with the digital card. It serves it's purpose of giving me 8 more inputs for drums, but I'd never track vocals or instruments though it. Ever.
The stock Digi 002 pres are as good (better, IMO) as the individual pres in an Octopre, a Digimax, or an Onyx
IMO, you'll still need a good channel strip for vocals and bass, like a UA 6176 (or two).

[kurt]

The stock Digi 002 pres are as good (better, IMO) as the individual pres in an Octopre

Hm, it seems you should sent your Octopre to service.

[ejwells]

Is that how it seems?

IMO means in my OPINION.

What I'm saying is, aside from a tool to get 8 additional inputs, I NEVER use my Octopre.
It's not a high end preamp, in any way, shape, or form.

[2012]

now now, quit slappin' each other.

ejwells is right, and already suggested what i was getting at.

if you're recording yourself, you want a NICE front end, not a $500 for 8 channels pre.

STAYING IN BUDGET (based on the gear you already own) i would suggest a FMR RNP & RNC. this is still budget, mind you. or possibly a groove tubes brick.

if you want a QUALITY pre, then you will want to step up the budget and look at the product lines from Grace, Chandler, API, the various Neve clones, and compressors like the 1176, Distressor, and LA-2A.

you will NOT know what you SHOULD get until you know what sound you're after and you've heard what each one is capable of.

experience is more important than gear.

[vsideproductions]

I'm looking for the extra 8 channels, the FMR RNP & RNC looks nice, but i don't think it offers that. I'm very intregued by the Focusrite Octopre with the digital card, does it come with the digital card though? The UA 6176 looks awesome too! Do you (2012), recommend these as well?

Thanks for all the help so far!

[2012]

why do you need that many inputs ?