PreAmp in Chain (A/Bing different setups)

[guiroo]

Generally I'm a purist. (Source > PreAmp w/ lite Compression > 001) My problem arises when I try to go between writing (midi on Vision DSP) and recording (001 & PT LE).

When I write I have all my modules going into the mixer. I don't have any patchbays so to record I have to unplug the module and run a line to the preamp. (Major pain in the butt.)

I'm wondering if routing all the keys or mics out a bus to the PreAmp for recording is good solution. Will it amplify added noise? Will it add more by combining the mixer's pre's (Spirit by Soundcraft) with the PreAmp? Will the universe start spinning the other direction?

Example: Source > Mixer > PreAmp w/ lite compression > 001

I am testing this weekend (busy holiday schedule) but was wondering if anyone had any thoughts in the mean time.

Happy Holidays everyone!

[guiroo]

Maybe I should rephrase...

For those that have an external PreAmp and analog mixer, what signal path do you use when recording vocals and/or keys?

A. Source > MicPre > 001

OR

B. Source > Mixer Channel In > Mixer Sub or Direct Out > MicPre > 001

Thx!

[Dave M.]

The shorter the signal path the better the signal. Personally, I would bypass the mixer.

[guiroo]

Well, I am definitely going to bypass my mixer.

I tested the pre's in the 001 and a VocalMaster. I couldn't tell a difference. Smae singer, same chorus, same levels - I couldn't tell a single difference. (Am I am pretty darn critical.)

Focusrite will pleased to hear that I do plan getting a Penta to bypass the mixer and add an upgrade compressor during tracking though.

I wanted to believe to believe the hype but it just wasn't there.

[Mark Staples]

Are you using the VoiceMaster Pro or just the Voicemaster? In either case, are you using the A/D converter or the stock digi 001 converter?

I'm curious because the VM Pro is supposed to be better than the Penta.

If you're using the stock 001 converter, then that could explain the similarity. I don't own either of the products, but was considering the VM Pro. Now you have me doubting.

Mark

[guiroo]

It was just the plain ol' VocalMaster going into the stock 001 pre. As for similarity, it was exact given that I had 2 different performances. And that is soloing the vocal as well - no background music.

Maybe the A/D converter is the key. I'd like to A/B test one of those too but don't know anyone that has one.

When you say the Pro is supposed to be better than the Penta do you mean the pre, the compression or both?

Anybody else out there done a test and had different results?