I need some help deciding on 8-channel preamp

[spicyitaliano]

I’m having some trouble picking out an 8-channel preamp. I’m looking for something a step above the Digimax and Octopre, but I don’t have the budget for the Grace 8-channel preamp. I’m looking for something inbetween, and I’m eyeing the Presonus M80. I intend to use it for tracking drums and larger live sessions, connected to my 002Rack via the ADAT inputs through my Alesis AI-3. I do a lot of rock and acoustic pop music, with a little funk on the side.

I was also considering the Digidesign PRE, but now it’s a matter of transparency or colored sound. I’m trying to figure out the best route to take. With the Presonus M80, a certain amount of coloration is audible (or so I’m told), and with the Digidesign PRE, it’s entirely clean transparent sound. I’m not sure which is the best route for me to take.

So considering it’s application in my studio, what would you suggest? If you can give me any opinions on the two units, or any other units you might suggest, I’d love to hear them. Thanks.

- Andy

[Ronni]

Check out www.bbproaudio.com for great prices on Presonus gear. Give them a call to find out the rock bottom pricing.

I use an M80. I have Burr Brown opamps in it now. But it is mixed in with my Chandler,Vintech, Great River, Amek and holds it's own. It tends to be used more as extra ch's on drums or tracking whole bands. But never once has any one said anything about the tone next to the other good pre amps. Honestly I had a client do some overdubs at Q Division in Boston and the engineers there were saying man where'd you do those drums. They had no idea it was an M80. That was before I got the Chandler and Vintech and all.

Good luck!

[amiller]

Might be a bit above your price range but check this link out, then follow the Neumanusa link at the bottom of that page...

True Systems Precision 8