need advice... 4 pre's for around 2k?

[theBaldfather]

I'm looking to get 4 great pres that won't have to be upgraded anytime soon. I'm hoping to get something that will kill on drums, but also be solid for guitars and vox. I was looking at the api 3124 (a bit more than 2k), cause I've always loved their sound, but I'd definately be open to suggestions. Most of the recordings I do are rock so a little color won't be a bad thing. I want to avoid color that will compromise versatility though. Any opinions?


P.S.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... ory=119018
This was a random option, to go with my rme fireface 800.. Does anyone at all have experience with this. It would be a little different direction, but have it's own benefits.

[A-Barr]

Just a nice option to be aware of - the Focusrite ISA-428. It's not API but hey...

[Meriphew]

I'd get the API 3124+. If you can't swing that, then look at the Daking IV.

[Mane1234]

You could get 8 channels of Sytek for 2K....4 of them straight up and 4 with the Burr_Brown mod....I'd really try and stretch all the way to that API though...What are those about 2500?

[chris harris]

I'd get the API 3124+. If you can't swing that, then look at the Daking IV.

Bingo.

For your budget and your needs, these two are your best options.

[Recycled_Brains]

you could get two of these.

they're better than awesome.

-ryan

[kittonian]

The Daking IV is definitely the way to go. Great sounding mic-pre's designed after the Trident A range. They work on pretty much anything you throw at them.

[Max]

Just a nice option to be aware of - the Focusrite ISA-428. It's not API but hey...

I got the 428 mainly because of the optional AD converters to add another 8 inputs to my 002.
It's a decent and versatile pre amp and I'm really happy with mine, but if it wouldn't have been for the AD converters I probably would have gotten something else.
2 APIs and 2 channels of Hamptone JFET, maybe.
I'm a fan of those vintage German broadcast pre-amps. I've a pair of Neumann V476b that sound pretty cool for electric guitars and I've used the Siemens V276 a bit and think that they sound really nice. I'm not sure how hard those are to find in the states. You can get them over here in Germany for relatively small money.
I'd love to hear those Dakings though.

[JWL]

For that budget, I'd probably pick up a 7th Circle Audio kit and start stuffing it with preamps (I'd start with API and Neve clones).

Are you any good with a soldering iron?

[chetatkinsdiet]

I saw a Quad8 rack with 4 pres just yesterday. I think it was on ebay. I think it was $1500. A killer deal if it's done right. I didn't look too close, but I'm sure you could surf around a bit and find them if they're still available. If they're not there any longer, or not up to par with the racking job...I'd go for the API if you can save up a bit more. You might even find a used one for closer to $2K or even a lunchbox and some used modules.

later,

m

[Max]

I just waisted some time window shopping on ebay and the Quad8 is still there.
I've seen the API 3124 there as well.

[trodden]

another api 3124 user here. i paid 2300 for mine, sonic circus.. you can usually find demo or open box units between 2150 and 2300.

[theBaldfather]

Has anyone listened to the Daking IV? Could anyone compare it to the api? So far those two are emerging as winners.. I saw that quad8 last night and was tempeted but didn't know enough about it to bid. Now I'm cursing. I couldn't find it today. Ah well...

[I'm Painting Again]

API or Hamptone would be my recommendation..



API will remain most valuable when re-sold..

[theBaldfather]

I went with my gut and ordered an api 3124+. I'm all tingly with excitment! I can't wait to use it for next weekend's sessions.