Pre-amp?

[odsus]

O.k. so here is the question;

I have a P.C. running cool edit with an ST Audio DSP 24 card (8 in-8 out). The problem is that only channel 1 & 2 have a pre-amp (by pre-amp I mean nothing more than a mic/line pot). The problem is all of my levels are very low on vocal tracks, room mics, and the like. I am fine when it comes to mic'ing cabinets, kicks and snares, but those damn vocals and things where there is not a whole lota output give me no end of hell.

I want to set up to record a full band live (we use a 57, beta-52, audio-tecnica MB1000L, senheiser e-835, and various 57/58 knock-offs). We have no high output mics so do do you all think I can get by with one of those cheap multi (4-8 ) channel pre-amps, or should I save up and go for a few decent pre's?

[ubertar]

do you all think I can get by with one of those cheap multi (4-8 ) channel pre-amps, or should I save up and go for a few decent pre's?

What is the purpose of your recording? Are you making a demo for getting gigs, or something more? If it's for a live demo, I'd just get something cheap for now, and save for something better for later.

Most clubs only care about the bottom line: getting butts in the door and selling drinks. They'll be more impressed by the number of people on your mailing list than any difference a better pre will make in your demos.

On the other hand, there's nothing wrong with having good equipment. It comes down to what your priorities are for that money.

[Auxillary]

Gotta remember the converters on the st audio aren't great either. Pushing a good preamp through them may end up being very dissapointing and turn you off to good pre's for life (almost happened to me).

I would get something "cheap" like the presonus or sytek offerings.

[odsus]

Thanks ya'll, I was already leaning that way but I figured that I would throw it out there anyhow.