Top Tier Mic Preamps Within a $1000 Budget
Whatcha Need 'n' Get with a Mic Preamp for Your Home Studio
Building your home studio? Need some gear advice? Look no further, because I've got the deets on the must-have gear for your studio-it's the mic preamp, fool!
Some folks will argue that you need a better audio interface or to ditch the free VSTs, but many pro audio cats will tell you to invest in a killer mic preamp-and they ain't lying.
Most beginner home studios will use a built-in mic preamp in their audio interface (if it ain't a dud). But, the truth is, built-in mic preamps ain't always top-notch quality. That's where an outboard mic preamp comes into play.
Outboard mic preamps are a huge step up from built-in ones-but buying one can be daunting. Luckily, there are some affordable options out there that don't break the bank. Here are the top 10 best cheap mic preamps on the scene today:
What is a Mic Preamplifier, You Ask?
A mic preamp (or microphone preamplifier) is a device that boosts the audio signal from a microphone until it's strong enough to connect to other studio gear. It's the first point of gain in your signal chain.
Many audio interfaces have built-in mic preamps. But if you got yourself an outboard mic preamp, you're getting a more powerful and refined sound.
Dishin' on the Top Ten:
1. Focusrite ISA One
Channels: 1Street Price: $539.99 USDFocusrite's classy ISA One desktop preamp is modeled after their popular vintage console, and it sounds clean but warm with loads of gain on tap.
2. Golden Age Pre73
Channels: 1Street Price: $349.99 USD
The Golden Age Project Pre73 is one of the first affordable preamps based on the circuit design of the legendary Neve 1073 preamp. It ain't a perfect clone, but it comes pretty close to the Neve's appealing sound for a steal.
3. Universal Audio Twinfinity
Channels: 1Street Price: $899 USD
Invest a little more, and you can own the Twinfinity, which pushes the definition of affordable. This preamp offers switchable tube warmth or solid-state tightness, so you get the best of both worlds.
4. Warm Audio WA12 MKII
Channels: 1Street Price: $469 USD
The WA12 MKII from Warm Audio is a budget-friendly preamp based on the classic API 312 design. API preamps are known for their punchy upper mids and fast transients-so you'll get that classic 70's American console sound without spending a fortune.
5. Black Lion Auteur MK2
Channels: 2Street Price: $399 USD
Black Lion's Auteur MK2 is another great choice for an intermediate budget. Their high-fidelity audio preamp offers a natural sound that is neither too colored nor too clean.
6. FMR Audio RNP
Channels: 2Street Price: $480 USD
FMR Audio's RNP stands for 'Really Nice Preamp,' and it's a solid dual-channel mic preamp with lots of clean gain available. It's less colored than other preamps on this list, but sometimes you need it clean.
7. ART Pro MPA II
Channels: 2Street Price: $319.00 USD
Could it be the real deal? The ART pro MPA II is a tube microphone preamp for a low price. In a sea of budget tube gear that's often dismissed as a gimmick, this preamp delivers the goods.
8. Black Lion B173
Channels: 1Street Price: $499
The Black Lion B173 is another Neve-style preamp at a reasonable price. With its output trim control, you can dial in the drive and character of the Cinemag transformer input section.
9. Warm Audio WA73
Channels: 1Street Price: $599 USD
Warm Audio's WA73 brings the sound of vintage British consoles to your recordings. It offers authentic UK-made Carnhill transformers, so you can get that 70's British console flavor without spending a ton of cash.
10. Fredenstein V.A.S.
Channels: 1Street Price: $299 USD
Fredenstein is a new player on the budget pro-audio scene, but the V.A.S. preamp is an impressive offering. It comes with features like an insert point, adjustable input impedance, and output stage gain trim, making it a worthy contender for an outboard preamp.
Stockin' Up on Mic Preamps
Ain't no denying that mic preamps are one of the excitiest pieces of gear for your studio. With options abound, it's essential to research which mic preamps offer the best bang for your buck. So drop some knowledge, try some demos, and find the perfect mic preamp for your home studio. Cheers!
Michael Hahn is a producer and engineer at Autoland and member of the swirling indie rock trio Slight. Follow him on Instagram at @Michael Hahn
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- When setting up your home studio, don't forget to consider the Entertainment factor, as a good-quality Mic Preamp can greatly enhance your Music production.
- With numerous affordable options like the Focusrite ISA One, the Golden Age Pre73, and the Warm Audio WA12 MKII, incorporating Music quality into your home studio doesn't have to drain your budget.
