What kind of preamp do you use? - mic preamps

[chromeboy]

I'm working on "un-muddying" my mic'd up sound, i.e. guitar cabs and vocals. I've become very spoiled doing alot of tracks digital in direct, and it seems that, either my mics or preamp is distorting my sound.

I am currently using SM57 and SM58 mics and an ART tube mp preamp. The mics aren't the greatest, but are decent, so to try out an alternative, I just ordered a Studio Buddy preamp, anybody have one of these?

What kind of preamps are you all using and/or recommend?

Thanks for any and all replies.

[bduersch]

I'm currently using ART Tube Channels, which are like the Tube MP, Tube Compressor, and Tube EQ all rolled into one rack space. It's a very flexible unit for the $, and it sounds great!

--B

[JESTER700]

For vocals, you should look at a large diaphragm condensor mic before a preamp. *I like the AT 40 series at the $500 price, but maybe look at a cheap Chinese capsule if you want cheaper (look at Carvin's - they do pretty good QA). *Or get a used AT4033 for a couple hundred.

I use a Symetrix SX202 stereo pre. *A nice $250 unit, but they don't make them any more. *About as good as a newer Mackie mixer.

[LGMT]

For vocals i use a AKG 414,Some Audio Technica and 2 Newmann U87 and U47 with a Avalon Tube Pre Amp or a Manley Vox Box
I'm working in a studio right now.

[shredmaster]

for direct recording or even mic'd, LINE6 !!! *ALSO, get a BBE sonic maximizer rack.