No, you cannot use your amplifier as a preamp. An amplifier amplifies the signal that it receives from a preamp. If you attempted to use your amplifier as a preamp, you would not be able to control the volume of the signal, because the amplifier would amplify the signal to the maximum volume.
Microphones do not need an amplifier if they are used in conjunction with devices that have a preamplifier built in, such as many portable digital recorders, laptops, and smartphones. However, if you are using a microphone with a device that does not have a preamplifier, such as a camcorder, DSLR camera, or analog recorder, then you will need an external microphone amplifier in order to boost the signal to an acceptable level.
Preamps are devices that amplify the signal from a low-level source to a level that can be processed by a mixer or amplifier. While they are not absolutely necessary in a audio setup, preamps can enhance the sound quality of your system by providing a clean and clear signal. If you are looking to improve the sound quality of your system, adding a preamp may be a good option.
4.6/5
Does not power the mics themselves using Phantom power (that is not what this is designed for). instead, place the cloudlifter at the front of your dynamic mic, then hit it with Phantom Power and your basic mic (even an SM58 style mic) will shine like never before
Easy to use self contained design requires only Phantom power to work. **Does not use Phantom power to power mics
Compatible with tube, battery, or power supply driven microphones – safe for all passive ribbons with no transfer of Phantom
Uses Phantom power to give passive mics (mainly used for dynamic and ribbon mics) up to +25dB without passing Phantom power on to mic
Recommended for use with all passive dynamic microphones
$234
I'm not sure why I held off purchasing this... I believed that $400 for a Shure SM7B and $100 for a mixer would be plenty. Nope! Although the sound quality was still poor, I'm glad I tried it out because WOW! My sound quality saw a MAJOR improvement as a result! And using it was so simple! Literally, all you have to do is plug it in.This tiny gadget essentially does nothing more than increase the microphone's volume so you can lower all of your presets to eliminate background static. And it did so flawlessly!Amazing construction quality; heavy and silky to the touch. It was clearly manufactured in America, and I adore supporting American businesses.Value: Although it's pricey, skipping this and spending $400 on a microphone would be a mistake. I went from an SM58 to a Shure Sm7B, but the improvement wasn't as noticeable as just adding this cloud lifter.Conclusion: This item is a game-changer and makes an NIGHT AND DAY difference when used versus when it is not used. excellent craftsmanship and quality. If you're debating whether to buy it, just DO IT! I'm so glad I did! You won't be sorry!Additionally, this was entirely paid for with my own funds, and the review reflects my true beliefs. I hope it's useful to you.
4.6/5
Program adaptive expander/Gate. Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz
Studio quality mic preamp/channel strip processor
Enhancer increases the detail and definition of the high and low frequencies
Classic dbx compression puts great sound within easy reach
Operating voltage: 120VAC 60Hz, 100VAC 50/60Hz
Purchase includes: dbx286s, power cord, operation manual, and rack mount screws and washers (x4)
Frequency tuneable de-esser reduces sibilance and high frequency distortion
Input: 1/4" TRS (x2) and XLR (x1); output: 1/4" TRS (x1)
$234
One of the few products for which I advise extensively watching the video review is this one. I describe what each setting does as I move through the unit and each component. You can see how this channel strip was used to create the video, giving you an excellent understanding of the possibilities and sound quality.Here are the important points if you don't have time to view the video, which lasts for about a half-hour.The positiveThe compressor balances the loudness, making it ideal for people who don't frequently use a microphone.The noise-gate performs a fantastic job of eliminating room noise from your recordings.Your voice is given that broadcast "radio guy" tone with the audio improvements.Most microphones will run on nice, clear gain. I would advise using a Cloudlifter system with Shure SM7B and comparable mics.THE UNFAVORABLEdoes not convert the signal to USB; as a result, a separate device is required if you want to record on a PC.no on/off switch I've been using it on my desk and have been simply plugging and disconnecting it.You may adjust the sound you desire once you are familiar with all of the settings and how they operate. It performs an excellent job of amplifying a voice and reducing background noise. Highly suggested.
4.4/5
LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz. Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. 2-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects
Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Eight analog inputs: four natural-sounding Scarlett mic pres with plenty of even gain; two inst. Inputs, four additional line level inputs. Two 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs; two discrete headphone outputs with dedicated gain controls; MIDI I/O; S/PDIF in and out; ADAT input to expand channel count
Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; Super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP; Focusrite iOS Control - download the free Focusrite iOS Control app and adjust cue mixes remotely from an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch
$234
As a longtime musician with a developing home recording setup, I can't speak highly enough of the Focusrite Scarlett series products. The consistency of the build quality is quite high, and the pricing points are fairly reasonable given the caliber of the goods. For many years, my bandmates and I used a Scarlett 2i2 for all of our recording endeavors. When the time came for me to purchase my own gear, I chose to upgrade to the 18i8, which I now consider to be one of the best purchases I've ever made.I needed a unit with more inputs in part so I could record live drums, and I've discovered that the 18i8 is the ideal size for my drum setup. The 18i8's four mic preamps are ideal for my standard three- or four-mic drum recording setup, which includes dedicated kick and snare mics, an omnidirectional dynamic mic for the overhead, and occasionally an SDC on the hi-hat. I mostly use Logic as my DAW, and there are no latency or clarity concerns with any of the Scarlett devices when they are connected to Logic. The 18i8 has consistently impressed me throughout my recordings of vocals, guitars, and basses using direct input and mic'd amplifiers, as well as using the MIDI in/out with an ancient Kurtzweil digital piano.I haven't yet experimented with the unit's optical input's expansion to an Octopre or larger set of mic preamps. Since I don't frequently require that many simultaneous inputs and the 18i8 already offers so much for its price, I haven't been able to justify purchasing an Octopre. I'm interested in experimenting with a live band recording setup with this device; I want to see how vocals and a 3-mic drum setup sound through the mic pres, as well as how bass and guitar sound through the analog inputs on the back and perhaps a MIDI keyboard. I won't be surprised if the unit can process that kind of signal load cleanly and without lag given the quality I've seen thus far.Since getting my 18i8, I've also spent money on a 2i2 for myself, which I primarily use when I need to take a recording device on the road. If you need to carry the 18i8 anywhere other than your home studio to record, it fits comfortably in a backpack, but the 2i2 or the Solo are the best options if you really want portability. Since I usually mix and master in a different place from where I keep my recording gear, I also connect the 2i2 to my studio monitors when I'm doing that. However, it doesn't appear like there is a plug-and-play method to daisy-chain the two Scarlett devices into a single device input. You can configure your Mac to treat the two devices as a single input, but I've found it to be a little more challenging and unreliable. On the whole, I continue to be quite impressed with the Focusrite Scarlett series and the quality of these items for their pricing. However, I rarely try to use both at the same time.
4.3/5
Double Single-Ended Amplifier Topology
Low-Noise Class-A JFet Amplifier
18 dB Amplification
Input Pins with 28-48V Phantom Power
For Condenser Microphones
$234
The gift arrived to me rather quickly! The Triton Fethead arrived in a tubular container when I opened it up. A little drawstring bag with the Triton logo was used to contain the preamp.I connected it to my Electro Voice RE320 and ran a brief test using a first-generation Scarlett 2I2. I had to set the gain at 85%-95% without the fethead in order to have a respectable waveform. Since I'm not opening up the mic as much with the fethead, I can set the gain at 60% and have better results. Compared to the competition, there is a fair amount of value for the money. Another benefit is that I didn't require a second XLR cable.Thank you Kellards for the fantastic service!
4.1/5
Streams 2 inputs / 2 outputs with ultra-low latency to your computer, supporting Mac OS X* and Windows XP* or higher
Audiophile 48 kHz resolution for professional audio quality.Maximum Sampling Rate: 48 kHz
2x2 USB audio interface for recording microphones and instruments
Compatible with popular recording software including Avid Pro Tools*, Ableton Live*, Steinberg Cubase*, etc.
State-of-the-art, +48 V-powered XENYX Mic Preamp comparable to stand-alone boutique preamps
$234
————————OVERVIEW ————————Pros: Pad for each preamp; tiny footprint; dual monitor output with A/B and mono switches; superb MIDAS design preamps with XLR/TRS combination jacks for mic/line/inst signals; power via USB bus;CONS• One phantom power switch controls all channels (all four can be turned on or off); use caution when using multiple sources (such as ribbon mics and acoustic guitar pickups).• There are no side effects while using low latency monitoring.————————Value Assessment: HIGH————————First of all, if you only need a straightforward interface with four preamps, this interface is an AMAZING deal. With four preamps, I've conducted direct comparisons with other USB devices (main example being the Focusrite 18i8). The Behringer UMC404HD offers these features for several hundred less dollars:• A set of preamps that sound EXTREMELY close to competition, based on a few recording samples I've conducted (my YouTube channel, B6Music, will have video reviews and product comparisons showing this soon)• A considerably more compact footprintYou'll only give up a few features, which I didn't think were worth $200 or more. Those comprised:• An additional headphone out with separate gain (although four of these may be added for as little as $20 via a headphone amp); • Expandability utilizing ADAT and/or SPDIF connections; • DSP for effects during low-latency monitoring;————————Sound————————As was already mentioned, the preamps undoubtedly compete favorably with more expensive rivals. There were hardly any distinctions that could be noticed (audibly and visually, using frequency analysis software). Preamps are warm, smooth, clean, and have a lot of gain. Although there is just one switch, the phantom power functions as it should, so if you are combining sound sources that don't work well with phantom power, additional equipment may be needed. Simple MIDI I/O uses a single 5-din connector for in and out (ie: 16 channels in, 16 channels out).————————Usability————————It's really usable. The use of all jacks, knobs, and buttons is simple and well-located. The gadget is compatible with most DAWs and is MAC and PC compatible. This has been working for me with Logic Pro X and MAC OSX El Capitan 10.11.1. It has worked without a hitch and doesn't need any downloads or drivers. Although they promote compatibility and the device will function with the majority of current versions by downloading drivers from Behringer's website, I have not personally tried this on Windows. It can be bus powered, which is a GREAT feature that is uncommon on interfaces with this many preamps. This implies that you can power the interface using your laptop if you're on the go and don't have a place to plug in the accompanying AC adapter.————————Build————————The volume and gain knobs feel nice on all of them. They feel incredibly stable and perform well. The build and finish quality are excellent despite the modest size of the building. Regarding any of the jacks, buttons, knobs, LEDs, etc., I have no problems.IncludedUMC404HD interface, an AC adapter, and a USB cable are included in the box.• InformationYou can also obtain the following as downloads (I didn't utilize the downloads, and the description doesn't say much about what is included): • Audio recording, editing, and podcasting software • 150 instrument/effect plug-ins————————Conclusion————————The Behringer UMC404HD is a great option if you simply need a few extra preamps compared to other cheap interfaces, which typically only offer two. Although you give up a few capabilities, I'd choose this interface above most alternatives in the sub-$400 price bracket in order to save some money for other equipment; after that, I'd go on to a larger 8-preamp device. It works great for portable rigs and small studio setups.
4.1/5
Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gain; two instrument inputs, 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors; one headphone output with gain control
Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP
Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz. 2-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects.
Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
$234
Since I started podcasting in 2005, I've never used two microphones. When my kid and I wanted to start a new show, we got USB microphones and carefully followed the Garageband directions in numerous YouTube tutorials and professional bloggers' blog entries, but the program kept crashing.In order to record two tracks simultaneously without Garageband crashing, we decided to use xlr mics and this device instead.We gave it a test run yesterday, and my iMac was the perfect platform for it to function flawlessly. By the way, this time around, we didn't need to create a new midi aggregated device. I simply plugged it in, chose the 2i2 device in both the iMac system preferences and the Garageband preferences, then chose the 2i2 mic 1 on the first track, created a second track, and chose the 2i2 mic 2 on the second track. Be sure to enable the recording button under the track options, then hit play.As you speak into the microphones, you'll see that the 2i2's dials begin to glow green. You're speaking too loudly if they begin to flash red.Thanks to this fantastic equipment, I can't wait to resume interviews and discuss fiction, family, and fun on our brand-new podcast series!
4.1/5
Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.25dB. Supported sample rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz; 2-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects.Headphone Dynamic Range:104dB (A-weighted)
Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; super-low latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP
LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
One natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamp with plenty of even gain; one instrument input, Stereo line outputs on RCA phono for connecting to home speakers; one headphones output with gain control. You don't need a power supply, either - just connect with a USB cable and start recording.
$234
So I purchased this and am using it with my AT2020 from Audio Technica. It effectively delivers the 48v phantom power required to operate the microphone. It works excellent when I connect audio from my gaming PC utilizing a 3.5mm (sound card side) to 1/4' (Scarlett side) connection. Then I link the device using USB to my laptop for streaming and attach my Sennheiser HD579 headset using a 1/4 connection to the Solo's monitor output. With this "preamp," the setup is excellent, and the microphone sounds wonderful. Prior to this, I used a Pyle Mixer, which was terrible in comparison. All I needed was a method for combining the audio from my game and microphone so that I could adjust the level of my headphone without minimizing my game. This did indeed give that. If you stream on Twitch or YouTube, I highly suggest this. Additionally, the Reason 10 music-making program recognizes this and my microphone produces excellent vocal recordings when I record vocal tracks for music. Unqualified five stars!
4.1/5
Includes Pro Tools | First Focusrite Creative Pack and Ableton Live Lite, Softube Time and Tone Bundle, Focusrite’s Red Plug-in Suite, 2GB of Loopmasters samples, Choice of one free XLN Addictive Keys virtual instrument, all available via download upon purchase and registration
Two natural-sounding Scarlett mic preamps with plenty of even gain; two instrument inputs. Two 1/4-inch balanced jack outputs to connect professional studio monitors; one headphones output with gain control; MIDI I/O
Class-leading conversion and sample rates up to 192kHz / 24 bit; super-low roundtrip latency for using your plug-ins in real time without the need for DSP
Compatible with Windows 7 and higher, and Mac OS X 10.10 and higher. Frequency response - 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.1dB. Supported Sample Rates: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz. 2-year limited warranty on manufacturing defects.
LIMITED TIME OFFER: FREE Venomode DeeQ, Maximal 2, and Pivot, plug-ins upon registration and download.
$234
So this is my third focusrite product, wait for it. The Scarlett Solo was the first device I owned, and it operated for a few months before failing. I reasoned that since there was just one mic input and no midi, the product might not be as good quality. So I take the plunge and get this one. My initial purchase was flawed and wouldn't even turn on, so I sent it back and received a replacement from Amazon. Cool. A little while later, one of the mic inputs suddenly quit functioning. Nothing prompted the abrupt stop. In other words, the product is amazing when it works, but boy, is it not made to last. a real money pit.Update: As I previously stated, these devices are great when in operation. Very simple to operate and gets excellent signals. Another useful function is midi. Because it was still under warranty, the fantastic customer care was able to replace my malfunctioning equipment. Since my earlier review, my ire has lessened, and I'm grateful they were able to send me a new functional device. :) (As Amazon's warranty is only for 30 days, this was done through American Music Sound, not Amazon.)
4/5
30 hours battery life / 10 hours with phantom power on
1/8†headphone output for real-time monitoring with supported apps
15.75†cord makes it easy to connect and position
+48v Phantom power for use with professional condenser microphones
Works with all popular audio & video apps
XLR microphone input with adjustable sensitivity
$234
Pre-Setup and Review for iRigI've been looking for a long time for a way to link my professional studio microphones to my iPhone. In order to use a dynamic or condenser microphone with my iOS smartphone, I needed to discover a product. Well, the quest is over due to IK Multimedia. Although I can accomplish the same task at my studio using a sizable mixer, I did not want to carry all that gear with me wherever I went.All of that cumbersome gear is eliminated by the iRig Pre, which also let me to connect my XLR-type microphones to my gadgets. This even applies to my condenser microphones, which need phantom power or 48 v to function. With regard to shooting video remotely, this has been a huge assistance. When live streaming with my Mevo, I can even use the iRig to connect better microphones.I'm really pleased with my first iRig product, which I just bought! I'll have to get additional goods to test out for IK multimedia. There was not much setup needed for this device. You just open the box, put in the included 9v battery (which provides the phantom power and enables the device to function), and connect your XLR to your microphone to the iRig. Now you can attach a plug to your device's 3.5mm jack and start making great audio recordings.With this gadget, you can easily record high-quality podcasts or video casts. I wish I had utilized iRig years ago because I have been creating audio and video content for a very long time. Unquestionably 5 stars. adore it
3.8/5
Fully Balanced, low noise front end
Driverless operation
Usb cable included
48V phantom power
Built-in mic preamp with analog mic gain control
$234
The product I currently own has been functioning flawlessly for about a year; however, there were a few technical difficulties I had to resolve on my own. The Blue Icicle itself, however, is not the issue. When attempting to install this with Windows 7, there would be an issue. Using it with Windows XP had no issues at all. Instead of being "Blue Icicle," it appeared that a separate driver would be installed. It would appear as "USB Multi-Channel Audio Device" instead. I just didn't hear the same sound when I was using Windows XP with it. With some background feedback, it sounded louder. I had to disable the "USB Multi-Channel Audio Device" driver from Device Manager in order to solve this issue. I then had to unplug and replug the Icicle. Click the "Skip getting driver software from Windows Update" button when the notification "Installing device driver software" appears. Now that it has been installed, it will function properly under the name "Blue Icicle"! Even with the Gain Control Volume turned up, if the mic sounds too low to you, make sure you increase the levels in Sound in the Control Panel. It shouldn't be turned up so much anyhow because there would be some feedback in the background. I don't know if I'm the only one, but I hope this helps anybody does have this issue!The Icicle sounded fantastic when I first got it, and I really enjoyed using it! I still do as well! With my Audio-Technica AT2020, I utilize this. I nearly always use it, whether it's for making music or playing online games with pals. And yes, the PS3 is compatible with this; however, the Xbox 360 may not be. I suggest this product to anyone without a mixer for their microphone because mixers can be quite pricey! Haha.
Preamps are used to boost the signal from a microphone so that it can be properly processed by a mixer or recording device. USB mics typically have a built-in preamp, so they do not need an external preamp.
For the most part, you don't need a preamp for recording vocals. If you have a good quality microphone and audio interface, you can get away with just using the preamps in your audio interface. That said, there are some situations where you might want to use an external preamp. For example, if you're recording in a less than ideal environment and need to boost the signal, or if you're trying to get a particular sound that your audio interface's preamps can't provide. Ultimately, it comes down to what sounds best for your particular situation.
No, a preamp does not necessarily boost volume. A preamp can provide gain, which can make a signal louder, but it can also provide other functions like EQ and filtering.
The first step is to understand what a microphone preamp does. A microphone preamp takes the very low-level signal from a microphone and amplifies it to a level that can be used by other devices. The next step is to understand what your needs are. If you are recording music, you will need a different type of microphone preamp than if you are using it for live sound reinforcement. Once you know what you need, you can start to narrow down your choices. There are many different brands and models of microphone preamps on the market, so it is
If you're wondering if you need a preamplifier, there are a few things you can ask yourself. Do you have a turntable? If so, you'll need a preamp to boost the signal from your turntable's cartridge up to line level so that your receiver can amplify it. Do you have a collection of CDs or other digital music files that you want to play through your home stereo? If so, you might need a preamp with a digital input so you can connect a computer or portable music player. Are you looking to improve the sound quality of
A mic preamp is not a necessary piece of audio equipment, but it can be a helpful tool in getting a clean, strong signal from your microphone. If you are recording in a professional studio or live setting, a mic preamp can give you more control over your sound. If you are just starting out with recording, you may not need a mic preamp and can get by with just a microphone and an audio interface.
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