Inexpensive Preamp(s) w/ Insert(s)

[asplashofcitrus]

I've been pondering purchasing another preamp, most likely a 1 or 2 channel pre, but many of the low end options I've been looking at don't include an insert point, of which I prefer to do a tiny amount of compression on the way in (strictly for the sake of single vocals). Some ideas I was thinking of included the SP VTB-1, or the RNP, but wanted to know if there were other hidden "gems" out there under $500. I'm wondering if the RNP would even be worth it, since many reviews claim they're pretty transparent, and I'd be paying a premium just for inserts. But I love FMR products anyhow. A little pricier, but I've also considered the Summit Audio 2BA-221. Any users with experience on that too who could vouch for its use would be appreciated as well.

The gear I have now includes a Profire 2626 (which the pres don't have "color" either) utilizing PT 7.4, and use an RNLA during the mixing stage. Converters are pretty nice on the 2626, and I don't have the cash to fund dedicated converter units so I'll leave that out of the equation. But again I'm looking for a preamp (single or more) on the relatively inexpensive side; the more color the better, with insert points. I was also very interested with the GAP 73 pre, but it doesn't look like it has inserts. Hm. Thoughts, suggestions, and/or opinions?

Extra credit if it is rackmountable!

[asplashofcitrus]

So it's confirmed- it doesn't have inserts!

[Gharper23]

Damn, i deleted it lol.. didnt mean to do that..

http://i37.tinypic.com/2e1htlz.jpg

[M4-10]

Any preamp --> compressor --> ADC

You don't need an insert point unless you are using a combination preamp/ADC (The API A2D is a good example of this, and has an insert point).

So buy any mic preamp that you like, run it to your compressor, and run from that compressor into a line-in on your Profire. No inserts required.

[asplashofcitrus]

Originally Posted by M4-10

Any preamp --> compressor --> ADC

You don't need an insert point unless you are using a combination preamp/ADC (The API A2D is a good example of this, and has an insert point).

So buy any mic preamp that you like, run it to your compressor, and run from that compressor into a line-in on your Profire. No inserts required.

I figured it was as simple as that; I barely skimmed the other thread about this but didn't have the time to think/read it through. Thanks.

So I suppose the question now is, what are suggestions of a gratuitously colored preamp under $500?

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by asplashofcitrus

I figured it was as simple as that; I barely skimmed the other thread about this but didn't have the time to think/read it through. Thanks.

So I suppose the question now is, what are suggestions of a gratuitously colored preamp under $500?

gap pre-73.

if by colored you mean "like crap", the art tube mp.

[asplashofcitrus]

Originally Posted by rty5150

gap pre-73.

if by colored you mean "like crap", the art tube mp.

It's looking like the GAP is the winner. Though I don't mean "like crap" when it comes to color.

The ART tube pre was my first preamp when I first started recording, and although it sucked, it sure was an amazing step up in quality from using my computer's sound card and a karaoke microphone.

Any other "colored" (not 'like crap') preamp suggestions are still welcomed.

[rty5150]

Originally Posted by asplashofcitrus

It's looking like the GAP is the winner. Though I don't mean "like crap" when it comes to color.

The ART tube pre was my first preamp when I first started recording, and although it sucked, it sure was an amazing step up in quality from using my computer's sound card and a karaoke microphone.

Any other "colored" (not 'like crap') preamp suggestions are still welcomed.

the tube mp was my first outboard pre as well. it was a lateral move from my behringer board pres. though i have not tried the GAP myself, it is my understanding that the preamp is the same found in the chameleon labs 7622 and 7602 units. both of which i own and love. if this info is true(and from many GS'ers, they can confirm), you WILL have a rocking pre!