2 channel 2 pre with digital out advice

[bradley]

Hi everyone,

Am quite new to these forums (regularly post on SOS forum) and looking for some advice on 2 channel mic pres.

Am looking for something with digital out (to make use of the spdif input on the Saffire Pro 26).

At the moment I'm thinking about the following:

DBX 386
Audient Mico
Aphex 207D

The Audient Mico seems to be well received in the user reports on the SOS forum and of the three doesn't involve a tube. The DBX got a very good review from Hugh (although on here I've seen quite a few negative posts!) and the Aphex also appears to have been well reviewed.

I'll be using it for a variety of tasks from vocal to instrument recordings and perhaps even as the preamps of the main pair when recording choral and orchestral material.

If anyone has any opinions on these preamps or suggestions for others to consider that would be great!

Thanks
Bradley

[NorseHorse]

I use an ART DPS II. Great connectability via SPDIF. The mids are a little scooped. I bet the dbx and Aphex are more full, but if you are just looking for two cheap channels, the DPS is great!

I also use an ISA 220 with Digital Out. I run a Focusrite Green channel strip through it and the ISA functions as a 2-channel A/D into my Saffire via SPDIF.

[Yago]

Hello Bradley

[bradley]

Thanks for the ART recommendation. Looks like a decent unit and one well worth considering!

Goodevening Yago!

[basskater87]

I just got the Art MPA Digital off ebay with upgraded tubes.........not to shabby at all! Def. a step up from stock pre's on most interfaces.

[bradley]

Are the tubes easy to upgrade? I've just come across a second hand ART DPS II for sales for only £120!