Avalon AD2022 vs DAV BG No.1U - With Classical Piano samples

[88man]

The Sonic Signitures of Two Microphone Preamps in Piano Recording:
-Avalon AD2022 Pure Class A FET Microphone Preamplifier
-DAV Broadhurst Gardens No. 1U Microphone Preamplifier

Setup:

-Room 35x17x9ft.
-Microphones: AKG C414B-XLS - Omni pattern. Spaced 18in stereo pair. Placed 3ft away between curve and tail of piano, 5.7ft high. Fixed position through all samples.
-Avalon AD2022 impedance setting: 150 ohms (selectable 50, 150, or 600 ohms).
-No effects nor EQ was added.
-Each sample group recorded non-simultaneously.
-Piano Steinway B.

Afterthoughts:

The Avalon is slightly more strident with good timbral presence. This preamp might be a good balance for a piano that has predominance of tone rather than a bright timbre, like some European pianos. It would make for an amazing vocal amp or an instrument that will be complimented with a good low midrange presence like acoustic guitar. The DAV might be more forgiving for a piano that is slightly brighter, when comparing it to the Avalon. Since the DAV is more laid back and neutral, one may be able to bring the mics closer to the source, and not run the risk of harsh sounding midrange. All these slight differences can be controlled with careful EQ during the mastering stage.

Overall, one can't go wrong with either mic preamp sonically, but the DAV BG No.1U costing $2000 cheaper, presents a better value at $890 - spend money on mics. Which will I reach for? It will depend on the genre and mood since they're are both good, but mostly the DAV.

I thank Plush and TRayBullard for their generous advice on the DAV.

[Reel2Reel]

I know this is an old post but I wanted to say Thanks for posting this!
I'm trying to decide if I should go with the AD2022 or not.
All I do is record classical music and I thought it might compliment my Millennia very nicely.

Thanks again

RR

[88man]

For classical, the DAV is hard to beat. The Avalon might be closer to a Millenia than the DAV. Save the money, ... I just wish I got 4 channel version.