To pre-amp or not to pre-amp?

[Emma Boyd]

I've become aware of a lot of mixed opinions with regards to whether using a pre-amp is actually beneficial to recording vocals. I was just curious as to everyone's thoughts on that? What are the pros and cons?

I record on a DP-008-EX and use an ART Studio pre-amp.

 

[-mjk-]

It all depends upon the outcome you need. If you want the coloration that a specific preamp can provide, then go for it. There is no right/wrong. Some engineers I know used to travel with a rack of preamps from vintage consoles. Since consoles and interfaces have mic pres, to me the only real advantage is the sound of a particular preamp. Those ART pre amps are not bad. I have one with a tube compressor.

 

[BazzBass]

I too have an ART tube compressor preamp and it absolutely breathes new life when paired with an LDC mic

 

[-mjk-]

I have one also and I agree.