Which preamp

[Rocky55]

Howdie,

I need, ok, I don't need, but I'd like a preamp to fill the last space in my accessories rack. As you might've read in other threads, I have 2 rigs (3 if you count IEM setup) split in 3 racks.

Rig 1:
Aguilar DB750 / Berg NV610

Rig 2:
EA iAMP800 / NL210

Rig 3:
Shure PSM600 / E3

Now, the DB750 is in a rack, the iAMP in another and the 3rd rack has my accessories and always goes with me. In there you will find:
- Furman PC
- Shure ULXP wireless
- dbx comp
- tuner
- *** BLANK ***

I don't like BLANK and would like to fill it with something, probably a preamp, that I could use when using the IEMs. I thought of an RBI that could give me someone of a vintage tone when going IEM (without an amp), and run it in the effects loop of the DB750 when I need some dirt.

Then I thought, I don't have a lot of experience with the DB750 yet (only 2 gigs), but what if I needed more EQ for some "boomy" rooms? Would I be better with a preamp like the Demeter to dial out those problem frequencies (as needed)? I also like the fact that it has a Jensen transformer in the DI.

Would I be better off with a preamp just for the IEM rig and and some type of EQ in the Aggie rack (there is one free space in that rack too ) I've read some good things about the Presonus Eureka, and also many having problems with them.

Any advice appreciated. I'm wondering if the RBI would just be moot, or kill the wonderful tone of the Aggie. Although it could be sweet when going direct with the IEM.

Sound confused enough?

Thanks guys,
Rocky

 

[Rocky55]

 

[tombowlus]

You might want to consider an Aguilar DB 659, which just may nail "your" tone, but which doesn't offer any additional tone controls beyond what the 750 has to offfer (and, for whatever reason, I find that it sounds better than the preamp on the 750, so using it into the power section of the 750 would be an option - an option I love, BTW!).

If you want additional tonal control, but only have 1U, then the Demeter HBP-1 is hard to beat.

 

[Rocky55]

You might want to consider an Aguilar DB 659, which just may nail "your" tone, but which doesn't offer any additional tone controls beyond what the 750 has to offfer (and, for whatever reason, I find that it sounds better than the preamp on the 750, so using it into the power section of the 750 would be an option - an option I love, BTW!).

If you want additional tonal control, but only have 1U, then the Demeter HBP-1 is hard to beat.

Thanks Tom,

That's exactly what I didn't want to hear!!! There is an HBP-1 in the classified that I've been thinking about for the last few days!!! I almost jumped on it yesterday, but then remember that my Tacoma Thunderchief is coming back from the shop this week with a $400 invoice (bought it off eBay and it showed up with a cracked top and internal bracing). I was hoping that the cheaper RBI would fit the bill, but am worried about its tone shaping capabilities.

I guess going with the Demeter would make sense though. The DB750 can get a bit of dirt on its own (doesn't need RBI), I wouldn't need a separate EQ (Eureka) and the Demeter would probably sound killer through the PA (and IEM). So instead of buying 2 pieces of gear, I could get away with a single one.

OK, I think I might go for it.... how about if it's still available tomorrow morning, I will consider it a sign.

Thanks Buddy,
Rocky

 

[DaveAceofBass]

What about getting either a BBE Sonic Maximizer or an Aphex Big Bottom (I think it's model #504)?

 

[rockstarbassist]

Thanks Tom,

That's exactly what I didn't want to hear!!! There is an HBP-1 in the classified that I've been thinking about for the last few days!!! I almost jumped on it yesterday, but then remember that my Tacoma Thunderchief is coming back from the shop this week with a $400 invoice (bought it off eBay and it showed up with a cracked top and internal bracing). I was hoping that the cheaper RBI would fit the bill, but am worried about its tone shaping capabilities.

I guess going with the Demeter would make sense though. The DB750 can get a bit of dirt on its own (doesn't need RBI), I wouldn't need a separate EQ (Eureka) and the Demeter would probably sound killer through the PA (and IEM). So instead of buying 2 pieces of gear, I could get away with a single one.

OK, I think I might go for it.... how about if it's still available tomorrow morning, I will consider it a sign.

Thanks Buddy,
Rocky

The Demeters sound great recorded and live. Great flat responsive and even tone IMO. Leaves a bit to be desired as far as EQ goes, however. Had a VTBP-201s and really liked it, but had to get an external EQ to really shape my sound some. Almost got the HBP-1 also, but got the Nav instead. Too many options for the same money.

 

[GreyBeard]

This may be way off beat for you but I don't think you are going to improve much on your basic tone. Sticking another pre-amp in your signal chain doesn't make much sense to me. I'd get something like an Alembic SF-2. These things can shape tone beyond anything I've ever fooled around with.

 

[Rocky55]

This may be way off beat for you but I don't think you are going to improve much on your basic tone. Sticking another pre-amp in your signal chain doesn't make much sense to me. I'd get something like an Alembic SF-2. These things can shape tone beyond anything I've ever fooled around with.

That's a great idea also!
The reason I was considering the Demeter HBP-1 was that I could, if needed, use the parametric EQ to get rid of offending frequencies. At the same time, I would have a pretty good preamp for going straight to FOH when not using an amp and using the IEM. As for stage sound, I think the DB750 has pretty much all the tone I need, so the Demeter (or other) would not generally be part of the chain.

R

 

[lgrankin]

How a blank rack space filler... you could get a vented one... it would look very cool and save a few bucks at the same time.

Just a thought,
L

 

[quallabone]

You might want to consider an Aguilar DB 659, which just may nail "your" tone, but which doesn't offer any additional tone controls beyond what the 750 has to offfer (and, for whatever reason, I find that it sounds better than the preamp on the 750, so using it into the power section of the 750 would be an option - an option I love, BTW!).

If you want additional tonal control, but only have 1U, then the Demeter HBP-1 is hard to beat.

That's basically my in ear setup,
-DB 659
-PSM 600
-Ultimate Ears custom molds.

Nothing but happy things to say about it.

 

[Rocky55]

How a blank rack space filler... you could get a vented one... it would look very cool and save a few bucks at the same time.

Just a thought,
L

Do you realize what you just said Lou???? Are you sure you're from Ottawa! LOL! Why pass the chance to get new toys in order to save a few bucks?
I realize that it would be a good option and I have considered it but it doesn't help taking care of problem frequencies should I have to, nor help the tone for the IEM setup.

We'll see... I'm in no rush as I'm still in the honeymoon phase with the Aguilar/Bergantino rig.

Rocky