Universal Audio 710TF Microphone Preamp vs. Summit Audio 2BA-221

[tommyzai]

I changed the title of this thread as I've narrowed down my options for a good microphone pre-amp in my price range. Which would you choose?

Universal Audio 710TF Microphone Preamp

or

Summit Audio 2BA-221

[The Noodlist]

Topic title changed.........

[cryophonik]

What instruments will you be using it for and which mics do you plan to run through it? My personal recommendations would probably differ say, for example, you're using a low-gain dynamic for vocals, or a ribbon mic, or a tube mic, or if you're primarily going to record instruments (e.g., bass or an acoustic guitar pickup) direct, etc. Also, is there a specific reason you're limiting yourself to a tube pre?

I've never used the WA-MPX, but Warm Audio makes great preamps and processors at very affordable prices. Also, 90 dB of gain is pretty amazing, if you need that. OTOH, the UA 710F is a modern classic, ability to mix anywhere between 100% tube and solid state, and has 70 dB of gain, which is also very good if you need to boost a low-gain source like an SM7B or something. Based on the specs and reviews I've seen, the WA is probably better for torturing your sound sources (in a good way, of course!), whereas the UA is probably better suited for cleaner sounding material. Basically, they seem like they have very different sweet spots. Personally, I'd go with the UA over the WA because it better fits my needs, but yours may differ.

[tommyzai]

Thanks for the great replies. I have three mics at present. The SM57 for acoustic instrument recording and two mics for vocals, Rode NT1 and a Bluebird. I can get the Universal Audio 710TF Microphone Preamp used for an amazing $500 and the Warm Audio WA-MPX for $700 new. These two seemed like the best options for u$1000. I thought about the ART models, Black Audio, Behringer, etc.

I read this and wonder if I should have instead bought a better mic instead, but I think the two I have for vocals aren't bad and the pre-amp would make more of a difference.

https://www.reddit.com/r/audioengineeri ... ?rdt=44463

[cryophonik]

I can get the Universal Audio 710TF Microphone Preamp used for an amazing $500...

Wow, that's a great price if it's in excellent condition!

As for the mics, it's usually a case of diminishing returns as you start spending above $400 or so. The NT1 and Bluebird are both solid vocal mics. Of course, you could always spend a little or a lot more and get something that's incrementally better, but there's always a chance that a more expensive mic won't fit your vocals any better than your current mics.

[tommyzai]

Any thoughts on the Summit Audio 2BA-221 if I can get one used or on sale? Is it much better than the U.A. or Warm?

[cryophonik]

I’ve never owned the Summit, but I’ve considered buying one several times over the years. It’s been around for a long time and gets a lot of praise. Hopefully someone else here has hands-on experience with it and can offer some advice.

[tommyzai]

I need to make a quick decision or lose one or both options. I cannot afford new. The U.A. and the Summit are both paired in the same categories and compared over the years. I wish I had both and could side by side them, but that's not an option. Oh, being a starving musician/producer sucks. LOL

[tommyzai]

I changed the title of this thread as I've narrowed down my options for a good microphone pre-amp in my price range. Which would you choose?

Universal Audio 710TF Microphone Preamp

or

Summit Audio 2BA-221

[jupiter8]

Oh, being a starving musician/producer sucks. LOL

I would'nt sweat it. There's bugger all difference between preamps contrary to what some will have you believe.

You'll be fine with either of them.

[cryophonik]

I’d snag that UA before it’s gone

[Uncle E]

The SM57 for acoustic instrument recording and two mics for vocals, Rode NT1 and a Bluebird.

I know you've taken it off the list but the WA-MPX would be a great choice for these mics. I owned a real Ampex 351 and it sounded amazing.

[tommyzai]

I realize that I need to upgrade my vocal mic, and I will, but . . . which vocal pre-amp is best for u$1000? I have those two in mind and can get a good deal on them, but cannot decide which.

[Uncle E]

WA-MPX

[BertKoor]

To paraphrase jupiter8: you'll be fine with neither of them