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Hearing and Measuring the Differences between different pre-amps?

kkroe

Member
Apologies for the basic question, but I'm keen to understand how to measure and train my ears to discern differences in recordings. I've recorded the same instrument with a same microphone on my Zoom H6, Midas F32, and UAD 8XP. However, upon playback, I struggle to identify a clear winner.

Initially, I expected differences in noise levels or distinct characteristics like improved high or defined low ends. Yet, as a listener, I find the technical aspects—preamp and A/D converter choices—seem less influential compared to the instrument quality, musician's performance, and microphone used.

I aim for clean recordings without intentional coloring, such as clipping or saturation. Any tips on exercises to help me better hear and utilize the capabilities of the UAD 8XP? Despite its seemingly superior specs, I might be missing something in making it sound significantly better.

For context, I use quality speakers, have decent acoustic treatment, and own good headphones. Am I on the right track by adjusting preamp gain to maintain around -12dB on my DAW meter for phantom-powered mics?

Thanks a lot for your time reading and replying this thread ( :
 

klasaine

Hall of Fame Member
Yet, as a listener, I find the technical aspects—preamp and A/D converter choices—seem less influential compared to the instrument quality, musician's performance, and microphone used.
You‘ve already learned the most important lesson; the mic and mic placement (and the player/instrument) have the most influence on the recording, especially if you’re going for a “clean” representation. It’s when you start to push the gain on different pres that the differences (and the beauty) show up.

Via your 8xp, load the stand alone Neve preamp and push it.
Do the same thing with the stand alone API pre.
You can demo these for two weeks if you don’t own them.

Using EQs that have preamps, such as the Neve 1084 v. the Helios 69, will reveal more potential differences or ‘color’ when pushed.
 
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kkroe

Member
You‘ve already learned the most important lesson; the mic and mic placement (and the player/instrument) have the most influence on the recording, especially if you’re going for a “clean” representation. It’s when you start to push the gain on different pres that the differences (and the beauty) show up.
Yes indeed, that's my understanding / personal experience, the difference will only pop when you start saturating on the pre amp.

I expected less noise to be present when recording, but turns out that I didn't find any noticeable difference comparing it to my more affordable gear.

Via your 8xp, load the stand alone Neve preamp and push it.
Do the same thing with the stand alone API pre.
You can demo these for two weeks if you don’t own them.

Using EQs that have preamps, such as the Neve 1084 v. the Helios 69, will reveal more potential differences or ‘color’ when pushed.
I have tried the pushing the Neve and I thought the saturation worked quiet well for vocals, but not really for the instrument I'm recording.

I'm going to try the Neve ( again ) and also other pre amps, I haven't tried the Helios yet for instance.

Any other suggestions / recommendations on how to improve the recordings further will be really welcome.

Thanks everyone
 
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