The Best Microphone Preamps for Home Recording
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Your Ultimate Guide to Microphone Preamps for Home Recording
Running a home recording studio setup is no excuse for you to skimp on recording studio essentials such as a microphone preamp. While microphone preamps are generally expensive, these devices are worth investing in if you want high-quality sound for your recordings — and trust us, it will make all the difference in your home recording quality.
To help make your search easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the best mic preamps for home recording!
What Is the Best Mic Preamp?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best Budget Mic Preamp |  Most Versatile Mic Preamp |
Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-ChannelThe Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel is an industry favorite thanks to its versatility, sound quality amplification, and additional features. | Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1The Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1 is a preamp and mic activator that can give a large gain boost to any microphone type. | PreSonus DigiMax D8The PreSonus DigiMax D8 offers plenty of inputs and functions for the price and space of one preamp. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Top Mic Preamp
#1. Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel
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Benefitting from years of experience, thus establishing themselves as an industry legend, Focusrite has created one of the best mic preamps revered by many — the Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel.
From the name itself, the Scarlett OctoPre has eight preamps. This 8-channel preamp also makes use of second-generation mic lines to help achieve clean gain, high headroom, and low noise. This allows your home recordings to come out natural-sounding as your microphone’s unique character and sound are captured.
Another feature that makes the Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel one of the best ones out there and different from most preamps is its numerous headroom and pads for “extreme inputs”. This feature allows two other instruments, such as keyboards or electric guitars, to be plugged into its front panel.
Thanks to the Scarlett OctoPre’s A/D conversion of 24-bit/192 kHz, you are assured that your instrument’s sound quality is excellent without any excess coloration.
Speaking of conversion, the Scarlett OctoPre can also help you monitor your digital audio quality through visible control using its LED and channel clip indicators.
Other features that make the Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel more impressive are its digital interface, compatibility with other equipment using ADAT through a single cable, and an easy connection system with ADAT optical inputs. It’s also phantom-powered across all its inputs. Just make sure to use 48V so as not to damage the microphone preamp.
Additional features of the Scarlett OctoPre microphone preamp that make it all the more useful and our top pick are the plug-in suite inclusions. To further enhance the quality of your home recordings, the Scarlett OctoPre has the Softube Time and Tone bundle with the former including four channels or Softubes plug-ins, including Reverb and Delay.
Pros and Cons of the Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ 8 preamp channels ✔ Natural-sounding audio quality ✔ Has digital audio interfaces ✔ Great microphone and instruments preamp ✔ Has 2 ADAT outputs ✔ Includes plug-in suites ✔ Suitable for studio and live recording ✔ Durable metal frame perfect for traveling | ✖️ Expansion plus audio interface model is pricey |
#2. Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1
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If ribbon mics are your preferred recording devices, then you would know that they tend to have low output and require a lot of preamp gain. However, the best ribbon mics are great at producing a natural and classic sound that can record vocals, instruments, and the room ambiance itself, so it makes all the setup worth it.
However, there’s another way to prevent any possible harmonic distortion caused by ribbon mics, and that’s with a microphone preamp that has an excellent audio signal and line-level signal. Enter Cloud Microphones’ Cloudlifter CL-1.
While the Cloudlifter CL-1 was specifically designed for dynamic microphones, this preamp is compatible with all microphone types and can exceptionally amplify low-output microphones.
With the ability to give any mic signal a boost of more than 25dB without adding any extra noise or harmonic distortion to the signal path, the Cloudlifter does an impressive job of increasing the output from microphones. This feature allows you to have a better mic for your home recording needs!
Since the Cloudlifter CL-1 is phantom-powered, users may be worried about damaging their delicate ribbon mics’ moving coil. However, this is one issue you need not be concerned about, as the Cloudlifter CL-1’s phantom power does not pass any voltage through its inputs.
Key features of Cloudlifter CL-1 are its ease of “plug-and-play” setup and its affordable price compared to most microphone preamps. To power the Cloudlifter CL-1, you need only to plug in an XLR cable, turn on the phantom power, and turn on the audio interface, and you’re ready to start using this best cheap preamp and mic activator for your home recording needs!
Pros and Cons of the Cloud Microphones Cloudlifter CL-1
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Produces a powerful and clean signal path ✔ Provides a large gain boost to all microphone types ✔ Phantom-powered but voltage does not run through microphones ✔ Easy set-up | ✖️ Bulky design |
#3. PreSonus DigiMax D8
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When building or upgrading your home studio, you know that every inch of space is valuable. For that, you will need versatile equipment so it can do all and be all while only taking up one small corner of your home studio space. Here is where the PreSonus DigiMax D8 Solid State Preamp can be of help.
Unlike most mic preamps, the PreSonus Digimax D8 combines analog and digital technology while functioning as an ADAT-equipped preamp. This preamp also has plenty of inputs as it sports 24-bit/48kHz audio interfaces with eight Class A XMAX mic preamps plus an additional eight analog outputs to send external signals.
Sporting eight XLR mic inputs and another eight TRX jack outputs, it goes without saying that you have plenty of line input to choose from and use for both microphones and instruments with the PreSonus DigiMax D8.
This versatile preamp also has a gain-trim control, a 20 dB pad button, 2 DI box inputs, an ultra-wide dynamic range, and is phantom-powered, making use of 48V.
Pros and Cons of the PreSonus DigiMax D8
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Versatile and feature-filled ✔ Has a gain knob ✔ Plenty of inputs | ✖️ Placement of inputs and outputs can make it difficult to mount it on a rack |
#4. Warm Audio WA73
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With several nominations and awards on its belt, the Warm Audio WA73 is a high-end and iconic preamp. Warm Audio WA73 is a single-channel and dual-channel strip preamp that has defined the tone of many pop and rock records for decades.
Classified as a staple in many studios, especially in British audio history, the WA73 brings vintage to both sound and design, making it the perfect preamp for condenser mics, dynamic mics, and ribbon microphones.
With an 80dB gain and a Carnhill Transformer balanced class signal path, the WA73 is well-suited for expressive sound sources such as vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, percussions, orchestras, keyboards, and more.
There are two models to choose from: the one-channel preamplifier and channel preamplifier — both can come with or without EQ controls. No matter the model you opt for, all WA73 preamps are hand-wired and hand-assembled, making them all the more premium.
They also make use of tantalum and polystyrene capacitors in the signal path, plus an output transistor to help achieve a smooth and clean sound even when your gain settings are set on high.
Pros and Cons of the Warm Audio WA73
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|---|---|
| ✔ Offers both single-channel and dual-channel models ✔ Low distortion sound quality ✔ Can be used for vocals and instruments ✔ Offered in two models with or without EQ section | ✖️ Expensive |
#5. Universal Audio 710TFD Twin-Finity
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The Universal Audio 710TFD Twin-Finity combines the best of both worlds by being a solid-state and tube preamp rolled into one hybrid single-channel preamp.
The 710TFD Twin-Finity is one of the best mic preamps on the list that can strike a balance between churning out a classic retro warm sound thanks to its vacuum tubes and a crisp sound because of its solid-state circuit. It makes for tonal versatility and blending that most interfaces from other tube preamps cannot quite perfect.
Although the Universal Audio 710TFD Twin-Finity only uses a single channel, it makes up for it with other key features. One of which is its front panel, which will allow you to easily track vocals and instruments such as guitar, bass, or keyboards. Another is its input stage for ¼” Hi-Z instruments.
Pros and Cons of the Universal Audio 710TFD Twin-Finity
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| ✔ Hybrid design with both a solid-state and tube circuit ✔ Versatile front panel ✔ Produces a retro warm sound while maintaining its bite ✔ Tonal versatility and blend | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Single channel can be limiting |
#6. PreSonus TubePre V2
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An audio interface has a mic preamp built into it, but having a dedicated mic preamp can make all the difference to your sound.
Some mic pres can be heavy on the wallet, but there are also manufacturers that offer them at an affordable price. The PreSonus TubePre V2 is a good preamp that’s perfect for those budget home studio setups.
This mic pre can add depth and tube character to any sound with its polarity switch, -20dB pad, and switchable phantom power. It also has separate gain and knobs, giving you complete control on the result of your sound.
Pros and Cons of the PreSonus TubePre V2
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| ✔ Affordable ✔ Great build quality ✔ Add tube flavor to sound | ✖️ Cannot be mounted on a rack |
#7. dbx 286s
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Budget-conscious home studio users who want a preamp that’ll work well for their vocal tracks should take a look at the dbx 286s. A dedicated mic preamp and channel strip processor, the 286s can provide musicians and engineers with studio-grade audio processing that’s pleasing to the ears.
The 286s has a compressor, de-esser, EQ settings, and an expander, all of which are the controls that anyone would want to enhance vocals. Using this preamp can refine the detail and definition of the captured sound, as well as give it depth and character. It results in vocals that are crisp, clear, and engaging.
Design-wise, the 286s has clearly labeled controls that are easy to tweak when needed. It’s also rack-mountable and has a solid build that one would find on other higher-end preamps. With how this preamp can turn even the most average tracks into professional ones, this one is certainly a great value for money pick.
Pros and Cons of the dbx 286s
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| ✔ Studio-grade audio ✔ Excellent for vocals ✔ Bang-for-your-buck mic preamp ✔ User-friendly interface | ✖️ Single channel preamp |
#8. Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast
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The Warm Audio TB12 is well-known among engineers for its incredible flexibility. With several signal paths, the TB12 allows any engineer to experiment with tones as they see fit.
Vocals, drums, bass, guitars, you name it, the TB12 can elevate any sound with its punchy, clear tones. Electric guitars especially shine through as the TB12 adds richness and a harmonic edge to the track, making it stand out. Warm Audio also gives users the option of adding bold tones that have famous vintage mods.
Warm Audio did not skimp on the build quality either, with the TB12’s high-end components, ensuring durability for a long time. It can be pricey, but with stellar features that add character and versatility to any sound, the TB12 is definitely worth looking into.
Pros and Cons of the Warm Audio TB12 Tone Beast
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| ✔ Flexible mic preamp ✔ Great for vocals and instruments, especially electric guitars ✔ Robust build | ✖️ Beginners may find it complicated to operate |
#9. Universal Audio Solo 610
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The Universal Audio Solo 610 is a preamp that provides the classic tones and character of the 610 modular console to any setup. Any musician and engineer who wants warmth and depth to their sound will be pleased with how the Solo 610 can perform.
The tube design of the Solo 610 adds harmonic richness to vocals, acoustic guitars, or even bass instruments. Users will also be pleased with the Solo 610’s range of options, going from clean to saturated with a flick of a switch.
Another good thing about the Solo 610 is its portable design. The build quality is excellent as well, allowing you to use it not just at home but in any studio you need to be in.
Pros and Cons of the Universal Audio Solo 610
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|---|---|
| ✔ Vacuum tube preamp ✔ Adds the classic 610 tube warmth to any sound ✔ Wide range of tonal options ✔ Portable design | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Requires maintenance over time |
#10. Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV
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Seeking to achieve a very unique vintage sound? The Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV is a remarkable choice that you should consider.
This mic pre is highly versatile, enough to support quiet sound sources and passive ribbon mics. It offers a warm presence to vocals and demands little to no EQ during post-production. It’s even a great tone-shaping tool for instrument inputs thanks to its intuitive and effective AIR EQ and high-pass filter.
While the Pre-73 doesn’t have digital connectivity, analog recording setup purists will love the way its sturdy knobs and switches can provide organic sound quality. There’s no skimping on the build either, as it’s crafted with only premiere materials.
The premium price might drive away beginners or amateurs, but for those serious recording enthusiasts, the Golden Age Project-73 can be an incredible addition to any existing audio interface setup.
Pros and Cons of the Golden Age Project Pre-73 MKIV
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| ✔ Provides vintage sound ✔ Ideal for diverse recording needs ✔ Half-rack design ✔ Single combi TRS/XLR input | ✖️ Expensive |
Do I Need a Mic Preamp for Recording?
While many audio interfaces come equipped with built-in mic preamps, dedicated microphone preamps offer superior sonic quality and versatility. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts, mic preamps matter as they can elevate the quality of your recordings by providing cleaner gain, transparent sound, enhanced tonal shaping, and greater dynamic range.
Do I Need a Preamp for Home Recording?
Having a mic preamp as an addition to your recording gear at home can be very useful, especially if you want a more detailed sound. Mic preamps can boost a weak signal to line level, adding clarity, detail, and character. Mic preamps can also preserve the natural sound of the source while also ensuring there’s less noise and distortion in the signal chain.
Do Preamps Make Mics Sound Better?
A high-quality microphone preamp serves as the critical link between your microphone and the recording device, amplifying the signal chain with minimal coloration or distortion. By maintaining signal integrity and providing clean gain, a preamp ensures that your recordings capture the full frequency response of sound with clarity and fidelity.
Do Expensive Mic Preamps Make a Difference?
While budget-friendly preamps can certainly get the job done, investing in high-end preamps can yield noticeable improvements in the quality of sound. Higher-end preamps often feature high-quality components, advanced circuitry, analog saturation, and meticulous craftsmanship, resulting in superior transparency, dynamics, sonic quality, and subtle details. For discerning producers and engineers striving for professional-grade tracks, the difference is unmistakable.
Who Makes the Best Mic Preamps?
The market abounds with reputable brands offering exceptional microphone preamps tailored to various budgets and preferences. Some standout contenders include Universal Audio and Focusrite.
Universal Audio is renowned for its classic analog sound and cutting-edge digital modeling technology and is beloved by professionals worldwide for its warmth, character, and versatility. Focusrite combines quality craftsmanship with affordability, and its preamps deliver transparent, professional-grade audio performance suitable for a wide range of applications.
What Are the Best Preamps for Vocals?
Many modern preamps can be used to enhance vocals, but there are ones that stand out from the rest. Some of the best mic preamps for vocals are the Neve 1073 DPX, Grace Design m101, API 512, and Focusrite ISA One. The Neve 1073 DPX is a preamp with dual channels that has a high impedance, a switchable channel located on the front panel, and a built-in EQ and high-pass filter. It’s also useful for vocal takes because of its direct headphones monitoring feature.
Grace Design’s feature is the Ribbon Mode, which will allow you to increase input impedance, increase gain range, and bypass phantom power when you’re using a ribbon mic, while the
Focusrite ISA One is one of the few preamps that have a headphone output and an A-D card for standalone recording. For crisp vocal takes, look into an API preamp such as the 512 that has variable output control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which mic is good for home studio recording?
Studio microphones can give your sound a professional flair. There’s no one answer to this question, as different microphones have their own features that suit various needs. Still, there are some tried and tested options that have become favorites for home studio use, such as the Shure SM7B, ALABS XLR, AKG C414, Shure SM57, or the Royer R-121.
Which mic preamp works great for acoustic instruments?
This guide has several mic preamps that work well for an acoustic guitar, piano, and the like. There are also a couple of mic pres that didn’t make the cut. One good budget choice is the Daking Mic Pre that’s equipped with a Jensen transformer. It has a high-Z instrument input as well as a variable high-pass filter. You can also look into the Daking Mic Pre II, which is almost the same preamp without output transformers.
For those who don’t mind spending more, the Warm Audio WA-MPX preamp features 90dB of gain, a DI input, switchable tape saturation circuit, CineMag transformers, as well as phantom power.
Final Note
With different preamps available in the market, it can get quite intimidating to choose which is the best one for your home studio and audio requirements. Generally, what you will need to keep in mind are the flexible features, desired sound character, channel strips, and more inputs you will be requiring for your preamp, so you can get the most out of it!
Although the premium price tag of preamps can be a bit off-putting, investing in this equipment can make your microphone and recording audio quality better and reduce harmonic distortion. All the preamps in this list are worth the investment.
Editor’s Choice
Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel
Backed by industry legend, Focusrite, the Scarlett OctoPre 8-Channel is a can-do-all dedicated mic preamp.
Carrying not just one channel strip, but eight channel strips with second-generation mic/line preamps, the Scarlett OctoPre can give a clean gain, high headroom, and low noise floor natural sound that amplifies the unique character of your microphone and instruments.
This ADAT-compatible microphone preamp can also be powered by 48V phantom power across all inputs, which is useful when you want to further expand your home system.
With an exceptional A/D conversion and digital interface, the Scarlett OctoPre can handle 24-bit/192kHz while allowing visible control. It even comes with the Focusrite Red 2 and 3 plug-in suite, Softube Time, and Tone Bundle.
