Yes, pre-amps make a difference. I don't know how good the ones in the M-Audio sound but a $300 pre-amp will sound pretty darned good. Diminishing returns sets in pretty quickly in recording equipment - you can spend a fortune for only slightly better performance.

There is a tremendous amount of know how required to get a good sounding recording and mix.


Colin

I try to critique as if you mean business.....

http://colinwardmusic.com/

http://rosewoodcreekband.com/