UA 2-610 vs. ADL 600

[Gravity Jim]

I am looking for a good two-channel mic preamp.

I thought I had settled on a UA 2-610, because I like my SOLO 610 and the 2-channel version adds some desired features (primarily the more versatile variable impedance switch).

But, in the same price range, a couple of people have recommended to me the Presonus-built ADL 600, which certainly has an impressive feature list. I've heard the sound of the ADL compared to the UA described as "cleaner," "bigger," and "more detailed."

Do any of you guys have direct experience with these pres? Any input will be gratefully accepted.

[HCMarkus]

Jim, I have a UA LA-610mkII which I love, but my thought is, if you already have a 610 Solo, why not go for the ADL and get a little different color?

[Gravity Jim]

Agreed, HC. But since I only need two channels of preamp beyond what's built into my console (perfectly serviceable but lackluster pres), I was planning to sell the Solo 610. So I'm trying to decide between more of what I know or something completely different. I've been told that the 2-610 is a different beast from the Solo, anyway... similar, but more flexible.

[buzzsmith]

I have had the ADL 600 for around 2+ years and have been very satisfied.

In my opinion, it's very transparent either with mics or line ins.

It doesn't seem to "add" anything, just does what a mic pre is supposed to do.

Buzzy

[Gravity Jim]

Buzzy, are you recording your piano through the ADL?

[buzzsmith]

Buzzy, are you recording your piano through the ADL?

Yes. I'm currently using 2 Audix SCX25s.

Sometimes I use their clamps, but most of the time the mics are on stands.



Buzzy

[Gravity Jim]

Well, that's a good recommendation. I know you're very meticulous about your piano sound.

I think I'll try the ADL. I can always ship I back for the 2-610 if I felt something was "lacking," but from the reviews I've been reading that doesn't seem likely.

[HCMarkus]

That ADL is one solidly-built piece of equipment.

[Gravity Jim]

HC - no doubt. It weighs almost 30 pounds! Some big iron in that box.

I'm definitely thinking this is way to go.

[buzzsmith]

That ADL is one solidly-built piece of equipment.

I also like it's kinda "old school" look.



Buzzy

[Gravity Jim]

Those VUs are a big plus over the UA unit. I do dig the design.

[Tobor]

That is a nice looking unit and I've heard nothing but good things about the ADL.

Having two great preamp channels (or more) really makes a difference in how your projects sound as things stack up. I've heard the ADL is pretty clean as well, which is what you want if you only have two. It's easy via plugs etc. to dirty things up, only one chance to get things clean.

I went through my preamp obsession a few years ago, and got some nice ones. I must say I use my Great River MP2 and Buzz Audio MA2.2 almost exclusively these days (clean with bite and clean with sheen), still loving them.

You might check out the Great River pres as well, lots of raves on various sites.

[Gravity Jim]

Tobor, I hear great things about the Great River pres... But the one in my price range (the MP-2NV) has a simple "high-low" impedance switch, rather than the four level switch on the ADL, and I'm really interested in being able to more precisely dial in the response of a mic, specifically my ribbon mics. That, the massive transformers and the VU meters are really selling me on the ADL 600.

[Nunu]

the 2610 is a great preamp for rounding & warming things up - fantastic on vocals, sax, trumpet. Sometimes it shaves off too much the transients, I had poor results with percussion & drums. Even for el guitar it soften the attacks too much. Well it depends what kind of sound you're looking for… For ribbons it's just the contrary of what's needed - too soft & too dark. IMO as always...