Preamp expansion for Ultralite Mk3

[Kerkshar]

I want to add mic preamps to my Ultralite mk3 via the line inputs. Would something like a Focusrite Octopre work and would the clock syncing be an issue? or is there a better way of adding more mic preamps to my setup?

Thanks

[mikehalloran]

Line and Mic inputs are analog. No clock issue if using the Line inputs.

Anything that gives you 6 more mic pres will work if 8 is the goal. Many choices at all price points. Here's a short list of available 8 channel mic pres:
http://www.sweetwater.com/c662--8-channel_Preamps

An Octopre will certainly work but why wouldn't you use ADAT Lightpipe instead to connect the two? Yes, you need to pay attention to the clock but I wouldn't call it an 'issue'. If connecting via Lightpipe, MOTU makes the 8pre.
http://motu.com/products/motuaudio/8pre/optical.html

I often grab my Mackie 1402 as there are direct outs for each of the 6 mic pres—bulky but works well (and I already own one). I use it as an expander to my 828mkII or to replace 6 of the pres in my Zoom R24. I have other tube and solid state preamps but it's often nice to have 6 in one device—and they do sound quite neutral.

[mikehalloran]

If you are going to use the line inputs, I strongly recommend color coded TRS patch cables such as these. They're available in 12", 18" and 36". I find the 1' too short for this unless you have both units mounted in a rack.
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/CSS845



To make hookup faster for remote gigs, I sort the colors alphabetically and hook them up in that order. I suppose that I could get clear shrink-wrap tubing and make number labels... maybe someday.
https://www.amazon.com/1-6m-Length-Shri ... tube+clear

[terrybritton]

Line and Mic inputs are analog. No clock issue if using the Line inputs.

Anything that gives you 6 more mic pres will work if 8 is the goal. Many choices at all price points. Here's a short list of available 8 channel mic pres:
http://www.sweetwater.com/c662--8-channel_Preamps

An Octopre will certainly work but why wouldn't you use ADAT Lightpipe instead to connect the two?

Mike, unfortunately, the Ultralite is unique in that it only sports an S/PDIF pair, and does not have the ADAT optical connections. (It is ultra-lightpipeless...)

I love your suggestions, though, and will pick up some of those color-coded TRS cables!

Terry