I use this preamp with AKG414's used as overhead mics on drum kits, as well as Shure SM81's for acoustic guitars. I ALWAYS hear more out of the mics I plug into this than with any other preamp I have at my disposal. This is a great preamp for condenser mics, it really delivers. As far as louder signals from dynamic mics (ie twin bass drums for a metal band) this unit seems to be a little bit too sensitive without heavy compression. That shouldn't take away from how well it delivers, it just focuses in on what this unit is good at: Sensitive pickup and accurate detail to audio reproduction.

Each channel on this unit has two knobs: Gain and what seems to be a fine-tuning Gain knob. If you know what you're doing this is all you need. The usual +48v is included on each channel, and a very useful phase switch as well. It's really all you need.

If you can't get a decent signal out of this thing, you'd better cut your losses and apply to work at your local fast food eatery ASAP.

It hasn't lost any knobs yet, but where I have it isn't exactly a test of it's durability. As far as finishing and appearance goes, this preamp is beautiful and has the appropriate ammount of blinking LEDs to keep most engineers busy.

Want some clarity where it matters in your mix? You can't go wrong buying this, worth every penny.

Haven't needed them, that's support enough for me.

This thing's shiny, it blinks a lot, and it sounds GREAT! If I didn't have access to it already, I'd want it more than anything else I could want for my studio.

Active musician, Recording engineer, Live sound engineer.

All, Jazz, Metal, Classical

I rate the sound an eight, however if you take the VERY low cost into consideration I give it a 10. If you are purchasing this unit, it's obviously going to be used. $200 to $250 is a good deal! Best money you can possibly spend. However, you're not done yet - try to check inside to see if it includes the original Jensen transformers. If not, you can retrofit them for around $25 each. Then you will want to modify the existing opamps by simply swapping them out of the solderless saddles Presonus used (bless them!). There are sites dedicated to this very issue out there, so just search: Presonus MP20 upgrades. When all is said and done you'll be very thankful, and impressed with this unit!

Most of the extras are a bit unnecessary, though functional enough.

Simple.

The quality, durability, and level of components used in this unit is just unparalleled in this price range.

I've seen these units sold for around $500 before, which is impressive considering it's doubled in value!

I wouldn't know.

Recording Engineer & Active Musician