Okay, I've been using my Yamaha MG-10 as a pre-amp. Cost with balanced cables, approx. $200 dollars CDN
My other pre is out to get serviced, so I thought I'd give it a go. Initially I was hearing distortions that were not there with my pre. With careful listening and adjustments ( approx 2 weeks), I have it on par with my pre which cost me considerably more. Slight distortions can still be heard with some of my recordings, but I have it set for my liking for all recordings in general and I have to say it is really good.
I'm using a external dac, upsampled with balanced out cables to Yamaha MG-10 to mic 1 & 2 with pad buttons engaged. Settings: Gain-11 o'clock, compression-0, treble- +7, mid- +7, bass- +6, peak level volume- 10 o'clock, level stereo master volume +6. Balanced Stereo outs to 1 or 2 amps for 2 or 4 channel stereo.
Warning, don't be stupid about it! Keep volume levels low amd make small incremental changes until you are familiar with the mixer as you could seriously damage your speakers and ears.
