grace m101 vs api 312

[scottyrock]

Im am looking to move up a bit on the preamp chain. I read good things about both of theses units. any thoughts. I would be using mostly to record vox and acousitic guitar/bass guitar. all other stuff is soft synths and the like. using mostly a shure ksm 32 condenser mic .thanks for any tips or opinions

scotty

[Len911]

I use an API 212L preamp for vocals. I've used a few different preamps, but I always return to the API. If there are any better preamps out there, I'm not sure I'll ever know because I am quite satisfied with the API.

I've used it with various mics, condensers, tube mics, ribbon mic.

[eeoo]

I have some experience with the Grace, true to it's reputation it's very accurate and will give you a true representation of the source, so it will accurately capture your room, mic, voice etc. I suspect the API will allow you to color your signal a bit more, will have more of a character of it's own which can be a beautiful thing and API is as respected a name as there is. Depends on what your after, in a perfect world you have them both. Me? I'd go with the API because I don't have a great room to record in and I like to color things up. eo.

[mojobone]

You can get some of each (clean or thick n meaty) with the API, depending on how you push it; I like the Grace for pianos, clean acoustic guitars/mandolins and harps, and bass when it's slapped or popped. It's all good, either way, jes' different recipes; I got a cool sound with an SM-57 and API on a cheap banjo with wore-out strings, once. The choice often comes down to the instrument, the part and the room.