Topic: Mix Pre / Microtrack II or Upgrade to an Edirol R-44??

[cavernut]

Sorry I posted this in two forums, but i couldnt figure which one would make more sense

Hi i haven't posted here in about a month but you all helped me get stated.

I have a Microtrack II and was considering getting a Mix Pre for Phantom power and more Microphone Control.

I haven't bought my own mics yet, but i have been using a pair of Rode M-3's (Self Powered mics)
I also have been using a pair of Rode NT1 -A's.
If you haven't guessed yet one of my buddies used to be a Rode Dealer.

I also have a (and please don't laugh too hard) a Behringer Ultra Tube Gain Pre. I actually replaced the stock tubes with a pair of Sables and it actually sounds pretty good, No Hiss. But it wont help me out in a live situation.

What I was pondering was Should I buy next; a Mix Pre to use with my Microtrack II or should i upgrade my recorder to the Edirol R-44?
I was thinking the 4 tracks may come in handy in the future. However are the built in Phantom's in the R-44 good enough to power mics without an additional Pre?

Also can you split the tracks and record 2 tracks at a time?

Thanks Michael Foy