Topic: Correct application for SD442?

[Benderman11]

Excuse my ignorance as I am new to this hobby.  I am currently running 2 sets of microphones directly into a zoom H6 via XLR cables.  If I wanted to add a preamp in my chain, would the Sound Devices 442 do the job?  I'm a little confused specifically about the TA3 connectors as direct outputs.  Also, what kind of battery life should I expect our of the 442 running P48? 

Looking for some advice overall if the 442 is not the right choice.  Thanks.
http://www.sounddevices.com/download/guides/442_en.pdf

[carlbeck]

I'm not certain but after reading the manual it appears as if you can run four direct outs, they are the mini cables located on the input side if I read correctly? I've been semi interested in one of these as well so I'm also curious for clarification.

[404 Not Found]

It is a 4 channel Mic/Line Pre with many of the same features as the SD552.  This is a discontinued item from SD.

I would spring a little extra and find an SD552 and get the Internal Recorder, Dual AES3 Digital Outs, 5 channels in with 5 TA3 Direct outs.

Not sure what the 552's are selling for today, but they had been bottom dollar when I got mine.  I think the only reason why was due to the SD663 hitting the market and all the pro market users upgraded.  Last I had noticed, they have jumped back up in price.

I run my 552 all the time.  You can monitor each channel by itself to adjust without impact to the recording itself.  Usually I will record on the 552 internal recorder as a back-up, run the AES3 XLR Out to my S/PDIF in on my Marantz PMD661, and use the TA3 (mini xlr) Direct Outs to either my Tascam DR-70D or my ZoomH6.  There's also a Balanced Stereo TA3 Output on both the 442 and 552.  Many ways to share a mix or create several.