Topic: Preamp problems

[divamum]

Hi all -

Boy the learning curve on this stuff can be steep! SEems like every time I change a piece of gear it's another quantum leap in figuring it all out... So, this week's dufus questions:

I needed a pre for my JB3 combo, initially to run with AT831s, and now with CMC8s (1/8 mini on both - I also use them with my iRiver120).  I do'nt have the budget for a Core (probably the best model for my needs, but I just don't have the $ right now) or an AD20 (I'd need the 1/8 mod, and again, just don't have the $) so I went with the SP model as the smallest and most stealthable.   I also tried out the Reactive Boostbox.

Problems:

- using the SP model, if the gain is at the 29db sensitivity (or whatever one calls it - the flick switch rather than the dial) I can get a reasonable level, but it regularly clips OR brickwalls entirely. If I turn the dial back so no clipping, the overall level is REALLY low.. and it'll still distort brickwall style.

- set the SP to 0 and I can indeed prevent clipping, but it records WAY too quietly.

Using the Boostbox into the JB3 I can get decent levels. (No it's not a great preamp, but at least it WORKS, even though it is so much bulkier than the other model it makes the kind of stealthing I do more problematic. .  Sigh. Savin' my pennies for something better at the first opportunity....)


Using the same mics (either set) into the iRiver, I can get a good recording with good levels.

So I have to assume the problem lies with the preamp. But what could be the problem? SP were somewhat baffled too - clearly it won't work for me, but... why?  Any suggestions?

Thanks for comments/suggestions, as always!