the V2 just makes everything that much better. i have used the pre in my ad1000, it works, its not the same. i am hoping for the a/d in the V3 to be just as good if not better than the mme, or 1000. we'll see. i really would think about running any mics, studio, live, any situation, without a Grace Designs pre powering them. Apogees a/d is the shit. dont get me wrong i sware by apogee, but i think they kinda flopped with the Mme. i ordered one like 7 months ago, and had time to clip it, to use credit for the V3,which is scheduled to come out before all the mme backoreders are even filled. whats up with that? i am however glad to see we have a nice room full of nuemann phans. you guys obviously know your shit. PEACE ALL! ryan