I know this is geared toward video, but would this work as a standalone preamp? Has xlr ins and outs. But it's unclear, to me at least, if this can be used alone or if it has to be used with the video monitor.
2-channel preamp for $400
http://www.videodevices.com/download/guides/PIX-LRug_en.pdfPristine Audio Quality
The PIX-LR features high-performance microphone preamplifiers designed by Sound Devices, LLC, a company renowned for producing innovative, award-winning audio equipment for professional sound mixers. The PIX-LR also comes equipped with superior quality limiters to prevent distortion due to excessively loud sounds, as well as high-pass filters for reducing unwanted low frequencies like wind noise. With such a wide dynamic range and superb limiters built-in, the PIX-LR ensures crisp, noise-free, audio every time.
The PIX-LR enhances the recording experience by adding I/O flexibility and intuitive features, such as hyper-accurate, 23-segment LED metering with limiter indicators. There are two extremely low noise, wide gain XLR analog inputs. Both mic/line-level inputs may be stereo linked, with or without pan, and support 48V phantom power for use with condenser mics. There are also two XLR balanced analog outputs, ideal for low noise, long cable runs.