Top 10 Best Adat Preamp in 2024

Every professional recording studio should have a good ADAT preamp as it’s one of the essential parts of a recording studio.

I don’t say if you have an apartment studio then you need a separate preamp, but if you want to build a professional studio then you must have this.

Preamp is a device that amplifies the audio signal from your microphones and sends it to the audio interface with increased amplitude.

So, a preamp is important, but the problem is, that there are many types and brands of Preamps available out there.

And, choosing one that works for you is really hard.

That’s why, I have come up with this blog post, in which I have compared the 10 best ADAT preamps for you.

After reading this blog post, you will be definitely able to choose the right preamp for your studio.

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At last, I’ll also give you the buying guide for ADAT preamp which additionally helps you to choose the right one for your recording studio.

Best ADAT Preamp for Vocals

First off,

PreSonus DigiMax D8 Eight-Channel Preamp with 48 kHz ADAT Output

PreSonus DigiMax D8 Eight-Channel Preamp with 48 kHz ADAT Output

The PreSonus DigiMax D8 Eight-Channel Preamp with 48 kHz ADAT Output is a high-quality, 8-channel, analog front end for ADAT Lightpipe-equipped digital audio devices.

The 1U rack-mount unit features 8 mic/line inputs with Class A XMAX solid-state mic preamps, 2 instrument inputs, word-clock input, and an 8-channel ADAT Lightpipe output with 24-bit, 44.1/48 kHz A/D converters.

The DigiMax D8 is an excellent way to add more analog inputs to any third-party, Lightpipe-equipped digital audio device.

Better yet, add a DigiMax D8 to a Lightpipe-equipped PreSonus AudioBox 1818VSL for a 2-Rackspace rig with 16 XMAX-equipped recording channels—enough to record an entire live band.

To keep your digital audio in sync with ultra-low jitter, the D8 receives a word clock at its BNC connection and sends that via ADAT Optical.

Features

  • Get the best sound quality with Class A mic preamps
  • Connect any mic-level source to the 8 XLR inputs
  • Add more analog inputs to any third-party, Lightpipe-equipped digital audio device
  • Record an entire live band with 16 XMAX-equipped recording channels
  • Keep your digital audio in sync with ultra-low jitter
  • 1U rack-mountable unit

Pros

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Versatile connectivity
  • Ideal for live recording applications

Cons

  • Some users have found the unit to be noisy
  • Requires an external power supply

Verdict

The PreSonus DigiMax D8 is a high-quality, 8-channel preamp with excellent sound quality and versatile connectivity. It is ideal for live recording applications.

Some users have found the unit to be noisy, however, and it requires an external power supply.

Focusrite Clarett+ OctoPre 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with ADAT and Analog I/O

Focusrite Clarett+ OctoPre preamp

The Clarett+ OctoPre 8-Channel Mic Pre Expansion with ADAT and Analog I/O from Focusrite is an eight-channel ADAT preamp for both the aspiring and established engineer.

It features 8 high headroom, low noise, and low distortion Clarett+ preamps – featuring All-analogue Air with relay-controlled circuitry – which capture drums, vocals, and acoustic instruments with superb clarity.

High-quality ADA converters bring audio clarity to studio tracking sessions with high dynamic range, ultra-low noise, and ultra-low distortion.

The Clarett+ OctoPre is a great way to expand your I/O easily via ADAT.

Features

  • Eight pristine Clarett+ preamps for superb quality recordings
  • High-quality A-D/D-A converters with high dynamic range, ultra-low noise, and low distortion
  • Exceptional D-A conversion ensures audio quality is preserved when sending audio to analog compressors, EQs, and effects
  • Connect to a Clarett+ 2Pre, 4Pre, or 8Pre (or any ADAT-enabled interface) to expand your I/O easily via ADAT
  • The Clarett+ OctoPre is the eight-channel ADAT preamp for both the aspiring and established engineer

Pros

  • Clean and clear recordings
  • Easy to use
  • Great sound quality

Cons

  • Some users have found the unit to be noisy
  • Requires an external power supply

Verdict

The Clarett+ OctoPre is a great choice for those looking for an 8-channel ADAT preamp with excellent sound quality. It’s easy to use and provides clean and clear recordings.

Behringer ADA8200 Microphone Preamp

Behringer ADA8200 Microphone Preamp

The Behringer ADA8200 Microphone Preamp is one of the best on the market. It features stunningly accurate, reference-class Cirrus Logic A/D – D/A converters and 8 Award-winning Midas-designed Mic Preamps.

Your recording tracks will sound just as amazing as you imagined them – when you lay them down with the ADA8200!

The ADA8200 is sublimely easy to operate, fits neatly into a single rack space, and thanks to the 8 Midas-designed mic preamps with switchable +48 V Phantom Power and integrated Cirrus Logic 24-bit A/D – D/A converters, you get incredibly detailed, pristine performance.

Signal conversion takes place at your choice of 44.1 or 48 kHz with full 24-bit resolution.

The ADAT Inputs and Outputs can be operated independently, as long as you use an identical word clock signal.

And ADA8200’s operating frequency range is an ultra-wide 10 Hz to 24 kHz – at a very respectable, 48 kHz sampling rate put simply, the ULTRAGAIN ADA8200 is the professional’s edge.

Features

  • The Best Adat Preamp on the market
  • 8 Award-winning Midas-designed Mic Preamps
  • Stunningly accurate, reference-class Cirrus Logic A/D – D/A converters
  • Fits neatly into a single rack space
  • Ultra-wide 10 Hz to 24 kHz operating frequency range
  • 48 kHz sampling rate
  • ADAT Inputs and Outputs can be operated independently

Pros

  • Best Adat Preamp
  • 8 Award-winning Midas-designed Mic Preamps
  • Stunningly accurate, reference-class Cirrus Logic A/D – D/A converters
  • Ultra-wide 10 Hz to 24 kHz operating frequency range
  • 48 kHz sampling rate
  • ADAT Inputs and Outputs can be operated independently

Cons

  • None!

Verdict

The Behringer ADA8200 is one of the best Adat Preamps on the market. It features 8 Award-winning Midas-designed Mic Preamps and stunningly accurate, reference-class Cirrus Logic A/D – D/A converters.

This technology makes it possible to achieve an incredibly detailed, pristine recording. The ADAT Inputs and Outputs can be operated independently, making it a versatile tool for any digital recording/mixing environment.

Audient ASP880 8-channel Microphone Preamp

Audient ASP880 8-channel Microphone Preamp

If you’re looking for a quality 8-channel microphone preamp, the Audient ASP880 is a great option.

It features Class-A console mic pres, high-end Burr-Brown converters, and more.

Plus, it comes with free plugins and software to make your recordings sound even better. pick:

The Audient ASP880 is our top pick for the best Adat preamp because it offers great sound quality.

Features

  • Get transparent, world-class audio with just a hint of analog coloration
  • 8 channels of Audient’s acclaimed Class-A console mic pres
  • High-end Burr Brown converters
  • Line inputs, variable highpass filters, insert points, and two discrete JFET DIs
  • All-metal enclosure

Pros

  • 8 channels of Audient’s acclaimed Class-A console mic pres
  • High-end Burr Brown converters
  • Line inputs, variable highpass filters, insert points, and two discrete JFET DIs
  • All-metal enclosure

Cons

  • The Audient ASP880 is not a budget-friendly option
  • It doesn’t have as many features as some of the other options on the market

Verdict

The Audient ASP880 is a great choice for those who are looking for a quality 8-channel microphone preamp.

It offers transparent, world-class audio with just a hint of analog coloration.

Plus, it comes with free plugins and software to make your recordings sound even better. If you can afford it, the Audient ASP880 is a great option.

Apogee 8×8 Mic Preamp

Apogee 8x8 Mic Preamp

Apogee 8×8 Mic Preamp is one of the best on the market. It delivers pristine sound quality with its 8-mic preamps, making it perfect for professional studios.

With its easy-to-use interface and flexible modular design, it’s perfect for any musician who wants to take their recordings to the next level.

Features

  • 8 channels of AD/DA conversion
  • Ultra-low 1.35mS latency
  • User-friendly 4.3-inch TFT touchscreen display and front-panel controls
  • Easy to expand your setup as your needs grow
  • Outstanding per-channel value
  • Apogee Network Control software supplies remote control of Symphony I/O settings

Pros

  • Pristine sound quality
  • Flexible modular design
  • Easy-to-use interface

Cons

  • Some users have reported problems with the drivers

Verdict

Making the switch to an Apogee 8×8 Mic Preamp will make a world of difference in your recordings. The sound quality is pristine, and the ease of use is unmatched.

If you’re serious about taking your music to the next level, this is the audio interface for you.

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-channel Microphone Preamp

Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-channel Microphone Preamp

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-channel Microphone Preamp is a top-quality audio interface that offers premium sound quality and features.

This device is perfect for expanding the number of inputs and outputs available in your home studio and comes with a range of exclusive software that makes getting started easy.

With its class-leading 24-bit/192kHz conversion, 109dB dynamic range, and extensive software bundle, the Scarlett OctoPre provides everything you need to take your recordings to the next level.

Features

  • The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-channel Microphone Preamp is a top-quality audio interface that offers premium sound quality and features.
  • This device is perfect for expanding the number of inputs and outputs available in your home studio and comes with a range of exclusive software that makes getting started easy.
  • With its class-leading 24-bit/192kHz conversion, 109dB dynamic range, and extensive software bundle, the Scarlett OctoPre provides everything you need to take your recordings to the next level.

Pros

  • The ADAT output lets you expand the number of inputs and outputs in your home studio easily.
  • The Scarlett OctoPre comes with a comprehensive software bundle that includes everything you need to get started quickly.
  • The class-leading 24-bit/192kHz conversion and 109dB dynamic range deliver premium sound quality.

Cons

  • Some users have reported issues with the drivers for this device.

Verdict

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre 8-channel Microphone Preamp is a top-quality audio interface that offers premium sound quality and features.

This device is perfect for expanding the number of inputs and outputs available in your home studio and comes with a range of exclusive software that makes getting started easy.

With its class-leading 24-bit/192kHz conversion, 109dB dynamic range, and extensive software bundle, the Scarlett OctoPre provides everything you need to take your recordings to the next level.

Midas XL48 Mic Preamp

Midas XL48 Mic Preamp

The Midas XL48 Mic Preamp is one of the best mic preamps on the market. It offers 8 channels of amplification, each with variable gain, phase invert, pad, and phantom power selection switches. It also has high and low pass filters for each channel.

The XL48 also comes with a precision clock reference and word clock input/output connections. It’s housed in a standard 1U 19″ rackmount chassis and has an auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply.

Features

  • The Midas XL48 Mic Preamp is one of the best mic preamps on the market, offering 8 channels of amplification with variable gain, phase invert, pad, and phantom power selection switches
  • It also has high and low pass filters for each channel
  • Comes with a precision clock reference and word clock input/output connections
  • Housed in a standard 1U 19″ rackmount chassis with an auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply.

Pros

  • The Midas XL48 Mic Preamp is a top-of-the-line mic preamp that offers 8 channels of amplification with adjustable gain, phase invert, pad, and phantom power selection switches.
  • It also has high and low pass filters for each channel, as well as precision clock reference and word clock input/output connections.
  • All of this is housed in a standard 1U 19″ rackmount chassis with an auto-ranging universal switch-mode power supply.

Cons

  • Some users have found the XL48 to be noisy.

Verdict

The Midas XL48 Mic Preamp is a top-quality mic preamp that offers a great range of features and options. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a high-quality, expandable mic preamp for their home studio.

TASCAM SERIES 8p Dyna

TASCAM SERIES 8p Dyna

The TASCAM SERIES 8p Dyna is a top-notch solution for adding extra channels to your live or studio rig. It features 8 HDIA microphone preamps, which capture any source with natural, transparent sound.

There are also easy-to-use 1-knob compressors on each channel, for taming hot input signals. Plus, the compressors include true-bypass switching to safeguard your sound when they’re disengaged.

The SERIES 8p Dyna also has two instrument/microphone combo inputs that accommodate mics, guitars, basses, and more.

On the rear of the unit, you’ll find six balanced mic/line inputs that accommodate microphones and line-level equipment.

Plus, there is +48V phantom power for your condenser microphones and 52dB of gain on tap – enough for all but the most gain-hungry of vintage and modern microphones.

The SERIES 8p Dyna also includes dual S/MUX optical outputs for expanding your existing audio interface easily.

And it’s housed in a rugged metal enclosure so it can withstand the rigors of the stage and studio!

Features

  • Adds extra channels to your live or studio rig
  • HDIA microphone preamps capture any source with natural, transparent sound
  • Easy-to-use 1-knob compressors on each channel for taming hot input signals
  • Compressors include true-bypass switching to safeguard your sound when they’re disengaged
  • 2 instrument/microphone combo inputs accommodate mics, guitars, basses, and more
  • 6 balanced mic/line inputs accommodate microphones and line-level equipment
  • +48V phantom power for your condenser microphones
  • 52dB of gain on tap – works with all but the most gain-hungry of microphones
  • Dual S/MUX optical outputs make expanding your existing interface easy
  • 8 line-level analog outputs for routing signals to A/D converters, mixers, consoles, and more
  • Word clock I/O enables you to synchronize with your digital gear
  • Front-panel indicators make monitoring the device’s performance a piece of cake
  • Housed in a rugged metal, 1U rackmount enclosure

Pros

  • Eight high-quality microphone preamps
  • 1-knob compressors make it easy to tame hot input signals
  • True bypass switching on the compressors
  • Affordable price tag

Cons

  • No digital I/O
  • Some users have reported quality control issues with the preamps

Verdict

The TASCAM SERIES 8p Dyna is a great option for adding extra channels to your live or studio rig.

It offers eight high-quality microphone preamps, 1-knob compressors, true bypass switching, and an affordable price tag.

However, it lacks digital I/O, and some users have reported quality control issues with the preamps.

ART TubeOpto 8

ART TubeOpto 8

The ART TubeOpto 8 is an 8-channel tube preamp that features ADAT input and output connectors, making it perfect for expanding the I/O capabilities of your existing interface rig.

Each channel has a Class A vacuum tube mic preamp, 70dB of gain, and balanced 1/4″ phone or XLR inputs.

The TubeOpto 8 also includes two convenient front-mounted hi-Z instrument inputs. With its affordable per-preamp channel price, the TubeOpto 8 is an excellent value for any studio.

Features

  • Get the warm, natural sound of a tube preamp
  • Expand I/O capabilities with ADAT input and output
  • 8 fully featured Class-A tube mic preamps
  • Low per-channel price makes it an excellent value
  • 2 front-mounted hi-Z instrument inputs
  • 8 channels of ADAT digital 24-bit audio I/O at 44.1 or 48kHz
  • Input gain and output level controls on every channel
  • Input pad, phase flip and low-frequency roll-off switches on every channel
  • 8 1/4″ TRS Balanced Outputs

Pros

  • Great sound
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable

Cons

  • None

Verdict

The ART TubeOpto 8 is a great-sounding, easy-to-use, and affordable 8-channel tube preamp that is perfect for expanding the I/O capabilities of your existing interface rig.

It is a highly recommended ADAT preamp for mid size studios!

RME OctaMic XTC

RME OctaMic XTC

RME’s OctaMic XTC is a top-of-the-line 8-channel preamp, digital converter, and USB interface all rolled into one.

Whether you need to connect a low-output dynamic microphone or an extra-hot line-level sound source, the OctaMic XTC delivers the analog input you need.

With its pristine microphone preamps and AutoSet technology, you can be sure that your recordings will sound great every time.

Plus, with its extensive digital output, the OctaMic XTC provides connectivity with virtually any digital gear.

If you’re looking for a high-end Preamp, the RME OctaMic XTC is a great option.

Features

  • Get the best audio interface for your home studio
  • 8 XLR combo inputs
  • Pristine microphone preamps and AutoSet
  • Extensive digital output for connectivity with any digital gear
  • USB 2.0 connectivity for high-end recording without a full studio rig

Pros

  • Top-of-the-line audio quality
  • 8 channels
  • Features RME’s pristine microphone preamps
  • AutoSet function for automatic gain reduction
  • USB 2.0 connectivity

Cons

  • None that we could find!

Verdict

The RME OctaMic XTC is a top-of-the-line 8-channel preamp, digital converter, and USB interface all rolled into one.

If you’re looking for the best audio quality possible, the OctaMic XTC is a great option.

Adat Preamp Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the right audio interface for your home studio, there are a few key factors you need to take into account.

In this section, I will give you some tips on what to look for when purchasing an ADAT preamp.

Channel Count

preamp channel count

First and foremost, you need to decide how many channels you need.

Do you only need one or 2 channels for a simple home studio setup, or do you need 8 channels for a more complex rig?

Once you know how many channels you need, you can narrow down your options and choose the right preamp for your needs.

Inputs and Outputs

preamp inputs and outputs

Next, you need to take a look at the I/O capabilities of the preamp.

Does it have enough input and output jacks for your needs?

Does it have digital I/O?

If you need more than two channels, you will need to find a preamp with ADAT input and output connectors so you can expand the I/O of your interface.

Brand Value

You also need to take into account the brand value when choosing a preamp.

There are a lot of great brands out there that make high-quality products, so make sure you do your research and choose a preamp from a reputable company.

Now that you know what to look for in an ADAT preamp, let’s take a look at some of the best options on the market.

Price

As with any purchase, you need to take into account the price of the product.

Don’t overspend on a preamp just because it has a lot of features that you may never use.

Do your research and find a preamp that has the features you need at a price you can afford.

Customer Reviews & Ratings

You should always read customer reviews and ratings before making a purchase.

This is a great way to get an idea of how the product performs in real-world situations and whether or not it is worth the price.

Quality and Durability

Finally, you need to make sure the preamp is well-made and will last for years to come.

Check out online forums and read customer reviews to get an idea of the quality and durability of the preamps you are considering.

Conclusion

There are a lot of great Adat preamps on the market, but the ones listed above are some of the best.

When choosing a preamp, make sure to take into account the brand value, features and specifications, product value, customer reviews and ratings, and quality and durability.

With so many great options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect Adat preamp for your needs.

Let me know in the comment section below if you have any questions or suggestions.

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Gautam Roy is a recording engineer and a blogger from India. He loves music, writing, and travelling. He is also an active investor and a successful entrepreneur.

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