Summit Audio 2BA-221

[RHCNYC]

Was a 'pricey' purchase for my home studio, but to my ears, it was well worth it. I previously owned the PreSonus BlueTube, and that's my reference point for the difference in audio.

Using an AT 4040, SM57/58/Beta, and comparing the two, I found the Summit to have a bit more... presence. It seemed to be a lot more sensitive to the Mic's output. I initially noticed this effect when I whispered into the mic. The Summit seemed to pick up all the tiny details. It was a lot more dimensional.

As for regular vocals, the Summit had a 'smoother' sound, while remaining crispy and detailed. The Presonus seemed a bit more 'tinny'. I wasn't aware of this 'tinny-ness' until I heard the difference between the two.

I also recorded acoustic guitar with both. They were both pretty good, though the summit seemed to bring out a bit more detail and body.

I also heard a huge difference when it came to recording Bass guitar. That really jumped out at me. The Summit had a lot more fullness in the lower frequencies, and didn't seem to go into clipping mode while still outputting good volume.

I'm someone that usually does my best to avoid buying into the (often expensive) hype, and look for the best bang for my buck. I gotta say, this was a worthwhile investment. I really was inspired by the better quality of this preamp, and feel like my recordings have gone up a notch.

It's also built like a tank, and you can peek inside and see the quality of the soldering and the components, as well as the knobs. It looks like it was hand built by a audio geek, as compared to my PreSonus, which feels like it was assembly line built by worker #49385 eager to get to his lunch break.

Peace

[garageband]

This thing is really good. In fact, it's crazy good with the Røde NT3. Like James Taylor good on an acoustic guitar - one mic! And pretty amazing as a drum OH mic. But then: tragedy! It broke. I brought another home. It broke! I took it back to Sweetwater and got fixed up with a Millenia HV-3C - not that these are anything alike. Also had to sell the Røde 'cause it didn't sound nearly as good through any of the other preamps I had.

I still miss this little bugger.

[tremendo]

Hello!!!
I'm new on recording.
I own the 2BA-221 since 2006 but is new cause i have not use it i also own the summit TLA-50 and the same thing, is new too.
The thing is that i don't know how to use them.
Can you tell me how? or give me a setting for like classical guitar?

Thank you!!!!!

[RHCNYC]

Here are some instructions:
2BA-221 Microphone & Line Module | FAQ | Summit Audio

There is a lot of different advice for recording guitars. I'd suggest looking around online to find some suggestions (which usually stick, more or less, to typical conventions).

It's an excellent preamp. Hopefully with a little digging, you'll find some solutions.

Lots of experimenting (also depending on your mic, etc) will help.

[muzicmaken]

I'm really considering this preamp....I have a Grace m101 but am wanting to get the Summit Audio 2BA-221...to replace the Grace...

Any more comments on the SA is appreciated...


ken

[RHCNYC]

I already own the Summit Audio, and was considering picking up a Grace m101 for a different flavor.

From what I understand, the Grace will have a very super clean signal, while the Summit, due it's tube n' whatnot, will have some coloration (but the nice kind).

These were the two preamps I narrowed my search down to, and had a hard time choosing between the two. I ended up with the Summit because they didn't have the Grace, making it "easier" to choose.

I'll be honest. Since I don't own both preamps, I couldn't tell you what the significant difference would be. I hear they're both excellent preamps.

I found many reviews online that gave thorough reviews of each.

If you're going to sell the Grace to buy the Summit, I'd dig around to make sure it's what you want to do. If you are going to buy the Summit in addition to keeping the Grace, and have the $ to spare, go for it. You can then return/sell either one if you find yourself liking one more than the other.

[muzicmaken]

you're right the Grace is super clean...IN fact IMO too clean....

IT's a a great pre but somethings need a little color and the Grace affords no color at all..


That's why I was looking at the Summit Audio 2AB-221


ken