Here's an unscientific shootout of various preamps on a monochord. The monochord is a very "full rangey" sounding instrument which makes it good for these types of tests. Again just gives you an idea of what different preamps can do to the same source. The mics used were a pair of Schoeps MK-2 into the above preamp and then into Lavry Blue A/D. Thanks to IVO Sedlacek at Velvet Mastering for the test
The Cransesong and the A-Designs seem the most rich. However i own the A-Design, I prefer the Cransesong in this test. (it also seems to have the best performance...coincidence?) The other three don't have the resonance or air that the Cransesong and A-Desins have.
I agree with shelterr and can't get over the earth shaking lows the Cranesong delivered along with a rich full range all the way up there! I thought the Forssell was very detailed and liked it. The Pacifica did it's magic and the sheen was beautiful but I have to give it to the Cranesong Flamingo on this recording of the monochord.
The forssell has a 3D quality to it that the others don't seem to capture from the monochord... I also feel like the instrument is right in front of me, very natural and real sounding... Great if that's what you want.
