Sound Skulptor MP12

Transistor preamp + processor (input / output)
For my part, I took the options closest to the api 512c
input and output XLR input di also available.
integrated into a 1u rack 19
gain input and output
Phantom power
Attenuation (3 positions)
Phase inversion

The preamp has almost everything you may need a preamp, except may be a low cut (in the range, only possesses MP66)

UTILIZATION

this is a preamp, who knows how to use a preamp is like another.
Levels are indicated by an LED that turns green, then red when clipping, it may be a little lightweight at this level, but the DAW and soft sound cards also possess the meters

SOUND QUALITY

This is an excellent preamp that distills its very clean, with well marked transient.
The sound is typical midrange and very dynamic.
Headroom is impressive, I've never used a "bottom".
I look forward to finally buy a micro tape, because I feel that the MP12 is the perfect companion.

If you want instead to highlight the dynamics of the sound side, this amp is excellent (rhythmic, energetic voice, etc.)

I never had the opportunity to try on a snare drum, but it is also the type of sound that would correspond.

OVERALL OPINION

I learned there are 2 to 3 years, I could compare with her two acolytes (MP66 and MP73). each of the three has its own sound and its place as needed.

The value for money is pretty good, even if the investment of time to mount is to take into account.

I tend to repeat this choice or even add more with different options (op amp and transformer lundahll SK99) to optenir sound less colorful.

Options transformers and op amp (fewer than in the past) already allow some interresting combinations)

I assembled it myself, it's transistors. I had taken at the same time and two MP73 MP32. The installation is very simple if you're careful.

UTILIZATION

The manual explains how to set everything up and also how to use the preamp with two gain stages over a knob output.

SOUND QUALITY

Of the three models I have, I am the best and most versatile. The sound is slightly more colorful or more (depending on your settings). But it's never mushy. The color is reminiscent of the API (in direct comparison the MP12 is a bit lower, but much cheaper).

OVERALL OPINION

I have lots of preamps in the studio, and it is used regularly.
With experience, I would do this choice. I give a rating that ranges from "very good" and "excellent".