Audio Interfaces and Mic preamps

[Average Joe]

I'm kind of devising a Christmas list and I needed some help. I've already decided to get the MXL 990/991 Mic package because it's a great deal and everyone says they sound great. The next order of a business is the interface and preamp. I've looked around and with every one I find, there's either bad reviews or it isn't exactly what I need. I just started checking out the Toneport UX1 by Line 6 and they say that it's both a preamp and an interface. It also comes with some pretty good (I hear) recording software. I'm really considering this, but I'm not too sure. Let me know if it's any good or if I should keep looking. Keep in mind I'm on a low budget. After the microphones, I'm only allowed about a $250 budget.

[Average Joe]

Strike that. I just remembered the UX1 doesn't have phantom power. It also doesn't have 2 mic inputs, so that kinda defeats the purpose of 2 mics. I think I'll go to my backup plan and get the SM57. It's the same price so there's no change in the budget.

[AndrewC]

Hey,

I just ordered an Edirol (by Roland) UA-25ex. Check that one out. It usually goes for $240 and even sports an analog compressor/limiter. As for software, I have been using Reaper for a while (www.reaper.fm (http://www.reaper.fm)). It's quite good and comes with a host of plugins.