7 Best 8 Channel Mic Preamp with ADAT for Pro Recording

Are you looking to expand your recording setup? Do you need more high-quality inputs for your studio? Your audio interface needs more microphone inputs. Expanding your studio requires versatile new tools. The 8-channel mic preamp is a perfect upgrade. It adds eight pristine microphone channels. ADAT connectivity makes this process very simple. One optical cable connects the two devices. This single cord carries all eight channels. Your setup remains clean and very efficient.

Suddenly, you can record a full drum kit. Tracking an entire live band becomes a reality. Recording full bands is now within reach. These units also offer superior sound quality. They bypass your interface’s own stock preamps. Hear your microphones with amazing new clarity. This simple upgrade brings professional results home. Your projects gain a new level of polish.

Choosing the right model can be a challenging task. Many different options exist on the market. We explore features, sound, and overall value. I compare all the most popular models. We analyze their unique strengths and weaknesses. Let’s find your studio’s next great centerpiece.

7 Best 8 Channel Mic Preamp with ADAT for Live Recording – Reviews:

1. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 –

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 features are excellent. This makes it a great choice for home studios. It provides 18 inputs and 20 outputs. This includes 8 Midas-designed mic preamps. These preamps are known for their clean and quiet performance. The UMC1820 is an excellent starting point for any aspiring producer. It gives you plenty of room to grow.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 10 x 1/4″ TRS
• Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, in banks of 4
• Connectivity: USB 2.0

Features –

The UMC1820 is packed with useful features. It has Midas-designed preamps. These deliver exceptional audio quality. The unit also offers digital I/O. This includes ADAT and S/PDIF. This allows for easy expansion of your setup.

Two headphone outputs are also included. These have individual volume controls. This is perfect for collaborating with other musicians. The UMC1820 is built to last. It has a sturdy metal chassis.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• High-quality Midas preamps
• Plenty of I/O options
• Rugged build quality
• Easy to set up and use

Cons:

• Phantom power is not switchable per channel
• Some users report low input levels

Why Use This Product?

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 is an excellent choice for those on a budget. It offers features found on more expensive interfaces. The Midas preamps provide a clean and transparent sound. This makes it a great option for recording vocals and instruments. The extensive I/O allows for a flexible recording setup. It is a solid foundation for any home studio.

2.  Behringer ADA8200 Microphone Preamp with ADAT –

The Behringer ADA8200 is a popular and best 8-channel mic preamp. It is an upgrade to the well-regarded ADA8000. This new version features Midas-designed preamps. It also has improved Cirrus Logic converters.

The ADA8200 is a great way to add more inputs to your existing audio interface. It connects via ADAT. This makes it a seamless addition to many setups.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 8 x XLR
• Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, global switch
• Connectivity: ADAT

Features –

The ADA8200 is known for its simplicity and reliability. The Midas-designed preamps offer a clean and clear sound. The unit is very easy to set up.

You just connect it to your interface via ADAT. The front panel has gain controls for each channel. There are also signal and clip LEDs.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• Very affordable
• Midas-designed preamps
• Easy to expand your I/O
• Solid build quality
• Clean and transparent sound

Cons:

• Global phantom power switch
• Limited to 48kHz sample rate

Why Use This Product?

The Behringer ADA8200 is the cheapest mic preamp on this list. It is a fantastic option for expanding your studio. It provides 8 extra channels of high-quality preamps. The Midas preamps are a significant upgrade over the older model. The ADA8200 is a workhorse. It is a reliable and cost-effective solution for any studio.

3. Focusrite Clarett 8 Pre Studio Grade Audio Interface (18 in 20 out):

The Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre is designed for established producers and engineers. The Clarett+8Pre features eight high-performance mic preamps. These preamps have an “Air” mode. This mode emulates the sound of Focusrite’s classic ISA preamps. This adds a beautiful high-end sheen to your recordings.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 10 x 1/4″ TRS
• Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, switchable per channel
• Connectivity: USB-C

Features –

The Clarett + 8Pre is a feature-rich interface. The “Air” mode is a standout feature. It adds a unique character to your recordings. The preamps are incredibly clean and low-noise. The unit also has a very low latency.

This is great for tracking and monitoring. The included software bundle is also excellent. It provides a great selection of plugins to get you started.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality
• “Air” mode adds a unique character
• Very low latency
• Excellent build quality
• Great software bundle

Cons:

• More expensive than some other options
• Focusrite Control software can be confusing for beginners

Why Use This Product?

This is perfect for professional studios. The sound quality is outstanding. The “Air” mode is a fantastic creative tool. The low latency makes it a joy to work with. If you are serious about your recordings, the Clarett+ 8Pre is a fantastic investment.

4. Audient EVO SP8 8 Channel Mic Pre (8 ADAT Inputs & Outputs):

The Audient EVO SP8 is a smart best 8 channel mic preamp. It is designed for modern musicians and producers. The SP8 features eight EVO microphone preamps. These preamps are clean and detailed. The standout feature is “Smartgain.”

This feature automatically sets the gain levels for you. This is a huge time-saver. It is perfect for recording drums or a full band.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 8 x 1/4″ TRS
• Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, switchable per channel
• Connectivity: ADAT

Features –

The EVO SP8 is all about workflow. The “Smartgain” feature is a game-changer. It makes setting levels quick and easy. The unit also has a high-resolution LCD screen.

This provides clear visual feedback. The SP8 has a sleek and modern design. It looks great on any desktop. It can also be rack-mounted.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• “Smartgain” feature is a huge time-saver
• Excellent sound quality
• Sleek and modern design
• High-resolution LCD screen
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Some users may prefer manual gain control
• The plastic knobs feel a bit cheap

Why Use This Product?

The Audient EVO SP8 is a fantastic choice for the modern studio. The “Smartgain” feature is incredibly useful. It takes the guesswork out of setting levels. The sound quality is excellent. The SP8 is a great tool for streamlining your recording process. It is a very innovative and user-friendly preamp.

5. Tascam US 16×08 USB Audio MIDI Interface Recording (8 XLR 8 1/4 Inputs & 8 Outputs)

The Tascam US-16×08 is a rackmount USB audio interface. It is designed for recording larger sessions. The US-16×08 offers 16 inputs and 8 outputs. This includes eight Ultra-HDDA mic preamps.

These preamps are known for their clean and quiet performance. The US-16×08 is a great choice for recording drums or live bands.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR, 8 x 1/4″ TRS
• Outputs: 8 x 1/4″ TRS
• Resolution: 24-bit/96kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, for XLR inputs
• Connectivity: USB 2.0

Features –

The Tascam US-16×08 is a workhorse interface. The Ultra-HDDA preamps provide a lot of clean gain. This is great for a variety of microphones. The angled design of the front panel is very ergonomic.

It makes it easy to see and adjust the controls. The included DSP mixer is also very powerful. It allows you to create custom monitor mixes with zero latency.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• Plenty of inputs for larger sessions
• Clean and quiet preamps
• Ergonomic design
• Powerful DSP mixer
• Great value for the price

Cons:

• Only 8 of the inputs have mic preamps
• The drivers can be a bit finicky on some systems

Why Use This Mic Preamp?

The Tascam US-16×08 is a great option for those who need a lot of inputs. The eight mic preamps are high-quality. The extra line inputs are great for connecting keyboards and other gear. The ergonomic design and DSP mixer make it a pleasure to use. It is a very capable and affordable interface for larger recording projects.

6. Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre Mic Preamp –

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre is the best 8-channel mic preamp expansion unit. It is part of the popular Scarlett series from Focusrite. The OctoPre features eight second-generation Scarlett preamps.

These preamps are known for their clean and natural sound. The OctoPre is a great way to add more inputs to your Scarlett interface or any other interface with an ADAT input.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 8 x 1/4″ TRS
• Resolution: 24-bit/192kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, in banks of 4
• Connectivity: ADAT

Features –

The Scarlett OctoPre is a simple and effective preamp. The second-generation Scarlett preamps sound great. They are clean, clear, and have plenty of headroom.

The unit is very easy to set up and use. The front panel has gain controls and metering for each channel. The OctoPre also has two high-headroom instrument inputs.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality
• Easy to expand your I/O
• Clean and natural-sounding preamps
• Solid build quality
• Great value for the price

Cons:

• Phantom power is not switchable per channel
• No “Air” mode like the Clarett series

Why Use This Product?

The Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre is a great choice for expanding your studio. It is a perfect match for any Scarlett interface. The sound quality is excellent for the price. The preamps are clean and versatile. The OctoPre is a reliable and affordable way to add more inputs to your setup.

7. Behringer ULTRAGAIN ADA8000 – 8 Channel  Audiophile Digital Mic Preamp with ADAT

The Behringer ULTRAGAIN PRO-8 DIGITAL ADA8000 is an 8-channel A/D and D/A converter. It also features eight “Invisible” Mic Preamps. The ADA8000 is a classic piece of gear.

It has been a popular choice for budget-conscious studios for many years. It is a simple and effective way to add more I/O to your setup via ADAT.

Specifications:

• Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS combo
• Outputs: 8 x XLR
• Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
• Phantom Power: Yes, global switch
• Connectivity: ADAT

Features –

The ADA8000 is a no-frills unit that gets the job done. The “Invisible” Mic Preamps are surprisingly clean for the price. The unit is very easy to use.

The front panel has gain controls and signal/clip LEDs for each channel. The ADA8000 is a reliable and affordable way to expand your studio’s capabilities.

Pros and Cons –

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Clean and functional preamps
• Easy way to add more I/O
• Solid build quality
• A classic and proven design

Cons:

• Global phantom power switch
• Limited to 48kHz sample rate
• The sound quality is not on par with more expensive units

Why Use This Product?

The Behringer ULTRAGAIN PRO-8 DIGITAL ADA8000 is a budget-friendly option for expanding your studio. It is a great choice for those who are just starting out.

It provides 8 extra channels of preamps and conversion for a very low price. While it may not be the cleanest mic preamp, it is a very functional and reliable unit.

Buying Guide: Selecting Your Ideal 8-channel mic preamp –

Expanding your studio’s input count is crucial. An 8-channel mic preamp offers this power. It unlocks multitrack recording for ambitious projects. This guide helps you find the perfect unit. We explore several excellent options for you. Let’s find the best preamp for your needs. Your sound deserves a significant sonic upgrade.

How to Choose the Right Mic Preamp –

Choosing your ideal preamp requires careful thought. Consider your specific recording needs first. What kind of connectivity do you require? Some units are standalone preamps with ADAT. Others function as complete audio interfaces. Your existing setup determines the best choice.

Sound quality is another very important factor. Do you want clean, transparent audio capture? Or do you prefer a colored, vintage tone? Each preamp has its own unique character. Features like Smartgain can simplify your workflow. Finally, your personal budget guides the decision. Find the best balance of features and cost.

Each unit has a very specific main focus. The best preamp depends entirely on your needs.

Main Focus for Buying –

• Behringer UMC1820: This is a comprehensive, all-in-one interface that offers the best overall value for the starting price.
• Behringer ADA8200: This is a fantastic budget-friendly studio upgrade. It is a simple and affordable expander.
• Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre: This unit offers premium professional audio quality. It is the perfect choice for producers.
• Audient EVO SP8: This smart preamp provides automated level setting. Its Smartgain feature saves you valuable time.
• Tascam US-16×08: This unit has the most input versatility. It is a reliable workhorse for studios.
• Focusrite Scarlett OctoPre: The Scarlett OctoPre expands Scarlett interfaces perfectly. It adds eight natural-sounding Scarlett preamps.
• Behringer ADA8000: The ADA8000 is the most affordable expander. It is a legendary and popular budget unit.

The Best Preamp for Quality –

The best preamp for quality is the Focusrite Clarett+ 8Pre.

It offers truly exceptional microphone preamp quality. The description calls it a premium, professional unit. Its preamps provide the best audio clarity. The special “Air” feature adds a classic sheen. This makes it best for pure sound quality.

Why Trust These Reviews And Products?

I carefully research and select these products. Personally base our choices on many factors. I also check all the product specifications. All the products are from well-known brands. The brands are known for their great quality. They are known for reliability and performance. We are confident these products will help you.

Final Verdict –

Your studio’s potential is now much clearer. An 8-channel preamp is a powerful tool. It greatly expands your creative recording options. ADAT makes connecting your new gear simple. One single cable unlocks eight more inputs. You can finally record a full drum kit. Tracking an entire band becomes much easier. The sonic upgrade is also very significant. Better preamps capture much clearer audio signals. Your microphones reveal their true sonic character. This brings a new professional sound quality. Your final mixes will sound much better.

Choosing the best preamp depends on your needs. Audient offers fantastic clarity for its price. The Behringer UMC1820 is great for home use. It has great features for its price. The Tascam US-16×08 excels for recording drums. It has many inputs and clean preamps. The Focusrite Clarett+ is a pro choice. Focusrite provides excellent value for home studios. It offers amazing sound and pro features.

Some preamps offer extra vintage-style color. Others provide clean and transparent gain. Consider your specific studio needs and budget. Think about the instruments you record most. The right choice depends on your workflow. The models reviewed represent the market’s best. You now have all the needed information. You can make a very confident decision. Choose the preamp that inspires your music. Enjoy your new professional recording workflow. Trust your ears to make the final call.

FAQs –

Q1. Why do I need an 8-channel preamp?

It lets you record multiple mics at once. You can easily record an entire drum kit. It improves your overall recording sound quality.

Q2. How does it connect to an interface?

Most preamps connect to your audio interface. They use a digital ADAT optical cable. This single cable carries all eight channels.

Q3. What does the ADAT connection actually do?

ADAT is a common digital audio format. It sends eight channels over one cable. This keeps your audio signal perfectly pure.

Q4. Do expensive preamps really sound much better?

Yes, they use higher-quality internal components. They produce less noise and more headroom. Many add desirable warmth and sonic character.

Q5. Can I record a full drum kit?

Yes, this is a very popular use. You can mic kick, snare, and toms. You still have channels for overhead mics.

Last Updated on October 15, 2025 by Perry Garner