virus and preamps?

[Panopticon]

Originally Posted by Wandering Kid

what does the valve pre do to the sound?

Depends completely on what you're using, and the signal you're passing through it. It's usually done to warm things up and give them more analog characteristics (i.e.-make it sound less digital, basically). Results may very (also, a decent pre (tube or no tube) is probably considered spendy to most budgets, we're not talking Presonus or ARS here. We're talking Neve, API, Manley, Focusrite Red, Great River, Vintech, etc.)

Also, if you want flat-out the best compressor for treating your signal (with audible, but desirable artifacts), look no further than the Empirical Labs Distressor. It costs, but it'll really kick your ass.

Finally, and most importantly, bear in mind that no gear makes the monkey using it into anything other than a monkey...