I will soon be in a position to be able to get some compression and equalization options. I have a couple of decent preamps (but not great).
At this point, I'm thinking I'd do best with a channel.
My mics (which I am pleased with) include:
Charter Oak 583B
Shure SM-7b
AT 4050
Shure 57 and Beta 58a
(and a couple others which are not coming to my mind--and for that reason should probably get rid of).
I'm considering one of the following for the purpose of vocals, acoustic guitar, and then other acoustic instruments (percussion, etc.). Also electric guitar. In order of current preference:
1) Millennia STT-1
2) BuzzAudio ARC
3) Pendulum Audio Quartet
I've leaned away from Tubetech MEC1A and Avalon 737.
Any guidance or experience on the 3 listed channels above. +/-. I'm looking for versatility. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

although i have no experience with the STT-1, i have used Millennia preamps, and while they are transparent, i found them sterile compared to the Pendulum Audio MDP-1 preamp, which is the same preamp that's in the Quartet. So my favorites in order of preference would be the exact reverse of your list:
1) Pendulum Audio Quartet
2) Buzz Audio ARC-1.1
3) Millennia STT-1

if you can swing the bucks, the Quartet II Mercenary Edition looks better than the original Quartet, including a very handy brickwall analogue limiter that i have heard good things about around here. i can't speak about the parts of the Quartet other than the preamp with authority (because i have only used the preamp), but that limiter and the EQ section of the Quartet II look cool !!

all of this of course JMHO.

i'm sure some other people will jump in, sorry i don't really know a lot about the Buzz Audio channel but i have heard great things and Tim Farrant is a genius.


good luck and let us know what you get!

cheers,
J.D.

Yes, he is.