Mark: Thanks for the reply. Basically I wanted to replace my old 4-track and amps with some kind of digital software, so i bought the Logic Production Kit... the old mics I had were very simple consumer models with basic 1/4 inch connectors -attached- ...radio shack models,basically. being new to all of this, I had no idea about XLR connections. Mic preamps I understand a little better. However, what kind of connection is coming out of the other end of the preamp: xlr in, presumably rca out? On the behringersite, I came across this mic preamp : http://www.behringer.com/02_products/prodindex.cfm?id=MIC100&lang=eng the price of which makes me a little happier, considering it doesn't look all that bad. Looking at the rear view, there seems to be an xlr in, and dual (stereo?) rca out... and this preamp is how you adjust the input levels of the mic to maximise fidelity etcetera...right? Thank you so much for your advice so far... I have been alternately confused and excited since I opened the Logic box, and having even the most inane of my constant questions answered is a relief.