Looking to build a very basic recording setup

I was not impressed with the speaker simulation in the rectifier preamp. Is your requirement to record direct from the preamp as opposed to mic'ing the cab?

 

I'm not an expert but you should be able to do everything you need with a single Shure SM57 and no mic preamp assuming you have XLR inputs on your recorder. The basic technique is to point the mic at the edge of the speaker cone as an inch or so away from the grille cloth but don't be afraid to experiment.

If you're recording in a nice sounding room, a condensor mic such as the MXL 2001 a few feet from the speaker will capture some room ambience which will sound good for more mellow tones. For that you'd need a mic preamp such as the Presonus Tube Pre.

 

Here's what I would suggest.

Since the PXR4 doesn't have a mic preamp (they're line in's only I believe) I'd consider getting a

- sm57
- studio projects vtb-1 preamp
http://www.studioprojectsusa.com/vtb1.html

Get 'em both for under $200 total, and improve your recorded guitar sound 1000%. Just run the line outs from the vtb-1 into the pxr4 line in.

 

IMO that question comes down to sound... tubes add another level of distortion and harmonics that some find pleasing. But I don't think that necessarily means tube equipment is better just another flavor of color. On the vtb-1 it can be blended in which is a cool feature...

 

I think the Presonus Tube Pre would do you just as well and it's dirt cheap. I sold mine for $60 a few weeks ago.

 

when the "blend" knob is fully CCW, it is all solid state.

I would get a SS transparent preamp first, then get tube preamps if you like.

 

I second the SM-57, all around workhorse and great for micing cabs. I use an ART Studio V3Tube pre, sounds good for the money

http://artproaudio.com/products_main.asp?cat=1&id=58&type=79&show=

You probably have more horse power in your PC than that 4 tracker and you'll get a lot more tracks to use too...just a thought