Inexpensive Line-level Amp/Attenuator, Looking for some new hardware Options

[Canar]

I'm looking for an inexpensive line-level amp and attenuator. What I want to do with it is insert it into a signal chain so that when the signal is too loud I can turn it down, and when it is too quiet, I can turn it up. I've seen some products, I just thought you guys probably know even better.

Here's the problem: My E-MU 0404, which can pre-amplify signals well doesn't handle over-powering well. My Audio 8 DJ, which has no pre-amp, is maybe 20dB quieter. There's a range of signals for which the E-MU is too loud and the A8DJ is too quiet. This will be used in live performance contexts. I can't simply record and change gain afterwards.

I'd prefer RCA ins/outs. 2 channel, ideally. More is acceptable.

[Engelsstaub]

Tascam

...that's what I'm thinking of getting pretty soon. I need it for needledrop captures. I'm not sure what you would find to be acceptably inexpensive though. Unfortunately I'll have no real experience with it to share until I actually buy it.

[Canar]

I'm looking for just an amplifier/attenuator, not a whole new interface. This will increase the usefulness of both of my current interfaces. The E-MU has great RMAA results. The A8DJ has great drivers.

This post has been edited by Canar: Jul 15 2012, 07:09

[Arnold B. Kruege...]

I'm looking for an inexpensive line-level amp and attenuator. What I want to do with it is insert it into a signal chain so that when the signal is too loud I can turn it down, and when it is too quiet, I can turn it up. I've seen some products, I just thought you guys probably know even better.

Here's the problem: My E-MU 0404, which can pre-amplify signals well doesn't handle over-powering well. My Audio 8 DJ, which has no pre-amp, is maybe 20dB quieter. There's a range of signals for which the E-MU is too loud and the A8DJ is too quiet. This will be used in live performance contexts. I can't simply record and change gain afterwards.

I'd prefer RCA ins/outs. 2 channel, ideally. More is acceptable.

Attenuation is simple:

Attenuators - pick the ones with the right attenuation and connectors.

[RonaldDumsfeld]

I initially solved a broadly similar problem by getting a mixer.

Peavey, Mackie and Soundcraft, among others, make decent quality small footprint models. Although I suspect this would involve spending more cash than you would wish at this time. It's the classic solution though.

A better long term solution might be to sell on the E-MU and Audio 8 now and replace with a suitable multichannel audio interface. RME Fireface or Babyface would be the gold standard but the new Focusrite 8i6 would fit the bill and keep things neat.