Reply To: Preamp or D/I for Melodica
Hello Binyomin, I use a few things to boost the volume and they all work good. I would start with an inline transformer, from Melodica It’s a phono to xlr then xlr to phono, I purchased it at radio shack but you can find them on eBay. This is the cheapest way to go. The next option is a DI with EQ and drive, I use the Sanamp Paradrive dI a bit more about $175 depending on who you buy it from. You can use a clean boost pedal, like the Katana clean boost the simple mini version actually works good and it is 1/2 the cost out the larger version. I recently purchased a API Tranzformer pedal that is fantastic with the great API EQ, a driver and compresor all in one pedal, unfortunately this one carries a large price tag and it is externally heavy for a pedal. All these items will bring your level up, some will help with color (tone) but if all you need is a line boost start with the in line transformer first and see if that works for you. If you email me on my monsters of Melodica Facebook page I will shoot you a picture of my set up. Here is the one available on eBay
Thanks
Hope this helps
Melodica-Me