Does anyone have an opinion about the Hamptone HVTP2 preamp kits? Particularly the tube model? Looks good at a glance...I really need some real mic preamps, and I don't really have a lot of cash.

Barring that, any suggestions along similar lines?

Have you checked the TapeOp messageboards?

For other, less expensive kits, there's Op-Amp Labs, if you're ok with building your own DC power supply (or building theirs).

i have built both models, i think there wonderful. and real fun to build. i didnt have any major snags that couldn't be figured out by using my noggin. the tube kit i did first and went smooth.fired right up.the jfet kit i did 2nd, when i got finished all my voltages were correct but only one channel worked. the 2nd channel was outputting only buzz, like grounding buzz. so i'm scratching my head trying to figure this out. then i stare at the pcb for a while, don't see anything. so i continuity test some traces and figure out theres two traces connected where the solvent didnt etch away the copper.the short was between the tip and ground on the di input right before the transformer.i think. anyways i cut through the short with a knife and works perfect. i suppose you'll have that out of so many pcb's.i don't recommend if you don't have pacionts and a decent soldering iron.
i learned a lot and have some cool mic pres that "I MADE!"
i like them. light years ahead of any crap(mackie-art-blah blah) i've never used hardy or neve,daking, but i'm sure there right up there.
ike

i own both the tube and the jfet. these preamps rule. i have used neve, hardys, etc and these are right up there with them. i have a particular soft spot for the tube preamp. the jfet is great too, but it breaks up quite a bit earlier so it's not as versatile, but it is kick ass on the right source/mic combo.
you will not regret owning either of these preamps.

mike

I ordered the JFET last week and cannot wait for it to get here. I've got so many unfinished projects laying around, but I have a feeling this one will get me back on track.

-Darrill

I spent a few seconds trying to figure out what the fuck "pationts" is. A new kind of solder? A flux brand?

Then it hit me: "patience".

Wow.