The market size for digital audio interfaces and computer based digital editing has increased in a massive way. With systems available at very low prices, more and more users are utilizing this technology. One of the main problems with many of these systems is the input stage only consisting of unbalanced line inputs or very low (or no mic pre) gain structure for the balanced input stage and the unavailability of phantom power. The Q-Pre comes to the rescue with 4 channels of balanced input, with a full range of gain control from -20dB to +40dB and phantom power switchable for channel 1 and 2 (in pairs). The unit is housed in a stylish extruded aluminium external chassis that can be rack-mounted.