I got my hands on a mic pre that uses the Neutrik Combo connector for
inputs. While this is handy for using either 1/4" or XLR cables, just from
looking at it it seems like there would possibly be some mating problems, as
compared to traditional 1/4" and XLR connectors. Has anyone had good or bad
experiences with these connectors?

On another note, I have the opportunity to pick up a lower end mic pre to
use in a project studio. Mics are pretty good, Rode NT1a and NT2 condensers.
I have heard some good things about the Presonus BlueTube and DigiTube mic
pre's, but from what research I have done on here and Google it seems that
the Symetrix 302 is almost universally agreed upon as an excellent
inexpensive mic pre, better than anything comparable in the ~$300 price
range, including anything by Behringer, ART, PreSonus, and at least as good
or better than the pre's in the Mackie 1202 and the JoeMeek 3Q. Can anyone
comment on this assessment?

-Ben