I think the MXB1002 is the lowest
cost Behr mixer with anything like two direct outs.

The phantom power of an MXB1002 is 23V, probably won't drive your Neumann
mic properly.

I'm more worried about the sound quality of the Behr's preamps... Behr
is cheap, and I can always use the functionality, but my gut tells me
the sound of a dedicated pre (DMMP3) is going to be noticeably
superior.

At the DMP3's pricepoint, the VU meters are a serious waste of money. It's
just an Audio Buddy with window dressing. There is no way that the pre's
are any better than the typical Behringer/Mackie stuff, just like the rest
of M-Audio's product line.

If I were you I'd get a Soundcraft Notepad and M-Audio Transit. I can
attest that the Notepad sounds better (even going through the mixer through
the main outs) than the MXB1002's direct outputs. The MXB is a much more
versatile unit, but if it's simple good tone you're after, the Notepad goes
for ~$80 on eBay, $150-ish new. There are other sub-compact mixers from
Soundcraft now, but I thought the Notepad did better than their E-series,
for example, more on par with the FX16. The Transit's minijack input is
something you don't want to use in the field, but should be fine at home,
only about $80 as well. That leaves you plenty for a DI.