[Mking]

Originally Posted by MrErikJ

I have both and have liked both but they are also different generations of preamps intended for different applications. The Para works really well and is phantom power-able, which is great. The EQ works well and it has plenty of gain and output available. However, it doesn’t have the headroom (in my opinion) for active pickups and works best with passive USTs and mags. It was originally designed for the LB6 and the two definitely go very well together.

The Venue is more powerful, has the input headroom for active pickups, a more detailed EQ with re-centered frequencies, and a boost. It probably sounds more “neutral” than the Para which often sounds “warm.” Both are great but if I was using, say, a Baggs Anthem or M80, I’d use the Venue. If I had a passive LB6 or M1, I’d go Para.

All good. I'm using the K&K pick ups.