Question about Pre-Amps

So...
I've been looking into how to up the recording quality of my samples. For years I've been using a beat up Numark DM1001x mixer. Its pretty much on the outs as of now. So I'm researching what would be the best purchase for my MPC.

Pre-amps can be pricey. A lot of people on here say that UA pre-amps are top of the line. The Solo/610 looks like the best option simply because I don't imagine needing a dual channel preamp (all I got is my MPC and two SL1200s).

I've also been looking into new mixers. I've liked the look of the Native Instruments Z2 for awhile. I'm desperately in need of a new mixer.

So here's my question(s):
If I'm looking into audio quality, which is superior, the UA 610 or a Z2 mixer?
Also, is the Z2 all hype? I'm sure there has to be mixers out there that are just as good for far cheaper.

I understand that UA is solely amplifying, however is it that MUCH better than the preamps found in a Z2 mixer? Let me know peoples!

If these are to connect your turntable outputs into your MPC inputs, then the UA Solo/610 is not going to do what you want.

The UA Solo/610 is a microphone and DI preamp, the microphone input, or DI input, are amplified and output as a balanced pro line level signal.

To feed your turntables into your MPC, you need a phono preamp, which takes a turntable phono output, amplifies it, applies a RIAA de-emphasis curve to make it sound right, and usually outputs it as an unbalanced consumer line level signal.

They are two different types of preamps.

You would normally put a phono preamp inbetween the turntable phono outputs and the MPC inputs.

You would normally put a mic/DI preamp inbetween the MPC output and computer audio interface inputs.

Also, disregarding the difference in phono preamp vs mic/DI preamp, the UA Solo/610 is a mono (single channel) preamp, but your turntable output is stereo (2 channels).

Ahhh I see. Well I mean a mixer has phono inputs right? If thats the case should I just buy a Z2? Or if not any suggestions for a phono preamp? I've been scouring ebay but i just don't know what's gonna give me the best quality signal.

Yes, a DJ mixer has phono inputs.

Your options are probably another DJ mixer, or a phono preamp.

I am not up on phono preamps, what is good, what is worth buying to get better quality than inbuilt DJ mixer preamps, etc., I'll leave that to someone else to recommend.

I think this might go far beyond your budget, but it's still worth checking http://www.funktion-one.com/products/ff4000-dj-mixer/
Here's a price reference http://www.ribasound.com/formula/sound/ff/4000/en

yeah a little beyond what i can afford. its a beautiful mixer though, not sure if i'd really need anything that high end. what do you guys use to record?

that tascam looks feasible. I like the fact that its a usb interface as well. and i found one for as cheap as $175. thanks for the suggestion!