Newbie in need of preamp guidance

I'm a newbie when it comes to DIY but I've recently finished two kit builds - and now I'm thinking about building a low cost multi channel preamp.

My IDEAL build would be a six channel clean gain preamp (in a 1U case) with balanced XLR in, HiZ in (DI), balanced line 1/4" out, separate on/off +48v switches and LEDs for all channels with internal power supply.

Since I'm not ready to draw my own boards just yet I'd like to know if anyone here could give me some thoughts on how to mix and match kits (or at least ready-made PCBs).

I know JLM makes stuff I probably could go with, but I'm hoping to make something cheaper.
Been looking at the ThatMic kit (http://electronics.dantimax.dk/Kits/Preamps_-_poweramps/11380733512.html).
I guess that would be a good start, right?
I can't find an easy solution for a DI input to easily add to the ThatMic, though. Is there any way for me to implement the HiZ Plug-Ins for example?

I know I could use external DI boxes, but I'd love it if I didn't have to.

Any ideas would be highly appreciated.

I don't see how you could use 6 of the ThatMic kit boards in a one rack case.
They would have to be mounted vertically in maybe a 3 space rack.

You could fit four preamps into a 1u rack with these:
http://expataudio.myshopify.com/products/eden-microphone-preamplifier-4-pack

Green Preamp is a good choice to beggin with.

Winetree said:

I don't see how you could use 6 of the ThatMic kit boards in a one rack case.
They would have to be mounted vertically in maybe a 3 space rack.

Click to expand...

Oh. I was under the impression I could wire the pots and XLRs.

gato said:

You could fit four preamps into a 1u rack with these:
http://expataudio.myshopify.com/products/eden-microphone-preamplifier-4-pack

Click to expand...

sam system-d said:

Green Preamp is a good choice to beggin with.

Click to expand...

No DI inputs in none of these standard layouts, right?
I guess I'll have to learn how to make my designs soon.
Thanks, though.