Preamps: Presonus Firepod/box vs. Edirol UA-1000 vs. ?

Archived from groups: rec.audio.pro (More info?)

I am looking for a laptop recording solution with at least four (matched) mic
preamps. I plan to do live recording (one or two pairs of different mics) as
well as (eventually) four track recording for a homemade ambisonic mic (four
identical mics).

Does anyone have opinions on the Presonus Firepod/firebox or the Edirol
UA1000? Neither company says what chips are inside. Presonus claims "dual
servo preamps" whatever that means. Edirol does not have any specs on the
preamps.

Would these be a step up from something like the Tascam US-122, Edirol UA5,
etc? Or do I need to move up to something like an RME Fireface or the like
for an improvement?

Thanks,
Richard

PS: I called Presonus and they said these amps are new, and do not have
sockets like the MP20.