To socket or not to socket?

[Revren Jesse]

Does anybody know if socketing the Burr Browns would change the sound of the C84 or increase noise? I'm sure they sound fine, but I'd like to be able to easily replace them for curiosity's sake.

[tpryan]

Socketing won't increase noise and it certainly won't change the sound, but if you use cheap sockets you may create a maintenance problem for yourself in years to come. Use a high-quality machine pin socket.

[Ken Schumacher]

Can anyone recommend a specific "high quality socket" by manufacturer and model number (or Mouser or Digitek order number) for the 8 pin ICs used in a C84 mic preamp? I would like to have the option of testing different types of ICs in the future, but know nothing about quality sockets.

Thanks!

Ken Schumacher
Live Vibes Recording
Grass Valley, California