Have my C-27 for several months, replacing IO-Sig standalone or IO plus Accuphase C-17 head amp. Nothing lost from the IO other than the enormous soundstage width the IO throws. However, the c-27 is a) much quieter and microdynamic b) more focused c) more precise. I don't feel I lost anything organic or emotion by moving to SS, the C-27 just gives you what the cartridge plays, nothing more, nothing less. Differences in my carts are much more discernable with the C-27. In addition you get 3 inputs, each of which can be loaded independantly; I feel I get the best out of each cart and arm combo now. Its a keeper.