High End SS Preamplifier Ayre, EMM Labs, ML, or Pass

I will differ. I think the ML 523 is outstanding in all respects. Blasphemy but I preferred it strongly to the latest 40k Dartzeel and it was playing in same league as the Luxman c900u in my system. I seriously doubt that Ayre is in another league. Then there's always the ML 52 if you want more of everything. However all you'll get here are fans of they're own equipment. Have to hear it with your own gear which can be difficult. I've had the good fortune to have owned all of the above except for the 52 and kept the Luxman but 523 was really really good. 

not so sure about the dag comment. i used the 523 with a dag s250 and never thought there might be an inequity. ended up w a luxman duo and haven’t looked back but i think the ml is built to an extraordinary level. i had my doubts when i purchased it(523) but they quickly evaporated.
from a purely aesthetic standpoint the ml and luxman are equal to the dag in build quality. just put your hands on them. one quick note. i also have an ARC ref amp and the sheet metal case should be embarrassing to ARC not to mention the cost of the guts. However it sounds good. 
Too long winded. my apologies.