I have a bit of insight in having fairly extensive experience in my own system with both the Lamm LP2 and the Manley Steelhead. I ran the Lamm LP2 as my phono stage for a couple of years (2003-4) and ultimately replaced it with the Manley Steelhead, which I have been using as my phono stage for the past two years. My move to the Steelhead was for the purpose of gaining more flexibility with repect to gain and loading.
From a performance perspective, I found the two components to be very close. To my ears and in my system, however, the Manley was the winner. The bass is tighter and more extended, and the treble is better extended, more refined and airier, resolving that touch of darkness that is a signature trait of the Lamm electronics.
So, in my book, the Manley Steelhead ranks just a touch above the Lamm LP2.
From a performance perspective, I found the two components to be very close. To my ears and in my system, however, the Manley was the winner. The bass is tighter and more extended, and the treble is better extended, more refined and airier, resolving that touch of darkness that is a signature trait of the Lamm electronics.
So, in my book, the Manley Steelhead ranks just a touch above the Lamm LP2.