I've owned the Levinson 380, the CJ Premier 14 and the BAT VK-40SE, all somewhat similiar to what you've mentioned here (as well as 10 other preamps). The CJ gear was sweet but seemed a bit dull in dynamics unless you cranked up the sound. The BAT had the warmest presentation of any solid state preamp I've owned. The Levinson 380 was pretty even and neutral, not as warm as an Aleph P nor as raw and supercharged as a CAT or as quietly silky as a Rowland Synergy...
I've heard great things about the Hovland and the VK50SE but ended up with (a different) Levinson with which I am very satisfied. It'd be great to own any of these preamps.
I've heard great things about the Hovland and the VK50SE but ended up with (a different) Levinson with which I am very satisfied. It'd be great to own any of these preamps.