Go with the L-1. If you research "audioreview.com" for Melos products you'll see comments which will lead one to believe that Melos may have had the worst customer service in the entire univerise. I mean we're talking real horror stories here. Also, there is some question as to whether Melos still exists. They disappeared from their New Jersey base and many months later resurfaced in, I think, California. Perhaps to get away as far as possible? Still, to the best of my knowledge, no new products from them yet.
Now, the Audible Illusions L-1 can only be described, in my opinion, as heavenly. If you don't need a phono stage,get it. Separate power supply, world class quality headphone amp, line stage based on the famed Modulus 3A, excellent build quality, and available on the used market for about $750-$800.
Now, the Audible Illusions L-1 can only be described, in my opinion, as heavenly. If you don't need a phono stage,get it. Separate power supply, world class quality headphone amp, line stage based on the famed Modulus 3A, excellent build quality, and available on the used market for about $750-$800.