I auditioned the RM-200 with several preamps. The systems I preferred paired the RM-200 with a tubed preamp. I listened with the Rogue 99, Hovland HP100, Audible Illusions 3A, CAT SL1 Signature, and the Wright Sound Company WPL20. Of these I preferred the WPL20 because of a kind of purity of presentation that more directly connected me with the music. This combination was never harsh, and did not overly emphasize any component of the musical spectrum over another. Dynamic contrasts seemed ideal. It's also an incredible bargain.