Appreciate your response but I have narrowed to 2 specific line stages. My rationale is that my dealer has always gone over and above to work with me. If there is an issue with a component he will be there to help as well as to personally ship it back to the manufacturer for repair. Unwilling to purchase from anybody but my current local dealer. You might be right, what you recommend may sound better. But my dealer takes into account the synergy between my components, and iin short he has earned my loyalty.
Narrowing line stage search Conrad Johnson ET-6 SE VS. Backart Labs 1.4 Rhuma Extreme
Narrowing down my tube preamp search as follows:
1. Conrad Johnson-ET-6 SE: This line stage has no balance control and is not balanced. The retail price is $5900.00.
2. Backart Labs 1.4 Rhumba Extreme: Has a balance control and is fully balanced. The retail price is $8500.00
My preferences: Seeking a fully balanced system. My seating works best when I can control the balance as I do not sit in the "sweet spot". I am looking for an accurate but tube like sound that is lush romantic, especially in the midrange. Has anybody had the opportunity to compare these two line stages? Any advice with regard to which line stage might be preferable. Thank you. My entire system is listed in my prior thread entitled seeking a tubed preamplifier. My dealer who is truly excellent recommends these 2 line stages. Seeking some guidance as to the pros and cons of each.