Upgrade from Rogue RP-7

What sound characteristics are most important to you and what improvements are you looking for?

Clarity, timbre should be dynamic but doesn't have to lead the group as long as it does not sound constrained. good separation of instruments. I dont believe my RP7 is as clear as it could be. In its price range it is good but i am willing to spend more to get more.

You could add the Aesthetix Pallene, though not sure if its sold in Signature (yet).  Backert Labs also shows up alot in the RP7 area. 

I recommend researching the Holo Serene KTE.  Look up on-line reviews and YouTube reviews.  I bought one and compared it to my McIntosh C2600 and a Linear Tube Audio Microzotl Reference preamp.  I sold my C2600 after owning it for 5 years and I returned the LTA preamp under the 14 day trial.  Herb Reichert of Stereophile uses it for his reference preamp.  It's less expensive than the preamps that I compared it to and less expensive than all the preamps on your list.  

I liked the Serene KTE so much that I have a second one on order.  That one will replace my Audio by Van Alstine FET Valve CF.  The Serene is about as transparent as I've ever experienced in a preamp.  It produces a deep soundstage and great separation.  Tonality and timbre are very natural.  It reproduces piano and the human voice in a lifelike manner.  Don't let the $3k price tag fool you, it competes with preamps 2-4 times its price.  

@smatsui I was going to recommend the LTA MicroZOTL preamp.  In what areas did you find the Holo superior to it?  I’d still recommend the OP give the LTA a try with the trial period. 

I found the Holo Serene KTE to be more transparent than the LTA Microzotl reference preamp.  Bass seemed to faster and better controlled.  Imagining was more clearly defined.   I also give the Serene the edge in tonality and timbre.  I think the Serene provides more meat on the bones than the LTA.

@smatsui Wow.  That’s saying a lot.  Being more transparent along with having more meat on the bones than the LTA is quite an accomplishment.  Thanks for your thoughts!