My Baby Ref arrived yesterday 8/1/2012 and right out of the flight case it sounded wonderful. I know that Harry did some burn-in for me at the factory for which I am grateful. I have put about 20 hours on the b-ref at this point. Early comparisons to the ref reveal the b-ref to sound slightly sweeter but not quite as detailed/mature. The ref is very detailed while still being a full bodied and beautiful sounding pre-amp. I have no doubt that as the b-ref burns in it will settle down and develop all the detail that the ref displays. Please don't misunderstand, the b-ref is very very very detailed and sounds absolutely stunning, but the ref probably has over a 1000 hours on it at this point therefore it is very settled.
I am profoundly happy with my purchase of the b-ref because as you all know it is not an inexpensive piece of gear. If you have been dreaming of the refs sound but can't or don't want to swing for the extra coin.., I can honestly say you will NOT be missing out on anything sound-wise should you opt for the b-ref.
I will be back with more information after the b-ref has about 3- 500 hours on its coils :)
