B.R., thanks for sharing all the great insight! I will certainly check out your recommendations. Today, I ordered the second Zamp and should have it in about a week or so.

My budget for an all tube pre-amp or tube/SS hybrid pre-amp is $2.5K. Of course I'd rather not spend more than necessary. I have read reviews on Mystere CA-21, Prima Luna Dialogue 3, and Dodd battery operated pre-amp. However, I have yet to audition any of these products. Anyone ever had the opportunity to listen to the Mystere, Prima Luna, or Dodd products?