The best, in a cost is no object system, would have to match my taste, my other components and my operating requirements (remote control, balance control, etc.). That can be done best by finding a builder who makes stuff that sounds good to you and having that builder then make a custom linestage/preamp that specifically fits your requirements. I had the builder of my linestage put in remote control of volume and a balance control. I also opted for transformer outputs that match the transformer inputs of my amp (other buyers from this builder have opted for capacitor-coupled outputs or having both types of outputs). I have also seen and heard other interesting linestages from other custom builders includes some with highly unusual features, such as a two-way crossover.
