Einstein The Tube pre vs Nagra PL-L or VTL7.5 II

I recently visited a customer to let him audition the Einstein The Tube in his system. He had the MBL 6010D on loan to compare side by side. The Einstein, even with the stock tubes and power cord, was the clear winner: much more emotionally involving, faster and airier at the top end yet not at all bright, richer tone and better decay, excellent weight and dynamics.

I believe that Einstein (the man) would prefer Einstein The Solid State.

essential audio - how does the resolution of the einstein compare with the other preamps you've tried, like the blowtorch? is the einstein the best pre you've heard? thanks

factor in longevity..the vtl