4Yanx- I had the Bent unit you are describing in my system and another buddy's (Israel Blume- Owner/Designer Coincident Speaker Technology) for testing- although fairly smooth in presentation and not the least bit aggressive, we found it did soften the frequency extremes too much for our liking, and therefore didn't make the grade. That being said, John at Bent Audio is a super nice guy to deal with.
Israel and I both use Audion preamps from the UK, which we have found to be the best, however as far as transparency/neutrality go, I also found the Wyetech Opal quite outstanding, but this may be out of your intended budget. Vox- for YOUR situation, I would not hesitate to get the Placette RVC w remote. There is one right now on audiogon @ $650. If I had a single source only, this would be an easy decision...
Israel and I both use Audion preamps from the UK, which we have found to be the best, however as far as transparency/neutrality go, I also found the Wyetech Opal quite outstanding, but this may be out of your intended budget. Vox- for YOUR situation, I would not hesitate to get the Placette RVC w remote. There is one right now on audiogon @ $650. If I had a single source only, this would be an easy decision...