@gryphongryph
Are you able to Post Links to the Tests? I've searched but unable to find.
FWIW, 3 friends/acquaintances A/B'd SA-T7 & SA-T8 (both Stock), all 3 including owner of SA-T7, preferred the SA-T8.
I then A/B'd, SA-T8 was a Clear Winner. However I had upgraded Tubes in SA-T8, which may not have been a fair comparison.
The SA-T7 is a good Pre, and a great Value, but the SA-T8 is outstanding.
The main difference and could be why some may prefer SA-T7, is the SA-T7 is more a "Studio" Sounding Pre (some use the term "Detailed"). The SA-T8 is more "Live" Music Pre. a sound I much prefer.