I use my stealth as a DAC connected to my pre. I would never want to use the attenuation feature of the stealth, I’m to fussy with proper sound level control. I tried a Linn Kontrol which is SS and was underwhelmed by the neutrality of the sq. I am using an audio research LS-16 that was modded by the great northern sound company. Very good combination, but I have settled on a tube buffer to add more richness. My Aesthetix Calisto is in for repairs, but I will return to describe my impression of the stealth with my reference pre when the Callisto returns.