Neutral preamplifier recommendation $1K new

 HPA-4 I believe is their upgraded version of the LA-4 with a headphone amp that is highly regarded.

The HPA4 and the LA4 sound the same on 2-channel. I have the HPA4 and owned the LA4.

@mybuddy I spent a bit of time at the SBAF web site (a very interesting audio site) looking into the Schitt gear. Seems the Schitt Mjolnir v3 preamp (no remote) that I also own is a huge hit over there. It is my 3rd best preamp, but folks seem to love it.

@yyzsantabarbara  The Mjolnir is primarily a headphone amp. It does not have the 2 XLR inputs & remote that I require. My listening is via speakers, NO headphones.

@mybuddy Yes, it is sold as a headphone amp but for my needs the headphone amp is not good. I use it as a 2-channel preamp, and it is very good that way. 

My Benchmark HAP4 preamp is also sold as a headphone amp, and it is also no good for my headphone needs but great as a 2-channel.

My Holo Audio Serene preamp also has a headphone amp (XLR1) and it is also no good for my headphone needs. 

I am 3 for 3 with my preamps and headphones.

Looking for a unit that measures well & has no/little sound of its own. 
 

No such thing. Forget it. 
Instead I would drop the XLR requirement and look for the best sounding preamp for $1000. 

@audphile1  Do you have a recommendation?