I dunno anything about Mr Fremer's findings but I've recently been playing with the new Dynavector P75. It's seriously good at under $600 retail and is finding itself comfortable in the company of some old favorites in the $1000-1500 range in direct head-to-head comparison auditions.Not too impressive to look at but definately worth a listen.
http://www.dynavector.co.jp/english/frame_cart/e_p75.html
http://www.dynavector.co.jp/english/frame_cart/e_p75.html