E.A.R 834p. VS Graham Slee Reflex

I haven't heard the Graham, but I did try out the EAR a few years ago, and it was pretty ho hum to me. Not bad, but nothing special.

Shakey

Shakey- Do you suspect the 834 w/ your Benz was just too warmish paired together. They are both supposed to have that signature. I have owned a Ruby, and briefly an EAR 912. and that was my feeling. Never heard them together.
Was the 834P quiet w/ your Benz SL

Just got mine. Can't say it's ho hum on this side,bit of an opposite experience for me. Sounds great: agree with all that has been posted on this one. Can't call it analytical, but did not want that sound.

Good luck

That could be the case. I compared it to the onboard phono stage of a JJ Electronics full featured preamp and preferred the JJ. The EAR reminded me of the MM section of the Cary SLP -98. Just not very resolving or dynamic.

Shakey

Thanks-I am thinking tubes to replace a Heed Quasar. The Heed
won't be easy to trump without spending a fair amount more. It's really good, and has a sound I can see a tube guy liking.
That's coming from a tube guy. ProAc28- Not sure what the Slee sells for, but the Quasar may be worth consideration. Mine will stay until I hear something something better south of 3K. The 834P delux is $2595 BTW.