The EE preamp is indeed good and highly recomended.Fun to tube roll too.
With that said, I bought an Accuphase C-200 that had been recaped, and it is better than the untouched C-200 I also own.Way more lively.
So, they are both wonderful,for 400 to 600 bucks you can save a lot of time and hassle by getting one of these great amps.
I like to cut through the B.S and find the good stuff,so you can't go wrong with these two.
They will get you off the merry go round for sure!
Happy listening.
Regards,Mcgarick