I eneded up purchasing the XPA-2. For me the XPA-2 is an amazing value for the price. However, I do agree with a lot of what Robbob posted. I am currently using an NAD c350 integrated as a pre amp. I have not noticed any dull or lifelessness in the midrange. What I have noticed is the sheer transparency in the recordings that I did not hear with the previous amp which shall remain nameless. I listened to "Joe Henderson's Greatest Hits" on Bluenote, "The Popular Duke Ellington", "Duke Ellington:Piano Reflections", "Jim Hall & Pat Metheny", "Sam Cooke at the Copa" and finally, "Billie Holiday: The Decca Years". Also, I do need to mention some tracks by Allison Krauss and Union Station, such "Down By The River to Pray", and "Baby,Now That I have Found You". I have listened and re-listened to these recordings over and over for a minimum of 8 hours a day since buying the XPA-2. If there are any problems in the midrange I didn't notice.(Note: My cable situation is precarious at best.) In fact I am astounded by all that I had not heard in these recordings before!!!!! The XPA-2 is the real deal. It delivers quality in spades and some.