ARC SP 10....how good is it really????

I've owned the Cat Ultimate, Jadis DPMC, SP11, SP10 and now the Herron line stage and phone stage. I've listed these in the order of my preference. The main weakness of the SP10 is that to use the line stage, you have to take it out of by-pass mode which engages all of the front panel clap trap. The phono stage is still very competive with todays offerings while through the line stage, it lacks transparency and is somewhat grainy. The 10 is also demanding of tubes in four locations. It prefers noise free NOS in these locations. I debated (with myself) for a long time as to send the 10 to GNS or find a modern alternative. If it's any consequence, I do regret having to sell the 10 to help pay for the Herrons. That said, the Herron's are lovely and will enjoy them for years to come.