Atma-shere preamp comments

I have both the Hovland and an MP-1 MK1 I bought used (yes they are hard to find used). I am driving MA-1 amps. On CD, MP-1 wins due to better sound stage layering, tonal character rightness, dynamic nuance (ie low level dynamic detailing). Instruments spatially well delineated. Phono not yet compared since I am waiting for new cable termination. However, Hovland phono stage sounds better if I use MP-1 line stage too. My 2 cents. Mp-x preamps grossly underrated, it seems. j

Tube rush can be a serious problem to tame if you will use the phono with a low output MC (0.25mV). Some have tamed this somewhat with NOS Mullard 12AT7. The hovland has no such problem but has no phase switch.