Conrad Johnson GAT - What else is there?

Hi folks -

I wanted to get some input on a preamp question. I’ve been in a search for the perfect preamp - I’m pairing the unit with AudioNet AMP monoblocks and powering a pair of Wilson Sophia 3’s. Previously, I had tried a fully upgraded Don Sachs DS2, Wells Audio Commander Level 2, and am now on the Conrad Johnson GAT v1.

Landing on the GAT seems like the perfect move. I bought the right piece of equipment, for an amazing price, from a great seller (huge shoutout to @audiotroy, Dave of Audio Intellect). Dave listened to the preamp woes I went through, found the right piece of gear for me, and made sure the GAT came to me after a paid-for pitstop at CJ for a full inspection - including brand new tubes. Highly recommended dealer.

The preamp does sound wonderful - I love the slight refinement of the signal to be just a bit more seductive while being natural, input and output options, balance control, EPL + HT sections and generally - it just gets out of the way! The one thing I’m considering is: it doesn’t have an auto power off, nor power button on the remote.

These aren’t deal breakers and I don’t think I’d really end up trading this away. The GAT is by far the best preamp I’ve owned… but since I can’t seem to stick with one piece of gear… if I was going to move on - any recommendations in the sub $10k range?