Although I think the DCC2 is an excellent preamp, I do not get the air, staging or dynamics of my tube preamp (Audionote M-10.) I used the DCC2 as a preamp for about six months while I was waiting for an upgrade to my preamp and I enjoyed it very much. But IMS it does not compare to the M-10. BTW I like the Elrod power cords with my sources.