I have a jj 243 purchased from Audiogon for $675 so I cannot complain,it sounds fantastic with my turntable it is adjustable for gain and I have not had any heating problems but it must be well ventilated as the one I have is.I will not be looking for a pre for a long time.There may be pre amps just as good or better for the price but it sounds fantastic to me smooth with good bass not tubby with a nice detailed midrange but not to forward with good balance in relation to the bass and treble.Turn it off when not in use and things should be ok takes about 45 minutes to warm up.