VAC PHI 2.0 or CTC Blowtorch or...

MBL 101E speakers
H2O M250 signature monoblocks (trial period)
EMM Labs DCC2
EMM Labs-modified SACD 1000
Cardas Golden Reference cabling

I think the preamp section of the DCC2 is very good but I'm just wondering what another preamp could do for me. I did a quick comparison with the CAT ('Ultimate' preamp, I think?) and both the owner and I agreed that the DCC2 held its own quite well.

If I keep the M250s, here are my preamp requirements:

1. that it have a very low output impedance to match the low, 8k ohm, input impedance of the M250s.

1a. it should also have a decent power supply to deliver current, drive the M250s, and maximize the dynamics of my system.

2. that it include a phonostage (just in case...)

3. that it have dual XLR outputs in the likely event that I want to use four amps to drive my speakers.

I believe that the VAC Phi 2.0 and the Blowtorch meet all my requirements.
The thing is, I've never heard either one. I do have a local VAC dealer, however.

P.S. The MBL 6010D is another option but I have heard it in an all MBL system and I'm really hoping to find and preamp that gives more density and holographic weight (perhaps a little warmth as well) to vocals and upper midrange images.

Thanks.

Brian,
Can you tell me where in Canada the Blowtorch is going; I'd love to finally hear it? I should note that in order for me to justify the cost of a new preamp, the difference between it and the DCC2 would have to be *significant*.

The reason I'm looking into the H2Os is because I can't afford the big MBL monoblocks or the CAT JL3 monos.

Thanks.

Yes, I've looked at the threads and seen that many others report comparing the DCC2 to top-notch preamps and finding the differences to be subtle.

Sprinbok10, however, clearly prefers his Atma-Sphere MP-1 mkII. I wonder, however, if this says more about the synergy between it and his Atma-Sphere amps?

Frankg,
I think your suggestion is excellent. I had no idea that there was a "2nd gen" CDSD. If one were looking to buy a used one, how would one differentiate a second generation unit from an original CDSD?
Thanks

Jafox: Thank you (and everyone) for your suggestions.
I'm hesitant about the JL3s for four, subjective, reasons.
1. They are almost as expensive as a pair of MBL 9008s. I've heard the 9008s drive the 101s and, simply put, they are a great match.
2. I can try the H2O without much risk (I can only lose a few hundred dollars for shipping, etc.) but if I buy used or new JL3s and don't really like them; I'm stuck with them. I don't like to purchase gear that I haven't heard in my system.
3. I've heard the JL3s on U-1s and found the bass control to be somewhat lacking (a Rowland 302 in the same system really tightened things up).
4. One reviewer on AA owned a 101E / JL3 system and stated that he could only confortably attain 95dB in his room. This could have been a room issue but it could also have been an amp/speaker issue. He didn't keep this system.

Thanks Frankg.