First off, I want to thank ALL for their input regarding my search for a new preamplifier, which gave me a great deal to think about and to investigate, and it is time to let folks know what I have chosen. First off, because of medical issues facing both my wife and me, I was unable to get out to audition other preamplifiers. You might argue that I "took the easy way out," but I took possession today of a Rogue Audio RP-9 v2 preamplifier. My dealer offered me a very nice trade value on my RP-7, and I corresponded by email extensively with the folks at Rogue Audio, who answered a number of questions. I looked really hard at the Audio Research LS28se and a few of the more "exotic" offerings, but I wanted to keep the cost close to the price of the new RP-9 v2 less my trade, and I have been VERY pleased with the RP-7 (v1), so I guess I am happy with "the Rogue sound," if there is a such a thing--actually, don't think there really such a thing. Their products, in my opinion, just reproduce what is in the source music.
I have been listening to the new preamp in my system for about eight hours now, and I have to say it is a significant upgrade, as good as the RP-7 was. So far--Bill at Rogue has told me it will take about 150 hours for it to fully burn in, I have noticed better bass control and depth, finer definition and tonal qualities of instruments, and somewhat improved imaging and sound stage, which was already quite good with the RP-7. Additionally, it seems that the background noise level is reduced beyond that of even the RP-7, which I felt to be quite good.
So, my overall reaction is that the move from the Rogue RP-7 v1 to the RP-9 v2 is a SUBSTANTIAL upgrade. I am looking forward to further improvements as the unit burns in.
Once again, thanks to all for their comments and suggestions. Were I a younger man I might have been more adventurous and tried one of the more exotic brands, but already I am extremely happy with my Rogue Audio RP-9 v2 as it is doing a superb job of reproducing the music ... and the music is what this "hobby" is really all about.