Cary is trying to make the SLP 03 a price leader at it's new lower price point. At $2k this is fantastic deal for both the SLP 03's feature set and superb build quality.
The issue is that the SLP 03 is not very lush it is very clean.
I have one which I do like and I think for its current price is a superb value, I have heard that when tube rolled it really comes alive, I am still waiting to hear myself which tubes to change to which will add a bit more warmth and body to the preamps presentation.
Dealer disclosure