Linear Tube Audio MZ2 Preamp - has anyone compared it to.......

I auditioned the LTA MZ2 preamp briefly, and was impressed.  And it has had favorable reviews, and it is mentioned very positively in many a’gon threads. 

I am curious if anyone has actually a-b compared it to other tube preamps.  I would like to hear from owners on what they picked it over (assuming a critical comparison was conducted) or what they replaced. I would especially like to hear from anyone who liked it, but ended up buying something else. I am digital only, and don’t need a phono stage.

Here is where I am coming from: a preamp is my next component to upgrade, and was looking at things in the 3000-6000 range (new or used) and am comfortable spending that much money.   Is the LTA talked about because it blows away the other preamps in the 2k and under category? But how about in comparison to 5k preamps -  Does it loose its shine against more expensive preamps from guys like Conrad johnson, audio research, cary, vtl, etc.? ( I have been a CJ fan from way back, and was thinking this might be the time to seriously audition an ET3SE or ET5... but then I heard the LTA)

thanks for your thoughts