Pani, any reason you want to limit your preamp choices to Berning? What are your source components?
I suggest you read about Vinnie Rossi LIO configurable preamp and its user experience in Audio Circle. I don't have experience using LIO but I am using similar volume attenuator (John Chapman & Dave Slagle autoformer) in passive mode when DIY enthusiasts can purchase it directly from Bent Audio. It replaced AR REF 5 SE tube preamp in my system.
The LIO has an option for autoformer volume control with tube stage - that's the one I recommend. It also has phono stage option. It is also upgradable. Please check it out.
I suggest you read about Vinnie Rossi LIO configurable preamp and its user experience in Audio Circle. I don't have experience using LIO but I am using similar volume attenuator (John Chapman & Dave Slagle autoformer) in passive mode when DIY enthusiasts can purchase it directly from Bent Audio. It replaced AR REF 5 SE tube preamp in my system.
The LIO has an option for autoformer volume control with tube stage - that's the one I recommend. It also has phono stage option. It is also upgradable. Please check it out.