Like I said before, I'm no expert & don't get all the nuances of describing sound.
Prior to completing the masterpiece, my preferred system was Oppo 105 xlr directly to Decware ZMA into Maggie 3.6.
Other pre's (maybe because the only connection options became limited to RCA's) sounded worse not better (I apologize for my inability to describe how)-including GG.
I will add that I have always preferred dual vol controls- it alows me to dial in the image.
When I told Mr. Rosenblit of my preference he offered extra pot & knob (@ additional cost) & suggested I put second pot in hole already labled headphone & move headphone or delete it.
The Masterpiece is now permanently in the chain-it sounds better.
On a similar note (& I cringe when I think about all the flamers on "A/ B blind testing"- it's not really, anyway- I recognize the inherent flaws)-I sometimes record CD's on Tascam CC222SLMK2- has the option of digital or analog in. By pushing a single button you can scroll through inputs. I did it, had my kids close their eyes, push the input, ask "which sounds better & why?" Then looked to see which input (I did have to make the gain the same, I recognize not all variables were controlled- different cables, inputs, etc.) , but bottom line we all consistently preffered Masterpiece analog input to digital coax when the opposite was true for GG & other preamps.
I'm sorry if I didn't exactly answer your question, but I gave it my best shot in terms of my choices & why- I realize you're may be different!
Good luck, Jay
