Price Paid:  $5000.00 from Melos Audio

Summary:
I have the Melos 333 Gold (the older name for the Music Director). This is a really fine pre-amp. The phono stage has plenty of gain and it is very quiet. After having the complete upgrade from Melos Audio Restorations, I have no need to find another preamp. The updates increased the sense of depth, especially in the phono stage without altering it's already fine tonal balance. I listen to classical orchestra music almost exclusively, and the Melos just allows the music to sing. Since an original can be had very inexpensively on the used market, I would recommend getting one and having it updated. It is a taste of the very high-end without breaking the bank.

Strengths:
Outstanding soundstage, quiet phono stage, phase switch (and this is VERY useful.

Weaknesses:
So-so build quality in original form, such as noisy switches. All have been solved after the update

Similar Products Used:
Audio Research SP 11, Melos GK-1, Beard.