I'm sorry that I said "highend stereo amp". I never had highend stereo preamps but AV processors like Lexicon MC12, Marantz 8802.
I just had a chance to compare CB IV, Emotiva RMC 1, Marantz 8805 all together.
At that time CB IV sounded best and RMC1 , 8805 in order. I dont know what makes CB...