Now that I'm getting the Nola Brio Trio speakers, my brain is fast forwarding to something else. As I'm toying with the idea of computer audio next and would need a preamp at some point, I searched re the EC Melos and found some interesting info. It's very smooth sounding, but maybe a teeny bit noisy. If the ldr's stop working, there aren't any replacements. But a Tortuga board can be substituted. It's very stylish, but the upgrade costs must be pretty pricey. If you wish Doug, pls post the cost of the deluxe upgrade. If that's too private, I understand.
I do have my Audience pseudo passive preamp of years ago and may fire it up one of these days
Nick