Audio Research SP17 tube pre w/ phono superb!!

"Externally, the SP17 looks identical to the sp16, but internally much is improved. Instead of 6 12ax7 tubes, the SP17 features low-noise JFET inputs in both the line and phono stages, and a single 6H30p in each section. The same high-voltage regulator found in the LS17 and LS26 is now used in the SP17, so is the 103-step volume control--the sp16 had been 70. Adjustments are finer now, esp useful at low volumes. The gain in the phono stage has increased from 43 to 47 dB, but is 9dB quieter than the sp16. What do all these changes translate to musically? Greater articulation, better image focus and apparent speed resulting from lower distortion and a lack of smearing. Bass definition and control are improved and dynamics simply pop". Please refer to online reviews and specs at arcdb.ws
I have owned this fine preamp since 2009, 2 years after its introduction. I am the 2nd owner and have cared for it well. It is absolutely superb, dead quiet, robust clean sound, and the phono stage is simply excellent. It is for mm with 47 dB gain (the pre section is 11 dB gain) so I used a SUT with my lo-mc cartridges. I consider this pre the best value in the ARC pre line up, as the next SP20 retailed for $9k!! And prices for new AR products have gone through the roof. I am selling b/c I am now using integrated amps with a stand alone phono stage, so I just haven't been using the SP17 much for 2 years. I estimate 800 hours on the tubes, which are rated to last 10,000. (So they say!)
The face is nearly perfect, but if you look closely, there are a few tiny pinpoint sized marks. No big scratches anywhere. I rated it an 8 for this and age. Thanks for looking
Comes with all original packing, remote, manual and power cord. Shipping $40 to lower 48.