Ear Yoshino Ltd. 868L Superb Tube Linestage

Please note: this is the linestage version, phono inputs are inactive

All the reviewers over the last 10 years have been knocked out by the transparency and tonal accuracy of this preamp.  Still a current model in the EAR lineup, it sets a standard unmatched in my experience  for articulation of the soundstage--this thing just knows where to put the notes, with precision.  Very fast, but with a musical tonality that just sounds right.  Google the reviews.

But (and it's an important BUT, at least to me) reviewers all seem to agree that it has a crummy remote control.  I was hoping they just meant ugly, which it is.  What I found, to my dismay, is that it's not capable of anything much finer than a 3 db level change.  That's the deal breaker for me, as I need fine level changes due to tinnitus and ear pain. 

So if you're in the market for a truly world-class tubed pre and you don't care about fine level changes when using the remote (the volume knob is silky and precise when used manually, by the way), this EAR is well worth your time and dollar.  I bought it used in 2015 from Goodwin's High End, who are an authorized EAR dealer.  Whether a demo or customer trade-in I don't know.  The piece is in great shape, but there is some very tiny pitting on the mirror finish, unnoticeable unless you're inches away in bright sunlight. I've tried, but I can't photograph them.  Also please see there is an imperfection on the top finish that looks to be a factory blemish in the paint--very hard to see indoors.  I'm calling it 8/10 because it's certainly at least an 8 to my eyes.  Agon guidelines suggest a 7, but I'll take my chances that any buyer will agree with me that it's an 8 at least.  I'll pick up Paypal, and you pay a flat $50 shipping to CONUS.

Very little room in the price, so please don't try to bottom feed. Please feel free to ask any questions using the private message.
Thanks for looking, Dan