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If this is true there will be a Gilmore V2-SE for sale.

I gave the v2 on more listen today before I ship it off for another v2 se. The v2 is a great preamp. It has the same strenghts as the v2 se but just not the v2 se's transparency. The se has a non sound thats evident in direct comparison. I had them both hooked up to the 555es with splitters feeding each the same signal. This non sound I referred to previously as a complete lack of any electronic signature, and it makes the v2 se give me the most lifelike sound I have heard. I gave the v2 a listen with the sr-225s and I still hear that lack of authority that both the v1 and v2 se give you in full measure. Some may prefer this smoother and more laid back nature, but dynamics are one of my priorities and I cant get past this with the v2. But if money were tight, and your priority were a preamp that could allow you to use phones too, I would seriously look at the v2.

Heh, I did the same thing last night, I listened to several hours of music after posting and I found that after all is said and done I still really like the V2, it is an excellent amplifier. Of course I also got in touch with Antness today about my upgrade options so i have a feeling this review is going to cost me some money!

Ahhh well, it was still a great review!

Very informative review, sacd lover! Your comments have made me reconsider getting a V2se. Even though I am quite satisfied with my V2, I would characterize it as having a very slightly lean sound. It's definitely not thin or lacking in texture, but ultimately I would prefer an amp with just a little more body to it's sound. It really wouldn't even have to be all that much more body, as the outstanding transparency still gives me a satisfying sense of listening to the music more than the recording of it.

I wonder if antness is still doing his trade-up deals...

sacd lover
HI: I respect your review. Thank you. I have a/b the V2 and V1 and find the V2 to be an excellent amp. I guess you could upgrade it to get better sound but you can do that with anything. The V1 get very hot. My V1 has no vent on each side of it like the V2 has and the V2 doesn't get hot at all. I will admit that They both sound very close with the V2 having the edge in my opinion. I don't think that V2 owner's need to upgrade the V2 because it is a great amp but if you compare it to an upgrade V2 then maybe you would want to spend more money on it but I think the V2 is just fine the way it is. I am not deputing your findings but just feel that the V2 is one great amp and need no fixes fore the money paid for it. Just my opinion but I also respect your opinion

AdamP88 - Yes, Antness is still doing the trade up deals should you have a yen to move up the line.