I reckon Ted Kendall's Front End pre-amplifier (AKA Mousetrap) fulfils just
about all the criteria mentioned. It's a beautifully hand-crafted 3u device
with 2 phono inputs, balanced inputs and outputs pre-, and post-eq. It also
incorporates Packburn-type noise reduction side chains that are easily be
switched out of circuit. I believe a smaller, stereo version, without the
side chains is under development.
It's well known and used by serious archivists in the UK (EMI sound archive,
Abbey Rd, CHARM - King's College London, British Library etc). Personally,
I'm thoroughly convinced of its sonic neutrality, and never hesitate in
recommending it for transfer projects I'm involved with. It's in another
league to much of the competition as one might infer from the hefty price tag!
More info here http://www.tedkendall.com/mousetrap.php
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