I have continued to play the NOH 24x7 and it has taken a big leap forward from where it was out of the box (I have about 150-160 hours on the unit).
This preamp is by far the most revealing one I have ever owned (including the Placette and a slew of well reviwed actives by Audio Note, Musical Fidelity, Manley, Sonic Frontiers, BAT, AVA).
But not only is it revealing, it is musical and well balanced. Out of the box it was a little grainy and the extremes were a little lacking. I am happy to report that at this point it is MORE dynamic than the other preamps. There is a snap and crispness that wasn't there before. The leading edge of the notes seems to now jump from the RM 40's! Highs are extended (while not how I ultimately want them - I think it is b/c of my dac and not the preamp, amp, or speakers) and have a nice bloom and decay.
This well worth the wait and John is great to deal with as everybody has already mentioned.
Thanks again John.
George