Just received my new nOrh SE-18. It sounds pretty great right out of the box. I think it is really beautiful. Even better than those pictures at the nOrh webite. I can't believe that they can offer something this nice, with all the chrome, ceramic sockets, phono stage, Electro Harmonix tubes, and the nicest volume pot I have used yet, at this price. It gets plenty loud enough with the Druid's as well. Very clear. Maybe it will sound even better later. Peace