Anybody have the Benson Preamp(orig or germ) or a Hudson Broadcast (any version)?

Pine Apple Slim

Armchair Expert
Id love to hear you comments. Ive been on a simplifying kick down to the pedals that I actually use live. Riight now its boiled down to a tuner of course, sometimes a FF but only if Im playing a Strat, a Diamond Jr comp as a subtle always on security blanket, the Browne Protein, and a DM2w analog delay. Into the Carr with its killer verb and trem thats all I use. But Id like an dirt alternative to the smooth Nashville thing, something a bit edgier and rockier.
These preamps have me interested, but it's a big investment.
Thinking If I got the Germanium Benson I might could kick off the Diamond Comp Jr and prob never bother with a FF anymore. Or keeping the comp, any of these would make another killer core tone alternative to the Protein.
Am I wrong?
In any case I would love to hear some thoughts on either of these preamps.
 
Looks cool. You’ll have to let us know what you think once it arrives.

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I kept going back and forth on these but decided on the softer Germanium. Best I can tell the reg model is brighter w faster attack & more gain and the Broadcast even morso, glassy even. I just want a different crunchy thing as alternative to smoother Protein Green side. Still think the Germ pre will be different enough character, like a smaller amp/tweedy breakup thing. Plus clean up like a FF cranked. Thats the plan anyway.
 
Here's the plan for my ultimate no nonsense gigging board w everything I need and nothing I dont. Im ditching the Diamond Comp Jr safety blanket and the ph95 which I only used for a Waylon tune or two. I have some taller feet for the little flat board to get the mini iso brick underneath. Switching to the Polytune on true bypass so I can hit the Benson Germanium Preamp directly with the guitar for max control/cleanup from vol knob. When playing a Strat hopefully I can crank the Benson's gain and use it like a Fuzz Face.
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I know you've already made your choice but I've had great results in the past just by emailing the builder.

I'm also fortunate to have some local shops that have pretty solid relationships & experience w/ all sorts of tasty product that can steer me in the right direction. Hanks music exchange is my go-to and Hank has always given me great advice. They're a Benson dealer & Benson is local too.
 
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