One thing more, Javachip:

I too have used separates, going back to Dynakits in the 1960s, and my system is still two-channel and was all Adcom for 15 years or so, with the 60-watt GFA535 driving my Maggies. (My nOrh Le Amp 2's clearly outperform the 535, but apparently they're no longer available.) My point is that if the 1270 when working as a preamp is as transparent as the 990 it may make amplifier characteristics more audible. You'll be able to compare your Adcoms with the 1270's own amp section. Should be interesting.