This is always the issue isn't it. One hears one way, and someone else hears another. You really need to try one out for yourself in your application. Guitar Center and others have a 30 day policy, so if you want to try one, you risk nothing.
Phil at ART is a good friend of mine, so I don't say much about his gear, other than the tube is in the output stage, so to use it, you have to push it. The Meek is a mic pre, compressor, EQ, DI, with dual outputs, so its a lot of bang for the buck. If you want testamonials, go to
www.joemeek.com but again, all you get is opinions.
There is a replacement for the VC3Q that does beef up the mic pre and ads a mic/line switch. It will be called the MQ3, but you're lookin at 30 to 45 days. In either case, the VC3Q is a great box, and is well worth its price if that is what you're looking for.
As for the Studio Projects VT-1...well that is in a different league and will not be out until January. So, listen to what people say, but listen for yourself.
Alan Hyatt
PMI Audio Group