Empirical Labs EL-9 Mike-E or Newton Channel with U87ai

So I'm in the market for a channel strip. Preferably a non 1073 style channel strip to pair with my U87ai for vocals. Previously I used a GTQC although a 1073 style it has its own sound that's not really 1073ish IMO. I sold that unit and looking for something different. I narrowed my options down to EL-9 Mike-E and Newton Channel.

Only issue I see with Newton channel is not non-existence of a variable attack. Other than that, I'm leaning more towards the Newton however I have heard good things about the EL-9.

Just curious as to everyone's experience with both units to help me narrow down a choice.