FWIW, I've had no troubles running AKG C414B-ULS > T+ UA5 without level meters. I use the JB3 for L/R balance, and the UA5 peak light for, well, peaks. I've previously used a digi-mod UA5 and a warm mod UA5, so I'm accustomed to the peak meter. After running it a few times, I got to know how to guage the peak levels pretty well based on how bright / long / frequently the UA5 peak LED flashed.
All that said, if you're having trouble after 4 months, try the SVU solution - if it doesn't work out for you, there are plenty of UA5 users who will probably buy it and you'll only take a small financial hit selling it used.