Advise on used 1k to 1.5k pre-amp


I'm upgrading my system for better 2 channel performance and am looking for a pre-amp to go with Citation 7.1 amps. I'd like to get a quality transparent sounding pre-amp which will not be the limiting factor in my system. I'll be upgrading my cdp (Cambrige D500-SE) to something used also in the $1,000.00 to $1,500.00 range. Speakers will be my last upgrade and I'm looking along the lines of
B&W N804
B&W 802 Matrix S-III
Von Schweikert VR4-GenII
Vandersteen 3A-sig
Silverline Sonata
Meadowlark Heron
I'd like to get a pre-amp which will allow me to get close to the best of speakers such as these.(when combined with an equally good cdp)
say811
See if you can find a Conrad Johnson Permier 3 preamp,I would defintly go for the 802 series 3,I have a pair,and I had the C-J too and they went well together.I used Solid state power ,cheers.
Adcom 750 pre is unbelievably transparent with no feedback designed by nelson pass and class A stereophile recomended,I also agree with the B&W choice.
Go with the B&W if you like thier sound, Check older peices from Krell, Classe and ML....the 38 comes to mind for close to your price range, perhaps a tad more...but worth it.
For tubes look at some of the Audio Research and Bat equipment.....very good stuff!
as always, good luck................Vader.
Any thoughts,comparisons or recommendations regarding;
Mark Levinson 38
vrs.
Conrad Johson PFR
vrs.
Krell KRC-3

I'm considering these 3 used units as well as a new Adcom GFP-750.(is this like throughing in a Chevy against a bunch of Mercedes or is the Adcom a worthy opponent to these?) All I really care about is sound quality and reliability. Aesthetics and name brand recognition are totally secondary.

Thanks

Steve