Back to Schitt again. This new preamp from them is the best I have heard from them (including Freya+).

Schiit Audio: Audio Products Designed and Built in Texas and California

MJOLNIR 3

CLASS A HEADPHONE AMP & PREAMP

As a headphone amp it fails my very demanding phones (but that is OK). Less demanding phones are likely great with it. As a preamp into 2 amps (used for headphones and 2-channel) this thing is great. On the headphones it is reference class via the 20-watt ’Class A’ Schitt Aegir amp. As 2-channel to my Magtech amp (500-watts) and Magnepan LRS+ it is really good.

The Aegir path is better than even my Benchmark LA4 or Holo Serene preamps. On the Magtech path I prefer the other 2 but most would likely prefer the Mojolnir.

This preamp is on a limited run by Schitt. I am sure the reviews will be great.

+1 for the Rogue RP-1.  That amp cost you about $2K new now with tax.   You can find them for little more that $1K.  Respectable phono stage, add a couple NOS tubes and you got big bang for $

I am currently using the Linear Tube Audio Micro Zotl M2 with the upgraded power supply and the remote. Hard to beat under $2K.I also recommend any preamp from Dave Belles. I have a refurbished Audibile Illusions that sounds great, and an Audio Research SP9 II, an early Aric Audio all great. Used is the way to go (at the right price).

I have Linear Tube Audio Micro Zotl M2, best bang for the buck. There's one on Ebay now for $989. In my second system I have an Essence HDACC which is a preamp with dac $699 new. Read the review in TAS.

Thanks everyone for all the response. Seems like folks are happy w/ a variety of products, most of which are above my available cash on hand. I'll just have to see if anything shows up at resale shops. I suppose I'm not that picky for a preamp to partner w/ my 25 yr old Arcam Alpha P8 power amp.