First tube preamp recommendations (under $5k)

@smodtactical 

I would back up the recommendations for either a Cary SLP-98 or SLP-05. Both are phenominal in my system, running into a Pass XA25, and can be had for less than 5k used.

I had a Rogue RP-5 before the Cary preamps and just like avanti1960 found it to be lacking compared to the Cary preamps with respect to dynamics, tone and timbre in my system.

I've recently purchased a Backert Labs Rhumba and am using this with a Pass XA 30.8  Absolutely love the combination. I would also consider a Cary.

invalid I talked to the space tech labs guy and the 1 thing I didn't like he wasn't willing to show me the internals (he claims since he doesn't want people to copy him). Its something I don't like about mcintosh either.


Most audiophiles don't even know what point to point wiring is supposed to look like anyway, they think it's all the internal parts are supposed to be in neat rows, which isn't  point to point wiring, it's hand wiring but not point to point. True point to point wiring is almost a lost art very few manufacturers do it.

i have 5 k hours on my REF5se, zero issues requiring dealer….

@smodtactical   
The Cary SLP-05 is a smooth dynamic performer with a huge soundstage.  It tends to be "phatter" and bassier, I really love the sound.  The Rogue RH-5 is more neutral and transparent.  

@rmdmoore 
I owned the Rogue RH-5 before I bought the RP-7.  It was a direct comparison.  The RH-5 was significantly more dynamic and energetic and was more transparent than the RP-7, which was a disappointment.  
I love Rogue Audio and had a cronus magnum ii for years but I have to call them like I hear them.