Most Rockingest Preamp south of $2k used

I have yet to hear a more dynamic bass and midbass (micro and MACRO dynamic bass) that matches a midrange that does vocals proud, and just kicks ass than that from a JOULE ELECTRA LA150. (throws a huge stage too!)

now... I prefer the 6c45p/6h30 version for its detail, slam, and vivdness. BUT the older LA100 mk3 with the right NOS 5751's can rock out too! (just a more laid back presentation, you'd have to switch power cords and isolation cones to make it more forward sounding, probably).

The AI M3a can be a bit warm... and it had WAY to much gain for me (same for the Blue Circle 3.1 prior), thus limiting your ability to dial the sound in for just the right volume. BUT the lower gain (4db up to 8db) might be to low depending on your amps.

If you need more "sparkle" or a more spotlit presenation to the JOULE's, then you have to hear a CAT preamp... to me the Joule's just gets it right here...

I can definitely help on the suggestions listed above. My vote would be for you to get a Modwright SWL 9.0 (& not because I am selling mine!). I have owned many preamps. I owned a Rogue 99 Magnum. Didn't care for, noisy and not refined enough weird soundstage. I borrowed a Audio Mirror PP1 from an audiophile friend he was selling. Don't get it on this one. Didn't work in my system at all. All preamps I have owned were better than this. Had a Joule LA100III preamp, a Belles 28A, and a CJ Pv-11 and now own the Modwright and a Supratek Chardoney with cap upgrades. These 2 preamps are better than all the other preamps I have owned/tried. (although different presentations) I am keeping the Supratek and selling my Modwright (with cap upgrades & bunch of tubes). The Modwright is the most dynamic punchy preamp I have owned, perfect for rock. It is not analytical ( the newer caps help here - on Audiogon for $1675). The best prat of all the preamps I have owned. I know you wouldn't go wrong with the Modwright for your needs. If you were in the area you could borrow it and see. I have been trying out different equipment for years, and the Modwright is the best bang for buck preamp out there. It was much better than even the Belles 28A I purchased for $2400. If I could afford to keep both preamps I would, The Modwright for Rock and R&B, the Supratek for jazz and classical. Hope this helps.

From all the suggestions here and elsewhere i came out with a couple choices the Modwright SWL-9.0 or the Rogue Audio Magnum 99, now of this two which one will be the better choice for listening to hard rock.

I'm loving my new Audio Research sp-16 that I picked up new via a dealer for under $2000.

BTW, once you find a good pre-amp, I think the choice of speakers and suitable matched am[p will make the biggest difference in terms of delivering "rockingest" renditions.

I'd recommend the Ohm Walsh line of speakers (www.ohmspeakers.com) and a good high current Class D amp.