Preamp advice

I've had the Audio Research I've had the Rogue audio I've had the bryston I've had the blue circle etc etc etc the only one that sounds like real music and really kicks ass really dynamic sounds like real music in your room audible illusions

Sounds way less like hifi a lot closer the sound of the real thing

Given the price limit specified and the preference for valves, you might try the Schiitt Freya + preamp. It is selectable between a passive  setting, zero gain, a "buffered" solid state stage and a tube stage (octal, 4 tubes) with 12dB gain. It is well-reviewed and reasonably-priced. Schiit has a direct sales distribution but their warranty service is good.

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Given the price limit specified and the preference for valves, you might try the Schiitt Freya + preamp. It is selectable between a passive  setting, zero gain, a "buffered" solid state stage and a tube stage (octal, 4 tubes) with 12dB gain. It is well-reviewed and reasonably-priced. Schiit has a direct sales distribution but their warranty service is good.

I also run a MC275VI with modded Cornwall IV's.  I tried a number of tube pre amps starting with a C2300, then C500T, both were blown out of the water by a Modwright LS100.  To say I was shocked is an understatement.  I could have easily lived with the LS100, but in my large dedicated listening room, I found the lack of a volume readout to be a PITA.  I purchased a Don Sachs II from Don just prior to him signing on with Spatial Audio and my pre amp journey is over.  It is an outstanding match.  Uncharacteristically there are 2 or 3 "used" DS II's on the market currently as some users have moved up to his new offerings thru Spatial.

I also auditioned Schiit Freda+, Rogue RP9,  Aesthetics Calypso.  Didn't work for me in my room.

Enjoy!