Preamps better than Parasound JC-2 ?


Hello,
I am looking to try out the active preamp route in my system. The TVC has served me very well. But when I want to play my wife's iPod or try to connect a Logitech bluetooth adaptor, there is simply not enough gain in my system.
Since I have a Parasound A-21, I am naturally looking to a JC-2 from Parasound. I was wondering if anyone on this forum as come across a killer (non-tube) preamp that is in the same price range, that can beat the JC-2. If the sound quality of the recommended preamp equals that of JC-2 and the cost is below JC-2, that would be preferred. I am eying the Oppo 105D or the newly released Yamaha CD-S2100 as my future source upgrade. Rest of my system is listed on this site.
I have not visited audio stores in more than 3 years, nor have I been to any trade shows, hence asking for feedback.

Thanks!
128x128milpai
@bpoletti Thank You for the recommendation. Yes, I would like to have XLR. No two thoughts on that. If the preamp does not have it, it is a no starter for me. My amp sounds amazing with XLR instead of RCA, even though it is not a "true balanced" design. Don't plan to change the amp in the near future.

I have a Pass Labs XP20 that I picked up for $4200.00 The best I've ever owned! Joe
Can it be true that this thread has gone on for 4 years?  The date of the OP is 7/11/2014.  And during this time the picky milpai has rejected all suggestions for one reason or another.

db
Why not a  SS passive with OpAmp on board? I love my Hattor but it does not have an OpAmp, which I  need for impedance matching to my amp XLR provides ~ 6dB more gain