All the Pre's you mentioned are SS which may not accomplish your goal.
A tube Pre may be the best choice for you, tubes can absolutely take an edge off the highs. I found EI 12ax7 tubes to be very laid back. Pre's using 12ax7s or 5751s give a lot of choice. I am sure you will find some tubes that suit your taste well. A SS Pre will not have this "tweakability."
I like preamps which dont modify the sound at all. Which is probably why I liked the Bryston products so much. Having said that, I would recommend strongly that you audition, in home if you can, several selections before buying.
You may also be able to take some of that harshness out with IC selection. I thought that Cardas was a little laid back. Just a thought.
