Suggestions for a tube preamp

I have the MFA Magus, and I think it is awesome for the money. Really nice phono stage, and plenty of gain. You might not need phono now, but you might want it later, and this phono stage is a good one. It's like getting the great phono stage for free, because this linestage is also great for the money.

You should check out the Antique Sound Labs AQ2001DT preamp. I auditioned it with the Tulip amp and was very very impressed. They bettered the Rogue 88/66 setup for a lot less money. Both setups were playing Tannoy D700s. www.divertech.com. Arthur

I went through this about three years ago and wound up listening to virtually all of the stuff on your list - the Blue Circle BC21 was slightly but definitely better than the competition that you have listed. BUT...I did not listen to the Magus, and it is well regarded by a number of people. Bottom line: try and listen to as many of them as possible and trust your ears.

Check out the Marsh p2000t, tube hybrid, this is their description:
The P2000t Tube Hybrid Performance Pre-Amp
A superior perfromance tube preamp with triode tube, one of the most linear devices ever developed was designed for the lowest distortion possible. Here it is combined with the FET, creating a new and entirely modern circuit called the " Trans-Mu amplification stage." This brings out all the benefits of the triode tube- extremely low noise, wide frequency response, low distortion - and eliminates the triode's drawbacks.Each channel uses two triode tubes with a push-pull output for low output impedance. The P2000t is able to drive even the longest cables without music deterioration.The filament voltage is direct voltage through a powerful C-multiplier filter, which ensure the lowest noise and the longest, most reliable operation. How low is low? Dead quiet-so you can hear event the most subtle elements in the music. Marsh-designed capacitors provide great accuracy and high-resolution of details- for the most realistic music reproduction possible and for reliable, long-life performance.Both line amplifiers are fitted with remote 12VDC control for custom installation and easy on/off control of other equipment in the system.

I bought mines used here at AG for $895. It is an incredible preamp that sounds with the best regardless of price. Be aware that there is no remote which is the only drawback. Good luck in your search.

ASL also makes a remote controlled 2A3 preamp for under $1200