Thiel CS2.4 and suggestion on preamp

So Im getting back into Hi End Audio after many years. To that end I have purchased some Thiel CS.4's and a Vincent SP-331 amp. I've had my Acurus LS11 preamp modified by Ken Ealey. I also run a Rega Apollo R CD player. My cable is Kimber Kable 8tc speaker cable and I still use some old Tributaries for interconnects.

The sound as many of your know is very revealing on these speakers. I've been reading on this forum how many people say they are bright. I suggetst that it's not so much the fault of the speakers (though there is energy in the highs) as it is the listening position, toe in (or lack thereof) and most importantly the quality of recording that contributes to a really good sound vs. a bad sound in them. Without a doubt most of my 90's CD's sound overly bright (of course there are exceptions). However, with the right recording these speakers are wonderful. My amp is a Hybrid design with a tube front in and SS output. The Acurus line stage is going on 20 years old, but I had it refreshed by Ealey and man that thing is amazing now for a meager 300 bucks.

Currently I am auditioning my workmates VTL TL2.5 preamp just to compare for kicks. The VTL is all tube and it does soften the highs of the Thiels a bit, which allows me to enjoy many more of my older CD's. However it comes at a cost to the space around the instruments. There isn't as much air around the performers and their is a more laid back feeling while being not as detailed feel to the music. The bass of the VTL isn't as tight or controlled as the Acurus either. However, I've never had tube equipment and this expierment has me thinking of what tube preamp would be a good fit for my speakers. If my budget is $4k (but preferably $2.5K +/-) I could go with a Audio Research LS17 pr SP17, but there is no where near me to hear these pieces, for that matter any hi end gear. I limited to the internet for most of my purchases.

My question is what would be a good match for the Thiels for a preamp that would have good space around the performers, good tight controlled bass, with highs that wont aggrevate the Thiels.