Tube preamp with the "most" for 1k used, 2k new?

I had the previous model of the Cary, the AE-3, and while it was nice, the Avastar is clearly better. The main difference between the AE-3 and the AES is that the newer model uses a tube rectifier, while the AE-3 used SS for that purpose.

Modwright.

Have Modwright and AES. The Modwright is better. Both are easily upgraded.

Audio Research is a safe bet. sp16 fits the bill more or less. Includes a decent tube phono section as well.

Check out the Mystere CA21. Wonderfully natural, musical, dynamic, 3 dimensional, excellent micro and macro dynamics. Bought one a few weeks ago and I continue to be more and more impressed with it each time I listen.