Verity speakers for $7k or less?

I use a Cary V12R to drive a pair of Fidelio Encores. It's a solid combination and Fedelios can be had in the $5k range. Great, moderately sized speaker. Very refined sounding.

Larry, if the preamp question was directed to me, the answer is no. I've used a bunch of different "pre"s over the years, ranging from warm sounding tube units (Audible Illusions and Joule Electra) to more neutral sounding tube units (ARC) to classic SS sound (Benchmark). Depending on my mood (and the source material) I might favor any of the above on a given day. The AI is probably closest to the Cary sound and I liked that combo very much.

As always, YMMV.

I might have to unbox the GLP 98 after all. I know it excels at warmth and sweetness over ultimate detail - and the Verities like detail. But it could be very good anyway.

I'm past the point of obsessing over maximizing the performance of my audio system. Just looking to have good sounding music around the house after a hard days work these days...

If you have the SLP98 it would not make any sense NOT to listen to it. There is no substitute for listening in your own room, with your own gear, since only YOU know your musical tastes.

You may find the combo extremely musical and satisfying. You must be very careful when chasing the ultimate in resolution, because once you've gone too far, it's no longer fun to listen anymore. That has just been my experiences. Resolution can be intriguing, to a point. Once you've past that point, it can become unpleasant. Many mistakes can be made by letting others tell you what sound you will enjoy. Suggestions can be helpful, but they can also be harmful. Make your own decisions whenever possible. Trust your ears.

I owned the Parsifal Encores with the second tweeter for 7 years, and used them with the Cary SL98P and an Audio Research tube amp, the combo was NOT too warm, it was actually fantastic.