What preamp should I buy ?

There is a Wright Sound Lab WPL20 available on AudioGon for ~$850 (not mine!). This is a hand-built, full-function, two-chassis tube unit that is something very special. I liked it more than some very expensive preamps that I had compared it with. I've also had several very good conversations with its designer, and I feel he stands behind his stuff to a much greater exent than most that I've encountered.

I narrowed it down to 2 choices. The ARC LS3 and a SP8.
I believe I might have just made a deal on a SP8.

For under a grand, EE Minimax INHO the best UNDER 1000 FOR EVEN USED.

Scott-I dont know if you know this,but Mark O.(Rogue) has a new 2 tube,remote preamp out.
He has a new tube amp out also.
The new preamp is of the same high caliber construction of his other products.
The new preamp has the 2 tubes coming up through the top cover,surrounded by a chrome cage.
It comes with the usual heavy,steel milled remote.
Retail-$995.00
It might be worth giving Mark a call or e-mail.
He's a great guy and will give you personal attention.
As a side note.I wouldnt under estimate Chinese audio products.

Before you choose the SP-8, you should find out if it is MK II version. The MK II is much better than MK I. How does it perform? Lets just say that my vintage 60s preamp beat it by far in both phono and line stage. Not to mention the vintage preamp only cost around $400.
I do agree with you about the Chinese preamps and amps. The ones I have auditioned are not very clean sounding lack of body and transparency.