What preamp should I buy ?

Scott,

Read the reviews here on audiogon. Also, Paul modifies these preamps once they hit the states. Buy what your instincts tell you but, as a fellow Vandersteen owner I am just letting you know that this particular preamp is a good match. Also, Paul does offer an in home trial. Contact him for specifics. As far as Chinese components there are several companies offering very fine quality for your$$$. Remember that labor is quite a bit cheaper over there and this could translate into more bang for the buck.... If you are listening to 60 and 70's rock, you need the Pre to be able to separate the music so that it doesn't sound compressed. The TAD-150 has a huge 3D soundstage. Curious to see what your final decision is.

Eagleman

Scott-Rogue has already shipped out their new amp.
The preamp is shipping next week.
The integrated the end of Feb.
No,these new products are not on the Rogue site yet.
If you want to see good pics of the amp and preamp,look at the bottom of the AudiogoN home page at the CES pictures Albert Porter took.
Both amp and preamp retail for <$1K
The integrated,Im not sure.

would consider a bat...they make high quality gear that is very flexible and relaible. there customer service is second to none.

would consider the the bat 3vki(with remote) for under or around $1000. over a $1k take your pick....vk30 (bargain imo), vk30se,31se,50se etc...

cant go wrong with any of them.

I need to make a correction.
I gave the wrong retail price for the new Rogue tube amp above.The retail price is $1395.00
The new preamp is $995.00 as I stated.
As long as Im here,I will share what I found out about the new Rogue line.

Its called the "TITAN SERIES"

Atlas power amp 60 WPC
EL-34 12ax7 12au7 built in bias meter.
4 and 8 ohm taps
$1395.00

Metis preamp
Two 6SN7 tubes
Built in solid state phono stage and head phone amp. Heavy steel mil.remote
$995.00

Cronus Integrated amp 60 WPC
EL-34 12ax7 12au7
Built in solid state phono stage and head phone amp.Heavy steel mil.remote.

Scott-I really think you should check out the new Rogue preamp.
It may be a great match for your M-120's
You know as well as anyone, Rogue offers great bang for the buck products.

Just so you know, I ended up buying an ARC LS3.
And with that decision came some spare money because they are so cheap. I went on ebay and bought some vintage Infinity speakers. Well, we will see how this time goes. You never know, there may be another LS3 on the for sale list in a few weeks.