PreAmp shortlist:ARC LS8MKII, BC BC21, Rogue 99?

Ok, try a BAT vk3i and a VK200 or VK60...

The audible illusions mentioned above is another great choice...

I listened to the BAT vk3i today and was very impressed with the balance, nothing really stood out it just seemed like it did everything right. The only thing that made me nervous was there was a very high noise floor. Is a high noise floor characteristic of BAT or do you think there was something wrong with the dealers setup?
Thanks,
MEby

You'll never regret the Rogue 99

Take a look at the VTL TL2.5, new linestage, with remote for $1,500. You can find a used one for $750-$950 depending on age and whether or not it has the MM/MC phono stage. Throw some Mullard or Telefunken AT7/AU7 tubes in it and save $500. I was browsing Upscale Audio's site for some NOS 12AX7 tubes for my phono stage, and noticed that Kevin has a used linestage unit for $749.

FWIW, my ProAc 1.5s love the VTL power amp...

Here's a 2nd vote for the VTL 2.5TL. Try to make sure you get the "v.2" version--only way to tell is to call VTL with the SN of the unit you are buying.