Anyone familiar w/Cary SLP-98 preamp?

Steve- Watch for a used Supratek Syrah pre, though owners usually hold onto them or spring for a new one if you can stretch it. Audio Note pre/phono are quite good, though not inexpensive. Also, most MC would require outboard step-up transformers as well. Audio Innovations had similar designs if you can find one of their pre/phono used. The SLP98 just didn't do it for me. I have no doubt that with a few mods and a little tube rolling it would fit my preferences better, but stock it just wasn't resolving and involving enough in my system.
Another option would be to consider mods to your existing VTL. Power supply improvements and other parts upgrades can yield significant benefits and can be more affordable than a new pre-amp. It's just a thought. Good luck.

I have the AE-1 which is a stripped down version without phono, so I can't comment on that. Very nice preamp with a beautiful presentation that is a little tubey (in a nice way). Do a search under slp-98 on www.audioasylum.com for other owner comments.

The SLP 98 is a gem of a preamp. I sold it to get a 2002, then quickly went back to a 98. I compared it to VTL 5.5, VAC Standard Sig, Rogue 99, CJ PV-14, and the Cary was by far the most musical.

They come off and on audiogon quickly, as they are still a touted piece...hence if you see one, buy it.