The Innersound Preamp is one of the very best and is available for $2,000 at audiogon. Also, consider the Plinius CD-LAD I or II (II has HT bypass); several available in your price range. Now this next one may surprise you, but consider the Citation 7.0 for your stereo preamp; its 2 channel bypass is as good as any preamp I have heard, including the Innersound. A 7.0 is currently available for $500 at audiogon. Best of all you can experiment with surround sound at its highest level if you so desire.