Which of the following preamps?

Andy

Of the list you gave - I am familiar with Conrad-Johnson. I call tell you that all their preamps have a tube-like quality to the sound - and are well made with great warranty to boot! Not knowing how experienced you are in this hobby - I will tell you that once you get over $1500 price range (new price) - the differences in overall sonics are minimal until you get into the $4K territory. That does not mean that you won't prefer one over the other, just that above that range you're more likely to be looking at one area of the sonics.

I use a Conrad-Johnson PF2 Solid State preamplifier with a homemade single ended triode amplifier. Yeah, the sound is sweet!! Hope this helps!

Studio 1

I own / owned CJ , ARC and SF . The only one that ever required service is the SF. They all sound great. The CJ is a little warmer, The ARC a little more detailed. Both great your choice depends on the associated components and the style of sound you prefer.

May I suggest you consider the AES DJH Super Preamp? Especially outfitted with Polk NOS tubes, this simple pre sounds outstanding. Currently, one is being offered on A-gon.