Best solid state pre-amp below US $ 10.000,00 ??

I had the linestage feature within the Audio Aero Prima DAC (the same as used in the Capitole) I used to own. I ran it as a preamp for a short while, and I can tell you that it is no match for any of the quality preamps you mention above, or my current fave, the DeHavilland UltraVerve.

Frankpiet, the pre-amps that I compared the Placette to were, ML-32 reference, Weytech Opal linestage, Hovland, Lamm reference, and Ayre. None of them were bad by any means, but with my gear synergy was the best with the Placette and matched my personnal taste. As far as the Placette website, just go to the manufacturer's list here on the GON and it will give you the address. Hope this helps.

Teajay: thanks a lot. I´ve just send an email to them - and got already a reply - very nice. Will follow up on that.

1markr: I´ve just spoken to the german distributor of AA. He told me, that the optional line-stage module in the AA offers the maximum in sonics to be achieved as the complete audio signal of the AA Cap. runs through the internal line stage - to him an external pre-amp would only add colouration to the signal - sounds a bit bizare...

Teajay, AA's response is typical. Don't believe it unless you try it.

Tbg, why would he lie about something so easy to verify? Does he want people to think he is stupid or a liar!?!

Typical audiophile response!?!