Whats a good inexpensive passive pre

Go with the best and consider a Reference Line Preeminence. You should be able to find one used in your price range. It bettered all the high priced active pre-amps used in my system.

EVS Ultimate Attenuators.

I own them and find them a huge bang for the buck. I personally prefer having dual volume controls as I can easily center the soundstage if I shift listening positions.

I also own a Django TVC passive silver wired with S&B transformers. The EVS are one fifth the price and virtually identical performers to my ears.

Best wishes whatever you decide.

jb

Another vote for the EVS attenuators. These things are outstanding.

Just got a preeminence silver signature a week ago. my first passive preamp. very impressive product. I like it.