I would highly recommend a CAT SL-1 MK 3 tube pre-amp. Price for a used piece will be around $2300 for line-stage only. It features out-board power supply, stepped attenuators, balance control and has a high resale value. Phono units are available but will be a little more.
The sound of this piece leans more on the bright/forward side but that will vary from tube choice. There is no hookup for home theatre/bypass and is strictly for 2-channel setups.