Please help me chose a tube preamp

I bought Cary Audio SLP 05 preamp with upgrade about 4 months ago, that cost me just below $9000. When I turned it on, I was terribly disappointed but Mr. Bill Wright assured me that it will change after 100 hours. He suggested I leave preamp only on with some music playing, through the weekend (about 80 hours) and there was dramatic improvement. Over next week with regular listening, sound got better and now, I think it is fantastic. It has dynamics, clarity and musicality that I had not expected. I am very happy about the purchase. Currently, I am using the tubes that came with it (Electrolux), plan to try other tubes in future. Cary audio has 30 day trial (please check about this on their website). It might be an option for you.

I second the SLP-05 . I have had mine for 5-6 years and couldn't be happier . One caveat however , it sounds much better in single ended than balanced . YMMV . Good luck . 

VTL makes good equipment that sounds good. I’ve had a VTL 7.5 (first version) since shortly after it was issued and have had no problems. However, I would add that dealing with the company directly leaves something to be desired.

All i can say is the the PS Audio BHK preamp transformed my system.   i had been running directly from the PS DSD DAC to the BHK amp,  but the preamp really improved every aspect of the sound.  very reliable and great functionality and PS has great customer service.  I am not in the audio biz so this is not written with any ulterior motive.

Croft tube preamps are really something special.