best preamps

Speaking of pedestals...I recently noticed that somebody is marketing a turntable pedestal...sort of like a  3 foot high speaker stand, but for turntables. That is simply the worst idea I've see in a while, and I'm glad I've been given an opportunity to mention it. Now, back to the previously scheduled program.

I’ve been very happy with VTL tube preamps for many years.
Had the TL-2.5 & recently upgraded to the TL-5.5
Roll some tubes & they get even better...

If I had an unlimited budget?  

I would not be here to let you know. ;)

Incomplete without mentioning Luxman C-900u. In addition the ML 523 is superlative. The designers of these two units spared no expense in these two awesome units and sonically it shows. Anyone would find happiness here.

I like the Sutherland Director (sometimes called Direct) in my system. It is bold, focused, and very lifelike. I also like a Many Moons Audio upgraded version of the Sansui CA-F1. Disclaimer: I am Many Moons Audio.

They are both very excellent preamps with different takes on the sound, yet neither sound electronic at all. I try and buy every CA-F1 I can, as I cannot hold onto them! The Director is just too rare, so one may look to Ron’s other designs, of which I have no experience with.