Preamp Upgrade

I used to have that same preamp and with your budget you could certainly improve on it. Browsing the listings a few things that jumped out at me.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9d9ic-first-sound-presence-deluxe-4-0-with-paramount-upgrade-tu...
If you can accommodate  three chassis this is a serious dual mono preamp and a really great deal for $3495.
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-doshi-audio-preamplifier-system-2017-04-01-preamplifiers-9812...
I have not heard any of his gear but Nick Doshi is certainly getting tons of great reviews and show mentions and this preamp looks like a nice deal.
And of course you could always upgrade to a new Herron.......
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9af8j-herron-audio-vtsp-3a-tube
There are certainly some nice choices within your budget have fun choosing and I hope you find a preamp you love!

You should look into Don Sachs SP14 preamp.  You could get his pre with all the upgrades for a lot less than $3500. 

I replaced a dual mono TVC in my system for better Dynamics and drive. But never expected the new preamp to beat the TVC for transparency. I highly recommend the Backert Labs Rhumba 1.3  for you. You will have to add the phono separately though.

+1 on Backert.