@hilde45 -
I second the suggestion of a used ARC or CJ. Both companies have set the standard at various times in tube preamps, both have been around a LONG time (in hifi terms), both can still service their products. And they are effectively free if you want to sell them on later and get something different - you're likely to get close to what you paid for them when you resell them (assuming you don't keep them 10+ years, at least!).
It can be really tempting to chase the unique, new, and exciting - avoid that temptation and you'll most likely be happier in the long run.
And while it is a drive, a visit to Rick at Audio Alternative in Ft. Collins would be well worth it.
I second the suggestion of a used ARC or CJ. Both companies have set the standard at various times in tube preamps, both have been around a LONG time (in hifi terms), both can still service their products. And they are effectively free if you want to sell them on later and get something different - you're likely to get close to what you paid for them when you resell them (assuming you don't keep them 10+ years, at least!).
It can be really tempting to chase the unique, new, and exciting - avoid that temptation and you'll most likely be happier in the long run.
And while it is a drive, a visit to Rick at Audio Alternative in Ft. Collins would be well worth it.