Preamp under $2,000.

Old Counterpoint or DeHavilland and sent it to me for upgrades.

Happy Listening

Look for a Audio Alchemy DDP-1 (DAC/Pre) with PS 5 outboard power supply for the Rotel price. No comparison

What sound characteristics are you looking for?  What are you using now?

Benchmark LA4 - solid state recommendation for transparency, speed and neutrality

Don Sachs Pre - Tube recommendation for tweakability of sound through tube roll, and ability to (with the right tubes) add the organic life to music without compromising on speed and transparency

Both can be had for $2K with a bit of shopping.

My setup for the preamp:
Amps: 2 ea Primaluna Dialogue 7 tube monoblocks
Speakers: 2 ea Tannoy Revolution XT8F
Turntable: Marantz TT-15s1
Cartridge: Sumiko Blackbird MC
Phono Preamp: Musical Fidelity M6s vinyl
CD Player: Cambridge Audio CXC v2 CD transport
DAC: RME ADI-2

I am currently using a Denon AVR X6500H with preouts as a preamp in pure direct stereo mode. Definitely in need of an upgrade .