Preamp under $2,000.

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 .

There is a Parasound JC-2 for sale right now on Audiogon for $1900.  It is a very nice pre and that is a great price.  I've never seen a bad review.  I have one and have been very pleased with it.  

Conrad Johnson PFR. There's one on US Audio Mart for $1500, new caps, refurbished by CJ guy Bill Thalman.

sooo many out there

a few examples

ayre (for clean and pure ss, zero noise)
w4s top of line (ss cleanliness)
vac vintage (spotlit tubey goodness)
cary slp98 (smooth and sexy)
modwright swl 9.0 (tube midrange magic with ss extension)