Looking for a tube Preamp new or used for under $2000...


Hi all,

I am looking for a tube preamp for my Parasound A21 amp. I currently have a Parasound p6 preamp, but have been told that a “Tube” preamp not a SS preamp would make a huge improvement. My budget is $2k however, I would prefer to spend less! I am looking at McIntosh and audio research preamps. I am willing to purchase an older preamp, but not one that I would need to send it into be serviced. Any suggestions? Thanks!
matt00
I have a PrimaLuna Prologue 3 preamp in great shape that I am planning on listing for under $1,000. Let me know if you’re interested.
I also have the A21 but with the P5 pre.  I have also wondered what a tube preamp would do for that vaunted “tube sound”.  I’m looking at these options as well.  👍🏻
If you have the patience to wait, I'd suggest keeping an eye out for a Backert Labs Rhumba tube preamp. They sell for ~$2k used, but only show up every couple/few months. It's a great sounding preamp and the manufacturer provides outstanding support. 
I would not go for a tube preamp with a parasound amp i have owned a parsound amp for twenty years and even my audio research pre amp will not work with it the impedance mismatch is too great to overcome. Find yourself a better solid state pre amp even a good vintage one will vastly out perform a new parasound preamplifier. I have owned two parasound preamps and switched to other companies offerings because of better sound reasons.
@speakermaster, thanks for the advise.  How do I learn about impedance matching between preamplifier and amp?  I thought of impedance regarding speakers (4, 6 or 8 ohms) but not between electronic gear.