Preamp for Herron VTPH-2A


Ok, the eventual goal will be to try a Herron VTSP-360.  However, that is not in the budget, even used, until sometime next year.  So, I've decided to get an interim preamp.

I have approximately 3k to work with right now.  

I'd like to hear what VTSP-2A owners are using now or have used in the past with success.

As for other suggestions, here's what I'm looking for right now.

*Needs:

Gain - I need a preamp with gain.  Somewhere around 10db to 12db would be optimal.

Transparent.  I'm not looking for coloration.  I'd like to find one that does the best job of sounding like it's not there.

Input impedance:  47K or higher with on the SE inputs.

Line level only:  No phono stage, no DAC, etc.

*Preferences:

True balanced output.  Nice, but not necessary.  I'd like to place the turntable in a spot where it needs approximately 25 feet of cable run between it and the power amp, but can live with it if it stays near the power amp.

Tone Control Bypass (no tone controls preferable)

Remote control:  Nice , but not absolutely necessary.

*Don't care:

Tubes/Solid State. As long as it is sufficiently transparent, the tech doesn't matter.

Thanks in advance.  I'm sure based on the recommendation I got for the VTPH-2A, I'll get some great suggestions.

TIA
psychoticreaction
psychoticreaction

one of the best books ever!

I want someone I know to have it so I can hear it (or not hear it). 
Well psychotic, It seems like jond handed you the perfect solution. What do you say?
I would try a tandberg preamplifier used or an adcom gfp750 used to get you by and you may like them well enough to not ever want to replace them. The tandberg is single ended and the adcom is single ended or balanced with passive option as well but both are neutral fantastic budget preamplifiers.
You might want to try either of the Denafrips linestage preamps. DENAFRIPS HESTIA PREAMPS$1,298.00  DENAFRIPS ATHENA PREAMPS$2,698.00 Both of these are in your price range and if you buy one you might just want to keep it long term.Very well built and very good reviews.