First tube preamp recommendations (under $5k)

wouldn't go wrong trying a first sound presence.mkIII

@smodtactical
You’re new to tubes. I respectfully suggest you avoid vintage gear, no matter what upgrades or "restoration" have been done. I’m a veteran in the world of vintage tube gear and have FINALLY had enough. Over the years, I’ve upgraded and done a lot of periodic maintenance. It’s very costly. The final proverbial straw: One of my mono amps blew up a few days ago. Done.

One other thing, the Wells Commander is a hybrid, not pure tube preamp. It does sound very good, but it is a boutique item, so the resale value will certainly be impacted downward.

Full disclosure, I'm now considering many options, including Black Ice, which could be a heck of a lot for the money.

Good luck.

You can get a used Allnic L-3000 for about 4 grand. Dual mono, tube regulated, low impedance stepped attenuator, transformer coupled and puts a flat 150 ohms from 15hz to 30khz.

Amazing preamp.

Hello!
if you want to go for a low budget but good sounding go for the QUAD Twentyfour Pré Amp.

if money is not an issue go for the VTL 5.5 or 6.5

Browsing this thread with no thought of spending such money? You might be interested in this " Buyer's report: Xiangsheng 728A tube pre-amplifier " that I had posted on another forum.