The Benchmark AHB2 + Topping pre90 + Ext90 (if you need more XLR and RCA source connections). This system will cost you $3850 purchased new. I maybe willing to sell my Topping pre90 + Ext90 since it does not work well with my CODA #8. I will be putting it into storage shortly once another preamp is returned from repairs.
The Topping pre90 is like the Benchmark LA4 (so very neutral and clean) and actually measures a bit better. The LA4 is more robust (works with everything) and much better feature wise. However, when the pre90 is matched properly with an amp, the pre90 is very similar to the LA4 sound quality wise. One of the Stereophile reviewers uses the AHB2 + pre90 combo on his main rig. I did too for a while but went back to the LA4 (long story).
I tried the following amps with $599 pre90:
1) LSA Voyager 350 GAN (does not work well, too loud)
2) CODA #8 (does not work well, too loud)
3) Benchmark AHB2 works great
4) Parasound A21+ works great ($3500 new)
With the AHB2 + pre90 combo you are taking the neutrality of the system to the extreme. You will really only hear the sonic character of your source.
The Topping pre90 is like the Benchmark LA4 (so very neutral and clean) and actually measures a bit better. The LA4 is more robust (works with everything) and much better feature wise. However, when the pre90 is matched properly with an amp, the pre90 is very similar to the LA4 sound quality wise. One of the Stereophile reviewers uses the AHB2 + pre90 combo on his main rig. I did too for a while but went back to the LA4 (long story).
I tried the following amps with $599 pre90:
1) LSA Voyager 350 GAN (does not work well, too loud)
2) CODA #8 (does not work well, too loud)
3) Benchmark AHB2 works great
4) Parasound A21+ works great ($3500 new)
With the AHB2 + pre90 combo you are taking the neutrality of the system to the extreme. You will really only hear the sonic character of your source.