Budget preamp recommendation...besides Schiit.

@elliottbnewcombjr said, "tell the wife NO MORE SHOES (just for a year)". Uh, a divorce will cost you a LOT more than any preamp. Tread carefully. 

@mjcmt 

The Parasound P6 and the Z-Pre 3 sound virtually the same as preamps, that is pretty much silent. The difference is the features, the P6 has a DAC, balanced connections, and a variable crossover for the sub. If you don't need those features I would get the Z-Pre. I own the ZPre and have used it in my desktop system and my main system. Small, nice remote, sounds fantastic and not just for the money. Extremely clean signal.

Suggestions from a previous a thread on the relevant topic...

No experience with, but the Van Alstine pre is supposed to be really good. No other component influences the overall character of your electronics as the preamp. Stretch the budget a little and buy one that you won’t have the urge to upgrade anytime soon. Buy once, cry once !

I would recommend a used Backert or the current deal they are offering on their 1.3 models. They use two 12AU 7 tubes and have a completely neutral  sound signature and yet add real depth, clarity and realism to a system. Highly recommended!