If I was on a budget I would look at Rogue RP-7.
If I wanted solid state it would be Jeff Rowland Capri
I have been very happy with my Audio Research. I started with LS, now I am with REF 6SE. I recently toured the factory - I cannot see how any manufacturer could be more meticulous about crafting a preamp. Just incredible sounding and built. Interesting that the highest end manufacturers of speakers all send samples to ARC for their evaluation.