Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?

I have researched this a lot. If you can keep an eye out for a DeHavilland UltraVerve III on the used sites, snap it up. They come up and they are really exceptional.

@nightfall I'm no expert, but I'm always browsing tube preamps to see what's out there. Mainly looking for a truly wire balanced preamp.

From my searches on the used market here are a few suggestions.

Cary audio SLP-98 with 6SN7 tubes (many say these tubes sound great)

VTL older 2.5 (I own one built in 2013 it's a tank)

Modwright  SWL 9.0 or LS100

BAT (Many versions)

Prima Luna

Audio Research (Many older versions)

My preference is the CARY or VTL, from what I have read only. I'm sure there are many users with real experience on here.

I would second (from reading and friends' experiences):

Cary audio SLP-98 with 6SN7 tubes (many say these tubes sound great)
VTL older 2.5 (I own one built in 2013 it's a tank
Modwright  SWL 9.0 or LS100

I also would really look hard at Aric Audio, e.g.: this one.
Or another.
Aric is very polite, writes back quickly, engaged in his work, great customer reviews and reports.

Aric is a great guy, and makes wonderful stuff. I own one of his 300B power amps. But the preamp you recommended, while I am sure is outstanding,  is $4200.00 new, and you could go years without finding one used.