Tube Pre-amp Suggestions.

Quite happy with my Luxman CL38uc -it's at the top of your budget but you do see the odd one come up for sale. Tubes if you're that. I like the combo of a tube preamp and ss amp. If I've a complaint it's the lack luster remote for what that's worth. Otherwise no question regarding Luxman quality, both build and sound. Lots of "professional" reviews out there that are all positive. 

E.

https://aricaudio.com/tube-gear/
I’m using the Motherload XL with my Luxman M10X. I compared with the Luxman C900 and ended up selling it as I like the Motherload as it it is a warmer sound.

@aricaudio 

Tons of great suggestions, thanks to all! Let me take this one step further. I have a DAC that has pre-amp capabilities. It's to my understanding that having a pre-amp (analogue) will sound better than the digital attenuation. If I'm just looking for a volume control, do I need such an elaborate pre-amp or should I even bother and just stick with the DAC?

Maybe I should start a new thread on this...

@kds if you DAC had Preamp capabilities, then yes you can live without a standalone preamp

Fezz Audio Sagita Prestige - fully balanced tube preamp for $3495.