Best Preamp under $5k??

Atmasphere MP3.

If you need a phono stage... Hovland HP-100

If you only need a linestage... Emotive Audio Sira

Not sure about SS gear but I agree that 5K will get the job done when it comes to tube preamps. My vote goes to the SF Line 3. I never feel that I am missing something or that I wished that it sounded different. At less than 3K for a mint used unit it is a best buy IMO.

7p62mm, i *hope* ewe can get a mint used unit for <$3k, as ewe can buy a brand-gnu, unopened-box unit for ~$2750, shipped to your door! ;~) i strongly considered this unit (coulda gotten one used for $2.1k), but took adwice of someone who owned the s/f line-3 *and* the melos music-director, & i went for the melos. like ewe, i'm happy & don't wish for anything else - *that's* what's important w/audio gear, imho!

regards, doug

You're right Doug. I bought the line 3 used for $2700 last May on auction. Right after my purchase new units came out of the wood work. I chalk it up to my bad luck. I don't have the warranty but I have never had any problems with the Line 3 so far. The Melos may be better don't know as I have never had a chance to listen to one. Not being able to audition before making a purchase is a big disadvantage to the used/internet market. I am curious about what your opinion is about SS preamps. I know that SS units would not have the background hiss and lower maintenance than tubes.