Preamp with most dynamic contrast?

Well that's a question that invites the invariable answer: "mine" (i.e. my preamp):)

FWIW, I've liked the dynamics with a Goldmund 7(old model, within yr price range used) and CAT Ultimate (again an older used model would be within yr price range).

I have used both these pres to drive ss and tube (OTL) amps.
Another pre that I never owned but used for a while was the "big" Spectral of ~10 yrs ago. Again, excellent dynamics.
Cheers

Assuming that you are talking used prices, I would highly recommend a BAT VK-51SE. You should be able to get one for less than $5000 fairly easily. Very dynamic, with more slam than any SS preamp I've had in my system (Coda, Threshold, Krell, Levinson).

John

Bruno, I would highly recommend you audition a Placette dual mono active linestage. It is one of the great bargains in high end audio for two reasons: 1) It offers beautiful sonics, that sound like what you are looking for, and competes with reference pre-amps that cost upwards of $15000.00. I auditioned seven highly regarded pre-amps, solid state/tube, and finally chose the Placette to replace my highly regarded ML reference 32, that cost $10000.00 more then the Placette. 2) Since, Guy Hammel, the owner/designer only sells direct, his pre-amp costs $4500.00, thousands less because their is no retail markup. Guy's a great gentleman and you get a 30 day audition period to make your decision. I hope you would consider putting the Placette active linestage on your audition list.

Before you switch out your pre-amp, try a Musical Fidelity tube buffer stage X-10v3 between the CD player and the Pre-amp. This will eliminate "loading" while allowing maximum transfer between the two components. I recently purchased one and am extremely pleased with the results. You can purchase from Underwood HiFi for 375.00 shipped and return if not satisfied. I believe the X-10v3 will allow more dynamic contrasts in your system AND help give you some of that tube sound you crave.

John