preamp suggetions for mid lvl system

Keroo, check out a used bryston pre. They would be nice, neutral and reliable. I'm using an Odyssey Tempest Extreme that I'm happy with. i'm not sure that it would be easy to locate in India. Bryston would most likely be easier to find.

The Rotel RC-955 is a very refined pre-amp. Not at all bright sounding. Musical best sums it up. I like this pre-amp better than the Bryston BP-25 which I owned previously. Plus, the Rotel has a superb phono section. For what these pre-amps are going for used, a steal. The Classe suggestion by Aball sounds good as well. Haven't heard the NAD C-162, I'm sure it's a fine unit as well. The B&K was too dark sounding IMO and it did not sonically impress me at all. Perhaps in another system w/different comonents......Bill.

many thanks for all the suggestions. But it seems that once you get to a certain 'level' in your music system the only way to 'flavour' the sound to your liking is to keep swapping units. (unless you spend obscene amounts of money I guess)

Would like to know how long one lets a 'new' piece burn in with the old system before deciding its better or worse

Keroo,
Might you consider a used Primaluna preamp? Tubes would smooth out most or any fatigue. Plunas are fairly new and are still in good condition.
I say go with tubes, the Plunas are well built, good match with solid state and deecent price used.
Good luck.

Oregon,
read a lot of good reviews about it, but I need two outputs. I dont think the PL one or two has two outputs.