re: phono preamps; is vintage ss any good?

is high quality solid state amplification from the 70s and 80s any good by modern standards? The question includes older ML, McIntosh, etc., which can be a relative bargain. I am wondering whether I must upgrade my c. 1985 DB Systems db-2A preamp (I am using only the phono section now, which was widely respected back in the day). I love tubes and share many audiophile's objections to the sound of ss, but it is hard to complain about modern high-dollar ss. I bought the $250 Bellari phone pre based largely on Fremer's rave; it may have tube warmth, but lacks acceptable clarity, imho, and I quickly reverted to the db systems. New phono pre's can be very dear, and I wonder how high up the food chain I would have to go to get acceptable sound, or if it's necessary.