Tube Preamp suggestion for the uninitiated


I'm a graduating medical student from UW Madison, and have a relatively limited budget that involves selling off everything I own on ebay in order to afford nice audio equipment. (In case you wanted to know...)

Currently have some TAD Hibachi monoblocks and monitor audio RS6 towers, and I need some tube loving preamplification after my VDAC. I have about $900 but could scrounge up to $1k if deemed quite necessary.

Perhaps advice from someone who knows what they are talking about and has the freedom to buy and try a couple of preamps? Something with nice low end and to smooth out the highs? Please no advice if you've only owned one preamp and like it! That doesn't count!
drhartung
Look up in the archives for views on the Conrad-Johnson PV 10, various, PV 11 with or without phono or PV 12 with or without phono. Formerly owned the PV 11. All of these should be about 1,000. or less. All good products.
Go with a Cayin 100 and sell off your current amps, that way you will put financial balance into the system.
I've owned TAD 150 Signature, VTL 2.5. Like them both and each cost me < $800. TAD phono section is not so good. My VTL does not have phono. Both have basic remotes.
Have not personally heard Manley Shrimp, Juicy Music Peach but have read the are also good.