Preamp suggestions for Thiel 3.6 & Bryston 4B-sst


I've got a bright sounding system due to the wide dispersion of my Thiel 3.6 speakers and a 'live' room.

I'm using a solid state Bryston BP25 preamp now but am considering other options (up to $2500 used) to warm/sweeten things up and soften the top end. Rock can be harsh. Ideally I'd like:
1. Balanced and single ended ins and outs
2. Phono stage (MM at least, MC a bonus) plus tuner and balanced CD input
3. Remote (Yes I'm lazy I know)
4. Headphone output would be nice but not essential

I like what I've read about Audio Research preamps. Seems like they are detailed while still having that tube warmth and sweetness.

Suggestion welcome. Thanks!
dbdog
Dave, if I read you right and you don't want to do tubes, i certainly understand. In my feable opinion. As close as you'll come on a reasonable budget in solids state would be an old Classe. DR5 or DR6. The Classe 5 or 6 can be had with remotes and they are an off shoot of the DR's but not as warm. The CP's are similar to the 5 or 6, but a tad more refined. Classe is probably your best bet.
I don't find the Audio Research solid state particularly warm, but in their solid state, I'd probably look at a LS-9. Good luck, Tim
Timlub, is right on. Many Thiel owners like cj pres. One caveat; you'll lose the advantages of balanced inputs on your Bryston.
I have very similar setup and went from Bryston BP-25 to BAT VK-42SE (solid state) paired with Bryston amps (either PP300's or 7B-SST's). I am currently using Thiel SCS4 but have also had Revel Salons with the above combo. I like the BAT more than the BP-25. It sounds a little more smooth and better on the highs than the BP-25.

Mind you the cost difference between the 2 is quite large. MSRP BAT - $7000 and Bryston $2000 (back in the day). I paid $3500 for a 1 month old used BAT. I wouldn't have replaced the Bryston for something that costs much more than that due to diminishing returns.
Yyz, when you say better on the highs, can you elaborate please.

Timlub, I'd rather have the ease and convenience of SS but I kinda think I'm not going to get the sonic result I'm looking for without tubes somewhere in my chain, based on what I read. With my speakers I think I need the muscle and control of a beefy SS amp such as Bryston or Krell that doubles down under low impedance loads (my Thiel spend a fair amount of time under 4 ohms and dip to 2). That leaves the preamp to add the tube warmth and 3D imaging. That's my thinking to date anyway.

My Bryston BP25 has a very clear and transparent sound but it's on the dry and cold side.

I'll check out the classe ones you suggested, thanks.