Best preamp for 2k-3k

I love my Cary Audio SLP98P, it's one of the few items I don't look at switching out. I have one of the "hot rodded" F-1 versions that Cary only sells through Upscale Audio, upgraded caps, direct coupled, HT passthrough, and more. Sound is fantastic, deep soundstage, excellent highs, and the dreamy midrange people love from tube pre's. I'm a big fan. I change out gear all of the time, but I've had this preamp 3 yrs, and don't plan on looking at any other pre in the near future. In fact, I like the sound so much I bought a Cary F-1 integrated to match with some Klipsch speakers in a second system.

Good luck.

My preamp search ended when I got a Musical Fidelity kW hybrid linestage from Walter at Underwood HiFi. Combined the best characteristics of active and passive pres that I'd tried in my system and did so much more to improve the sound. You can check out the Stereophile review of it, which also includes bench measurements from John Atkinson. I believe there is one for sale now (no affiliation with seller).

Cary SLP98 (P)

If you have enjoyed your AR LS2, be sure to audition the LS26.

Strictly personal here,I've enjoyed a Calypso,Cary 98L,VTL 5.5,Audio Reseach LS 26,Supratek Syrah.My personal favourite and an uptick from the aforementioned is my Audio Horizons tube line stage.It's within your price point and the company offers a free home trial.
I know what I like and I like what I know.