Can any preamps for $2-3k touch Auregies-L?

Bite the bullet and get the Shindo. It might take some additional time to save up for one but you will most likely be happier in the long run. I had to sacrifice a few things to trade up to buy the Vosne-Romanee preamp but I'm thrilled with the purchase and consider the Shindo the centerpiece of my system. Shindo just gives me a deeper emotional connection to the music. Throw in the incredible build quality and top tier resale value and it's pretty much a no-brainer given you enjoy the vintage Shindo tube sound.

I heard a VRE-1b (Steve McCormack) pre in a guys system, it beat out a $90,000 Kondo pre!

I don't think I'll buy one new as I just sold mine last month and don't want to take the hit. I could rationalize spending 600 more and buying one with phono and selling my jasmine. Actually, I'd rather like that solution if one comes available.

Liz, I wish it were an option but I had my sights on a $3k "shindo killer" which was not. Unfortunately it's a bit expensive for me to keep stuff on hand and I generally rely on those funds to upgrade.

I sold an auregies l but wouldn't mind trying the two box if the situation presents itself.

An alternative for the kind of sound you are looking for would be the Joule LA-150MKII- not saying it is better than the Shindo, since I am not familiar with the Shindo, but it is certainly a very fine preamp in the rich tone/emotion school.

Come on , it's make lemonade time. Borrow the difference from your retirement and grab the next Monbrisson that comes up for sale!