Tube preamp with the "most" for 1k used, 2k new?

Preamp will be paired with the TAD 125 monoblocks, preferably a preamp with a smaller tube complement -- two to three tubes max.

(Not counting the rectifier.)

I think any of those pre-amps are good choices.

ARC sp16 uses 6 12AX7 tubes, three in the line stage and 3 in the phono.

My TAD 125s and my ARC SP16 are in different systems. Would like to try them together someday with the Dynaudio monitors and OHM 100s in particular.

The ARC replaced a Carver C6 pre-amplifier and was a major step up in my main rig. The Carver is currently running the TADs and this combo is quite good in my second rig running Triangle monitors + M&K sub and Stax headphones.

Strongly leaning in the direction of Modwright and DeHavilland.

You have a pretty detailed amp and very resolving speakers (Merlins?) I believe also.

Unless ultimate detail and resolution is your thing, ARC may not be the way to go in your case.

I think you are on a good track. I would love tohear the resulting system no matter which way you go with the pre.

Not sure if you do phono or not, but be sure to take that into account in that some pre-amps have this built in and some not and typically it will add cost.