Need preamp recommendation

What inputs does your PC2002M have? All that I have seen only have balanced and 1/4" inputs. You could replace the 1/4" jacks with RCA inputs if you found a preamp you really want for a good deal, but if you don't want to make a switch like that, you'll probably have to concentrate on preamps with balanced outputs.

To my knowledge, the Rogue, Anthem, and Emotiva models that you mentioned do not have a set of balanced outputs. You can usually find an Audio Research LS-2 in your price range. I like mine, but it's not really a tube preamp. There's a single 6DJ8, but it's not a preamp that I would describe as having that "tubey" midrange bloom.

Hi Teeshot- Bass playing is going well, thanks! :) That Modwright looks super-sweet but it's unfortunately out of my price range. I'd probably need to find a used one...

Hey Jazzerdave, just now seeing your posts. You are correct; the PC2002M has both unbalanced 1/4" inputs as well as balanced XLR inputs. Is it imperative I utilize the balanced in's? Could I just use RCA->1/4" cables and use the unbalanced in's, instead? Would I sacrificing significant performance or sound quality? I did notice that none of the pre's I mentioned had balanced outs, but just assumed I'd connect in the aforementioned manner. That LS-2 looks really nice, as well. I've never seen those before...

Thanks for the input so far, guys-

If you end up with a preamp with balanced outs, then that's what you should use. If not, RCA to 1/4" cables would work, but make sure it's the actual cable - don't just use RCA to 1/4" adapters.

Here's a few more preamp suggestions:
- Sonic Frontiers SFL-1 (there always seems to be one for sale here or one eBay). If you look around, you should be able to find one for a good deal less than $1000, and they're popular with the modding community if you want to upgrade without paying for a whole new preamp.
- Rogue Audio R99 Magnum (one is on eBay right now for $899) It's a great preamp, especially at that price. I'd probably pick it up myself if I weren't in a clamp-down mode budget-wise.
- Quicksilver Audio (any model) There are actually a couple of the full function models for $1000 here and on eBay, and you can usually find one of the line stages for $7-900. Good tube preamps.

Thanks, jazzerdave. Are you by any chance familiar with the Parasound P3? It has balanced outs and was recommended by a somewhat local high-end dealer. It's not tube, but I hear they sound good. Around $850 new. I'm not sure how it would stack up to that Rogue on eBay though.

I would probably snap up the Rogue, but I also haven't heard and Parasound products. I just haven't had the opportunity. From what I've read about them, Parasound seems to be a solid company.