Tube Preamps?

You can probably get a Rogue
for a good price. Cary SLP98 is a pretty nice preamp. You haven't stated how much you want top spend?

My opinion on Audio Research is similar to hifigeek1's comment. AR is all over the place with their preamps. Some of them sound great while others don't. They aren't consistent from model to model. I'm not saying to avoid them, but I would never consider buying one blind. Highly recommend you demo first.

I second the Audible Illusions 3A recommendation or the Audible Illusions L-1 if you have an outboard phono preamp. Even though both preamps share the same linestage, I prefer the master gain control with one volume on the AI L-1 rather than two volume controls on the AL 3A. You can expect very good dynamics and transparency with both not to mention top notch sound quality.

The other tube preamp I like after trying many is the VTL 2.5. Try and find one with a tube phono circuit installed.

If you want the classic/warm tube sound, a Conrad Johnson PV-5 or and ARC SP3 would be great. Both ARC and CJ will still support/update these products with their top-flite service.

A friend of mine used a VTL 2.5 with 2C's (he recently moved on to the 3A sigs but kept the VTL in the system).

I would also recommend looking into Quicksilver's line of products. You can usually find their linestages for well under $1000, and I've seen several of their full function preamps go for right around $1000. You could also consider a modified Dynaco PAS-3 from tubes4hifi (VTA).

Exocet,

The AI3 has been on my short list for years...

Lee