Is there a fined Solid state Pre Amp for under 8k?

Two to consider in your price range:

The new Classe preamp, ~$8K. Unsure of the model number, but it includes a DAC, DSP options and many other features. Sounded wonderful with a hefty Classe amp and B&W 805D speakers at a dealer recently.

McIntosh C50 is, I think, in your price range. Also includes a phono stage. I haven't heard this one, but based on other current production McIntosh preamps I have heard (and the C220 I own), I think you might like it.

I would certainly consider a Pass XP-20. It is quiet, well balanced, open and not lean sounding, in my system with Pass amps. It costs about $8K.

I'm currently using a Coda CP preamp. I replaced an ARC REF 3 with it. It does everything the REF did and more. I believe it sells for $5000.00 new it includes a very nice phono stage as well. I actually liked it better than the Pass XP 20 I was auditioning at the time. Call Coda direct and speak with Doug Dale and tell him Steve in St. Louis sent u.

I would just buy a Klyne 7LX 5.0 P if I had that kind of scratch to play with. ;)

I have been very happy with the Audiopax Model 5 - certainly worth an audition.