I would agree with the CJ 17LS I have the step up, the Premier 16LS and now when I go to hear speakers, I am in the upgrade mode, I have to take it with me. CJ's sound is music in a way that other preamps just do not do it for me.
Give me a tube preamp that looks and sound great
Just looking for a tube preamp that is quiet, has great extension and realism, and is aroung 2000 USD. I've got an Audio Research SP 16L now and want to take things a step above. I use an Odyssey Dual mono amp and Dynaudio Contour 1.3 MKII speakers. I've begun to investigate the Supratek Chardonnay and Dehavillard preamps. My styles of listening run the gamet with focus on rock, jazz, and folk. Thanks to all for you opinions. I do like the look of outboard tubes too.