You really should consider a tube pre amp.
Preamp Advice for my System
I am considering changing the preamp in my system. I have a BAT-42KSE and have started to look for something different. How would you compare a Pass X1, Bryston BP-26, or Classe CP-800 to the BAT? How are those 3 different from each other. The BAT sounds a little laid back to my ears.