I used a McIntosh C42 when I had my MC252. SS with MM phono pre. Nice match.
Preamp for McIntosh MC252
My friend asked me to inquire on the forum for good preamp to match to his MC252 driving B$W 802 Nautilus. After all the expenses his buget can't stretch past $2k and preferably $1.5k. , SS or tubes. Phono pre option would be nice but not critical as he can upgrade later. Rgrds, L