If you want a preamp with optical input, then the preamp must also have a DAC. That narrows the field considerably and ups the price somewhat.
Requesting advice on preamp to buy
I need to replace a McIntosh C26 preamp. Since the application is ONLY for music played from a fairly good sound card in a workstation computer the replacement does NOT need to be an esoteric high cost elaborate item. In fact, I am getting along semi well now without the preamp at all. I am doing this by sending the computer signal to a Behringer DEQ2496, then to a Behringer DCX2496 then to McIntosh amps. What I would like to have is a solid state, used is ok, preamp that has, ideally, RCA, XLR and optical inputs, volume, tone controls and balance and a selector with perhaps 4 inputs. Is there anything out there that rings a bell with anyone that would fill this need? I KNOW that this is a "high end" oriented site, but my application is not that particular. I am not lucky enough to have great hearing in upper ranges. I hope to get some suggestions or even items available. Len in Colorado