the Quad 99 pre amp is in the same price range as the items you list. You could also pick up a Quad 909 power amp and have a matched set that would be a big step up from the Adcom...
Tone controls? Sorry about the heresy.
I need tone controls! Too much of the music I listen to needs it. A lot of 70's, 80's, 90's, 00's rock. Some acoustic music. Who makes excellent preamps with tone controls OR what other box can I use that won't degrade the sound too much? Currently use a PS Audio 4.5, Adcom GFA-555II, JPW speakers.