If you want passive the Placette is the way to go. However for a simple (no remote) pre amp with high quality sound look at the EAR 834L - its a tube preamp w/out phono - it uses three tubes and the tubes last a long time. Harry Pearson of TAS gave it high marks. I've used one for about 3 years - no problems. Tonally it sounds much like my ARC SP10. I've seen them sell used for 600 to 750 on Agon.
What's the best preamp for under 1000
I would like to buy a top quality used preamp for $1000 or less. Should I be looking for tube or ss, and what models for best price? I want to be able to build the rest of my system around this piece, so I want it to be as musical as possible. Any specific recommendations? Thanks for your interest.