I don't think that LS-26 has unity gain. Would you like to have balanced in/outs? What amplifier you're using? You can get away with MUCH smaller investment for new as long as both components will sound best. For unity gain give it or take McCormack RLD will tax most of the ones in the price range you've mentioned(only no balanced outs). Another contender with balanced outs is Wyred4Sound STP that has very low gain.
What Solid State Pre-Amp compares to ARC LS-26
Just doing some research for a possible purchase. What solid state 2 Channel pre amp would compare in sound quality to the Audio Research LS-26 tube. I would want one with Unity Gain and remote as bare minimum. I want to stay under 6-7000 new or less is better.