PreAmp shortlist:ARC LS8MKII, BC BC21, Rogue 99?

You'll never regret the Rogue 99

Take a look at the VTL TL2.5, new linestage, with remote for $1,500. You can find a used one for $750-$950 depending on age and whether or not it has the MM/MC phono stage. Throw some Mullard or Telefunken AT7/AU7 tubes in it and save $500. I was browsing Upscale Audio's site for some NOS 12AX7 tubes for my phono stage, and noticed that Kevin has a used linestage unit for $749.

FWIW, my ProAc 1.5s love the VTL power amp...

Here's a 2nd vote for the VTL 2.5TL. Try to make sure you get the "v.2" version--only way to tell is to call VTL with the SN of the unit you are buying.

regarding noise floor on the BAT VK3i...that not charicteric of bat preamps in general.

Regarding noise floor.... was it background hiss with your ear up to the speaker and no music playing? If so, this is very typical of many tube preamps but usually not noticable while playing music.