Used Pre under $8K with lowest nosie floor(?)

russellrcncom Does that rule out all tube pre's?

Absolutely not!

My BAT is quiet as a tomb. I'd also look at an ARC Ref 5SE or, if you can find one in your range, a Ref 6.

If you buy used, you can get an Ayre KX-R (non twenty).
I just got one and even though it is only a few hours running, I can say it is unbelievably quiet.
For tubes, an Atma-Sphere MP-1 or 3 used should come in around $8K.
In fact, I will probably get an MP-1, myself.
Bob

My Ayre k1xe is quiet.....even with the volume up on phono, ear to the speaker.....nuttin.