Looking for a tube Preamp new or used for under $2000...


Hi all,

I am looking for a tube preamp for my Parasound A21 amp. I currently have a Parasound p6 preamp, but have been told that a “Tube” preamp not a SS preamp would make a huge improvement. My budget is $2k however, I would prefer to spend less! I am looking at McIntosh and audio research preamps. I am willing to purchase an older preamp, but not one that I would need to send it into be serviced. Any suggestions? Thanks!
matt00
I would not go for a tube preamp with a parasound amp i have owned a parsound amp for twenty years and even my audio research pre amp will not work with it the impedance mismatch is too great to overcome. Find yourself a better solid state pre amp even a good vintage one will vastly out perform a new parasound preamplifier. I have owned two parasound preamps and switched to other companies offerings because of better sound reasons.
@speakermaster, thanks for the advise.  How do I learn about impedance matching between preamplifier and amp?  I thought of impedance regarding speakers (4, 6 or 8 ohms) but not between electronic gear. 
I just got a gently used Audio Research SP17 and am very happy with it.  I mostly listen to vinyl then reel-to-reel.  Much greater texture and resolution than a Parasound Halo 2.1 Integrated Amp.  Using the AR SP17 with a Rogue Atlas Magnum III amp.  The switch from SS to tube might have something to do with it.
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