So damn hard deciding which tube preamp to buy!

I contradict.
If voltage amplification is the job, there is nothing better that tubes.
That is why a good tube preamp has more dynamics in the midrange that offers more realistic sound. The ping-ping highs of a transistorized pre may distract from this focus- but that range is where it's all about!
In the end theoretical advantages are not helpful.

Jan

The military still use vacuum tubes, they use satellites that are amplified by vacuum tubes.

roxy54

I know, I saw OP’s budget, I contend the mx110z can equal whatever he comes across, leaving a fat wad for content!

Actually, I suspect this is just fishing without bait.

The "BEST" pre-amp is the one that sounds the best TO YOU in your system IN YOUR ROOM, period.

If you have a good dealer, he or she will loan you as many as you like until you make a decision.

Personally, it is my belief that the company most praised for its pre-amps over the last 40 years or so is Audio Research Corporation.  You might want to try a few of theirs to see if one of them works for YOU.

If not, there are some others that also have good reputations.  In the end, the one that most pleases YOU IN YOUR ROOM is the one to buy.

Do not settle for anything less, please.

Cheers!

Sounds "trollish" to me............