SS Preamp (HT bypass) sub $5k

I owned a Bryston BP6 that excelled in transparency/detail without harshness (think straight wire with gain) and threw a very open and deep 3D soundstage, which is one of the main reasons why I bought it.  This BP26 should be even better and has balanced connections, and at $2450 is half your $5k budget and is still under warranty (not that you’ll ever likely need it with Bryston).  Best of luck. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650264242-bryston-bp-26-with-mps-2-power-supply/

I know you say tubes aren't an option, but you should give a call to Backert Labs. Although their preamps have 2 tubes., they don't seem too worried about ventilation. And they make a great preamp with multiple outs (for your sub) and HT passthru.

Thanks peter, this looks promising!  

Audionet Pre1 G3 is their entry level into magical sound!  SS at it's best.  Used for way under 5k.  Sub out.  Not exactly HT bypass, but on your way to true high end sound.   https://en.audionet.de/machines/pre-i-g3/#imageclose-590

My issue is the soundstage is a bit forward. It’s not a deal breaker by any means, but I’m curious to try something else in a similar class to see how my system responds. I realize this is just unnecessary itch scratching. 

To be clear, the Atoll has a forward presentation (maybe this isn’t the right term), not bright or difficult in any way, just forward which is interesting and very engaging.  I find Spendor speakers to have a similar inclination, so I think I may have doubled down on a good thing in this system.  Or maybe I’m just not used to hearing a preamp of this level (I’m definitely not).  I think I’ll hook up my old KEFs to see how they sound with this preamp.  

I have Spendor 4/5s in another room and they also present in a similar way (which I love!), but the effect is less forward on that more mellow integrated setup.  But of course that's a different room.

Ya, the Rogue RP-7 doesn't get too hot for close quarters either.