Another tube preamp "What should I buy" question.

Another whole hearted recommendation for Aric Audio and the Motherlode. If you are looking for a piece of gear that you hope to enjoy for 20 years and beyond, then a 4-6 month wait is a small period of time, relatively speaking. Your patience will be rewarded. I have owned Mac, Luxman, Pass Labs, and have auditioned many others, including the Don Sachs and Leben. My Motherlode is the longest I have ever owned a preamp for, and I expect its tenure to be long and exceptional. Aric's customer service and support is also a big reason for my endorsement.

Depending on budget, have a look at the VTL TL series of preamps. I have a TL-5.5 series 2 which has been in my system for about 8 years and have never regretted buying it ever. They drive a pair of Krell FPB 350Mcx amps which are connected in turn to a pair of Magicos S1. To me the system sounds amazing with all the definition, transparency, dynamics we all look for.

I used to have a Conrad Johnson Premier 17LS and an Aesthetix Calypso. They were good. The CJ was a little outdated and it did not have balanced inputs. The Aesthetix has a lot of features, but somehow the VTL sound appealed more to me.

Hope this helps but it unfortunately adds to your confusion!!!

Balanced Audio Technology Rex I, II, or 3 depending on budget.  Rex I and II can be found used.  

I recommend asking AI to compare all those that you'd consider.  Then try to listen to them.

Modwright LS99. This is the preamp I have and love it.

What about Airtight? Or even one of Scott Frankland’s soon to be released Magnus series units.