Preamp advice

@kunalraiker 

The LS27 would be a fantastic ARC option.  I had one for a while and moved to the REF 3 and it was not a huge leap.  The 27 is a great value and easy to maintain with fewer tubes.  I didn't have one, but a 17SE may be another option for less $$.  

There are 2 on USAM now:

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650310457-audio-research-ls17se-preamp-ex-cond-w-possible-extras/

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650182684-fabulous-audio-research-ls17se-with-new-6h6p-amp-original-6h30-tubes/

Good luck!

Thanks @dhite71 , The LS27 got sold and now there is LS28SE and a Ref 3 for almost twice what ls27 was.

Iam in Australia,  so US sales cannot do for me.

Wondering whether I should just wait as the preamp needs to be a significant upgrade to the EC 4.7 from Electrocompaniet.

Wondering whether there are cheaper leap upgrades fron accuphase, luxman and McIntosh.

@kunalraiker 

Ah, bummer.....I wasn't sure of the dynamics of purchasing from a US seller.

In the US, a REF 6 is usually between the LS 28 and LS 28SE in price.  I haven't heard the LS 28/28SE but if you were going to stretch all the way to approximately $6000USD then I would go for the REF 6.

Below that, the LS27 really stood out for me.  I had it paired with a PH8 phono which was also fantastic. 

@dhite71 

The ls28se is available  for $8500 aud used  and in mint condition, that a deal ?

@kunalraiker 

I don't have a blue book subscription but simply going off the ads showing recently sold on hifishark in the US and from what I have seen them listed for.....I would say that is a very good deal and fair price.  This is quite likely a preamp that would work for many years for you.  It is much higher than your $1500 you shared earlier so make sure you aren't going to have major remorse and freak out tomorrow!!  : )