What Solid State PreAmp?

Right in the middle of your price range is Steve McCormack's new VRE-1 pre-amp. The reviews have been positive and he offers a 30 day trial. After I sell some equipment later this year I plan on a demo myself.

My preferences in order are as follows:
Ayre K1XE
T+A P1230r
Accuphase c2000
BAT 42SE
Naim 281,202,102
MCIntosh C200
Mark Levinson 326
CJ PFR
Classe CP 700
I have not heard the MBL or the Accuphase C2410. Although the Ayre and T+A sound somewhat different I like both equally as the best solid state preamps I have heard.

Audiofan12, please tell me about T+A. I heard their CDP and was very impressed. Other than the unfortunate name, that's about all I know about them. Who destributes in the USA?

Dave

I second Pcoombs recommendation of the Klyne pre amp; I have a 6LX3P; excellant build quality,high wife acceptance factor and mates well with my tube amps (cary slam100 and Manley ref 440/200 monos); results are excellant.

Hello Mike,
I have been through dozens of preamps over the past 40 years.
It was the most frustrating part of upgrading my system.
I believe that the rest of my system, given room limitations, is the best, in my opinion, that money can buy.
I finally found a preamp where I have no longer a desire to upgrade.
It's called the SMc VRE-1, a design from the inventor/master of tweaks and upgrading other manufacturers' designs, Steve McCormack. He founded The Mod Squad in the 70's. Three + years went into the design of this marvel. It is sold at $7,500., factory direct.
My guess is that it would sell for 15-20,000 through dealers.
Check out the review from Positive Feedback. I, too, wrote a review, my first in 40 years, so worthy is this preamp of "getting the word out" for serious music lovers/audiophiles.
You will be stunned by its performance. I can detect no flaws. A first! Steve is a friendly, approachable engineer.
Give him a call or send me an E-mail for more about this breakthrough product.