Seeking suggestions for Preamp


Current speakers/amps:

- Wilson Sophia 2's
- Pass XA 100.5 and/or Citadel 1.5 amps

Preamps auditioned:
- Audio Research REF 3
- VTL 5.5
- Esoteric C-03
- Doshi Alaap

I don't like the REF 3 - there's nothing about it that I like. The VTL was dirty sounding. The Esoteric was nice, but brand new and I only auditioned it for an hour or so, but it didn't quite have the body I was looking for.

The Doshi has it in spades and might be my answer, but I'm looking to see what else is out there.

I'm looking for something romantic and a bit bloomy, but NOT noisy and very extended (don't like anything the least bit rolled off on top).

I'm about to try the Pass XP-20 preamp even though it's solid state.

Any ideas of other pre's to pursue?
madfloyd
Joule Electra LAP 150 mk II.Wonderful pre - quiet,extended, dynamic and romantic to my ears although not bloomy really but musical.Very involving and virtually no fatigue factor.
Dodd Audio battery preamp. Great value. (owned it)
RWA Isabella (with DAC) is excellent to my ears but you might find it to textured.

Disclaimer
affiliation with RWA

Cheers
Mariusz
I own the CJ Act 2 and think it has the qualities your looking for. If you try or get to hear one make sure it's on a good isolation device so you get to hear how clear it is!