Best SS preamp $1000

Klyne SK5A. KILLER PHONO and made like any $10,000 today.

Speaking of NAD.
I owned a NAD1700 tuner preamp.
MM and MC switchable inputs.
20hz rumble filter...backpanel switchable.
triple turnover bass and treble. 60/120/250 bass:: 3k/6k/12k treble turnover.
2 tape monitor loops.
Hi and low level variable outputs....seems that in a modern system you could run outputs to an amp AND to a sub.
Pretty good FM tuner with an acceptable AM section, as well.

I'm sure I'm forgetting some other features.....but at 800$ retail in about '86, you could do worse. cost today? probably not much. I gave mine away with a fully functional remote...good for many NAD system components.

For maybe 100$, you could test it and probably not lose any money. The phono input alone makes it worth while to those who love there vinyl.

Another vote for the Bel Canto Pre3. Been using mine for a couple of years. It is the best pre I have used.
I say this even though my Pre3 is sitting unused as I am listening through an integrated amp currently. Still not quite ready to sell it.

Audiolab 8000Q, original British made.

Van Alstine SL