6SN7 Tube pre amp with great sound staging capabil

Modwright LS100
Cary SLP98

2nd the Modwright LS100

Rogue 99 Magnum could work also.

I kind of like my AE-3 MkII preamp.

My recommendation is the Mystere "ca11". Recently bought one and couldn't be happier. This model incorporates a small form chassis and retails for $1795 (new). You can buy the full size model for $2295. I replaced the stock 6SN7 Chinese tubes with NOS Tung-Sol tubes from Vintage Tube Services. Next purchase will be four Telefunken tubes to keep in reserve as well as tube roll for comparison purposes. Give this equipment an audition if you have time.

http://www.upscaleaudio.com/products/Mystere-ca11-Preamplifier.html

I second the Mystere, although I own the ca21. I used to own an Aesthetix Calypso, and feel the Mystere has a wider soundstage and better deep bass. I bought the Mystere as a show demo from Upscale Audio, and it was about $2K.

 
>>I would like a pre amp that provides well-defined, palpable images with a forward presentation and micro dynamics while keeping the tube harmonics and bloom. <<

That's easy: Atma-Sphere, either the MP-3 or MP-1. Forward presentation, to me, says frequency imbalance; if you're looking for a superb soundstage with dimensional images, then yes, these are tough to top.
 

I third the Mystere CA-21, which I've owned for about a year. Wonderful preamp, great build quality, beautiful sound.