You have an $18K amp paired with a $2K preamp. While I've not owned either product, I would bet there's a good likelihood that the entry level preamp is holding back your high end amp. I'd only be looking to change out the preamp, unless the amp is not a good fit for your speakers.
Amp vs Preamp which is more important?
I am considering changing my amp/preamp combination and as I think about budget, I am wondering if one of these components should get more focus. My other question is if these components, even separates can never be considered in isolation but are always part of a pair working together.
I thought there must be a thread on this, but I couldn't find it. Feel free to respond with it here and I will shut this thread down.
Thanks!