The Krell(s) tend to be more analytical with great bottom end extension. I would look for a pre amp with more warmth. At your price point you pretty much can choose anything you want, so I wouldn't be too hasty about a choice but would try several tube units before making an important decision for your system.
An exception to this would be to try a comparable Krell pre amp just to see what synergies may exist given that the Krell designers probably used their own products for final testing before releasing the amp to the public.
An exception to this would be to try a comparable Krell pre amp just to see what synergies may exist given that the Krell designers probably used their own products for final testing before releasing the amp to the public.