Hello, If you do get one it looks like your choices will be the Ref 5 SE and the LS28SE. These are amazing preamps. The Ref 5SE and the LS28SE are very close in output. Maybe even the same. The LS28 SE runs cooler due to not having the 6550 tube. Tomic and I both have the Ref 5 SE and have upgraded the 6550. I went with NOS Winged C since I could not locate the Tungsol I wanted at the time. This is the only tube you can roll. If you want that neutral sound for ever then get the LS28 SE. make sure it is a SE. upgrades take a long time and cost $$$. I have a fringed who has the LS28SE and loves it. Plus it runs cool enough to be on a covered shelf. I would not recommend this for the Ref5SE due to the 6550 tube. I believe the LS28SE is just a bit quieter than the REF5SE. It all comes down to the slightly warmer tube sound. I wanted the REF5SE for that reason. FYI the NOS tube is about $300. So $5700 would be your real budget because this makes a huge difference
Audio Research Pre-Amp advice
Hi, what would be a good used Audio Research pre-amp that has a remote, that is overall very musical. My budget is under 6K? I really don't want any Ref. pre's because too many tubes. Also something not too old, I do not want to have to bring in for service. I welcome and appreciate any advice. Thank you!