Best Full-Function Preamplifier

May I suggest the new Accuphase C-2300 preamp? It is fully balanced input to output, has a tape monitor/processor loop, four band tone controls and a loudness control that switches in/out, has different levels of gain, and can be had with an AD-60 mc/mm phono board for a list price of approximately US $16.5K?

You can read about the C-2300 here.

The US importer, Axiss Audio, has had a recent infusion of talent and capital. Axiss have lowered US prices, making them much more competitive with the rest of the world. 

@dodgealum 

Re: Accuphase C-2300. It has a full function remote control. 

@ap1 

A quick scan of this Audiogon Forum reveals over 45 threads about 'Accuphase voltage conversion' - necessary if you import  a used piece from Japan into NA or Europe. Otherwise one can monkey around with transformers, @dodgealum does not strike me as someone who wants to spend time chasing equipment and mods to perhaps save a dollar. You maybe projecting.

The new distributor has service in CA and TN for gear they sell only.

As far as the fully balanced C-2300 goes it is better than the two preamps it replaces according to Accuphase, borne out by my listening and lab tests. The AD-60 is based on the C-47. Relevant is the use of FETs for MM and bipolar for MCs. The knock on some of the other big box names mentioned is that their included phono stages are basically from an A/V receiver.

The company has been successful for 50 years and has a succession plan. Its latest lead designer comes from Yamaha semiconductor.