Best preamp under 5k for Krell amp

Margaux, thanks for your response. Actually, I really like the Krell and would rather build around it. How about a speaker and preamp upgrade suggestion.

I have a Krell KSL pure class A line stage pre-amp that I know would sound fabulous. I used it with Apogees. Mine costs only $1100 ($2900 new). Seems like you want to spend more however.

I have a krell krs-2 (3-piece) unit that's currently at krell for servicing that I'm going to sell as soon as I get it back. The krs-2 works well with ksa-80b and the fpb-200. I'm currently using a KRC-2 / FPB200 with the B&W 801s and am very happy with the match.

Hi, I had the FPB 300 and think it's a good amp. Never heard it with electrostats, though. That being said, I think that you can find quite a few good preamps. Depends on your preference. Rowland Synergy is nice, as is the Levinson 38S/380 and a multitude of tube preamps. I've owned 12 preamps in the last 5 years, including many in your price range. Feel free to e-mail me privately. By the way, I don't have a Krell preamp to sell you.

i recommend a tube preamp, especially w/solid-state amp. if ya listen to cd, it will also make it much less fatigueing. personally, i really like my melos music director preamp (latest version of the ma-333). this can be had for way less than $5k, used.

re: speakers, i'd suggest trying newform research r645's or nhb645's check out the reviews on audioreview, & check out the www. i'm saving for these - i think they will be a steal at the price, even if purchased new. if not, there's a 30-day in-home trial, yure only out return-shipping if they're not for you...