great suggestions here ... just for completeness, Klaus Bunge's group Odyssey Audio has the Candela preamp that fits the budget ... 20 year warranty:
https://odysseyaudio.com/candela-vacuum-tube-line-preamplifier/
Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?
As the title says, I am pondering my best options for purchasing a tube based preamp for $2k or under. Must have a remote!
Your opinions, thoughts, and expertise would be greatly appreciated. If I was spending more, I would know most of the best choices, but I'm on unfamiliar ground at this price limit. But sometimes, you can only do what you can do.
Thanks for any help.