If you are persuaded to look at the used market then check also for Audiolab pre-amps ... they sound great, they're versatile, and they last forever. And for some reason they're cheap used on this side of the Atlantic.
cambridge or nad preamp
I've narrow my choice between the Cambridge 500 or the Nad 160 preamps. My other equipment are the Odyseey Stratos amp and Monitor Audio Silver 5i for my mains. All opinions are needed. This will be my first preamp.I plan to start between the $300 to $500 price range then progress upwards. Thanks to all who replys.