HELP!!! I need a “GOOD-CHEAP” preamp solution???


I would appreciate the community’s thoughts about replacing my NAD C356 BEE integrated amp (it’s being used as my preamp) in my modest but nice sounding 2 channel audio system. Why replace the NAD? The remote no longer talks to the amp, I’ve already replaced the large pc board ($275) and it’s running hot with a dark brown spot on the blue pc board. Scary. 

Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.

The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs. 

Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???

Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
keeferdog
Schiit, Audio has a nice little preamp that is both vacuum tube
or solid state you choose which one sounds better with remote 
for around $800 and beat many preamps 2x the cost if on a budgeta solid choice and you can upgrade the vacuum tubes to 
much bettter quality for even better results ,upgrade the fuse,
and a respectable power cord as with. Any preamp a must .
In the meantime, its a no brainer to buy yourself a Schitt SYS for $49.  It has inputs for two units, you can run your CD player and another source, so you can have music while you take your time and look for your preferred preamp.  You will not regret having it.
Take a look at Don Sachs pre.  Or better yet, call him.  I've been through a bit of equipment in my time and when I plugged his "all in" custom preamp into my system I knew I had made the right choice.  
If you are just getting a line stage, get one that uses 6SN7s. The worst of the 6SN7s are about where the best of miniature tubes are sound-wise and it just gets better from there.