Help in deciding which tube preamp to replace my old SFL-2

As much as I like and respect Mac gear, I found that it did not play very well with others. I would have to go totally Mac, and I don't want to go that route. That's why I have selected the preamps that I listed. I do appreciate the suggestion though..

I couldn’t possibly have asked for more sage advice

than that jjss49. Thank you, it helps put things

in perspective for me.

Thank you. Thank you for the recommendation of the AR Ref 5SE, I have heard and read many great things about it. If found, I might even jump up to the Ref Anniversary Edition. Yes, ultimately I may go the one manufacturer route. All AR, all CJ, or all Asthetix would be possible. I couldn't agree more regarding cables. Ten or so years ago I demo's many different cables. I let my wife be the judge as I had not told her what any of them cost. I was amazed by her comments such as what did you do, the sound is dull, or what did you do, I've never heard those details in that song before. I knew the prices and felt that I may be swayed in my decision. 

Thank you. Yes the "Don't Fix What Isn't Broken" theory is why I've not upgraded sooner. The SFL-2 is a wonderful dual chassis preamp from back in 1995. Friends and family think my system sounds phenomenal, but that is not deterring me from trying something else more modern. I would not get rid of the SFL-2. I would use it as the benchmark to compare with.

I have a CD player connected for when my wife wants to play CD's, and I have a headphone amp connected as well.

Thanks but staying with tubes, thus the ML526 is out.

I would love a good VAC but about the older VC Standard Pre, nothing much ever comes up for sale. For a good reason no doubt. The Backert Labs was one I was wondering about and looks very interesting. Does anyone have experience with their Rhythm pre?

Has anyone listened to or owned a Concert Fidelity pre? I've read that they are compared closely to Shindo.

Thank you sbank for the recommendations regarding Backert Labs. The Rythmn is now on my short list. I will call and talk with either Andy or Bob.

cwory, I had been wondering about the Zesto gear. I will research them as well.

My plan is to make a final decision over the weekend and purchase the new preamp early next week.

I'm desiring a more dynamic and expansive soundstage. With that, I have decided on an Aesthetix Callisto Eclipse. Negotiations are done, I'm just waiting on the final shipping cost so that I can send the funds. I already have an Aesthetix Rhea Signature phono pre. The Callisto allows me to stay with balanced interconnects and uses tubes which I have in my collection of vintage NOS pieces. Luckily I have the space available for this new beast. It has three chassis, two of which weighing in at 50 pounds each. 

Thank you.

Yes, 2040 or bust...

I'm anxious to start rolling tubes.

The main unit uses a total of four 6922's, two 12AX7s', and two 6SN7's.

The power supply uses a total of six 12AX7's, and two EL34's.

My dedicated music room is quite large but I'm sure this will add considerably more heat. My home has a dedicated HVAC zone for that room.

The EVO 400's with eight KT88's and six 12AU7's in each do a great job of that already.