Is no preamp really better that a good preamp?

Thanks for asking, George. I have the PS Audio DirectStream DAC and their Memory Transport CD unit. I also have their Phono converter phono section. I really appreciate the help; I'm not really close to any place where it's easy to audition stuff, so all the advance advice I get is greatly appreciated.

I also use a Spectron Musician ii high current power amp to drive Martin Logan Spires.

Many thanks, Al.

This is getting beyond me, but I appreciate all the input. To summarize: I power Martin Logan Spires with a Spectron Musician III Mk 2. I also use PS Audio DirectStream and their Phono section. I would actually love suggestions as to what preamp under $5K would be a strong match. I listen to all kinds of music, and I love clarity, especially in the mid and upper ranges, more than all other acoustic qualities.

I should mention that I loved my Cary sli-80 integrated amp, so I wonder if a Cary Slp-03 or Slp-98L would be good choices for me. I'm coming off several surgeries and don't live close to any dealers with top rate gear, so getting out for many auditions is tough for me.

Many thanks to all of you, especially Almarg, Georgelofi, Jcharvet, Knighifi, and Plinko. Really useful input. Andrew9405: I did contact the manufacturers, but they are loathe to recommend any other components. You seem more interested in criticizing other postings than in offering useful input. What gives?

I guess my final question, then, is what kinds of specs should I look for in a preamp if I want to add one at some point?

But you haven't offered a single helpful comment to my questions or to any of the other responses! What kind of "opinion" offering is that?

this has all been very enlightening for me. Many thanks to all. I think I've decided to get one and see what it does for (or to) my sound. I'm thinking of a Aesthetic Calypso or a Jeff Rowland Capri 2. Any ideas regarding these two units?