There are many new and used preamps in $2000~3000 range.
First, some questions; what amp are using, do you want balanced or single-ended (RCA) input/output? Do you seek a warm, "tubey" sound or more neutral and transparent?
You may not need to go back 10-15 years for used. It depends on the quality of your components you are adding to. For example, Your budget could get you a nearly new Conrad Johnson...
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-conrad-johnson-et3-se-line-stage-preamplifier-2017-01-23-preamplifiers-12601-south-road-ny
or a new Atma-Sphere pre with phono stage...
http://www.atma-sphere.com/Products/#UV-1
or an amazing deal on an ARC...
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-audio-research-ls-17se-immaculate-7mos-old-2017-02-12-preampl...
IMO, a 10+ year old preamp is a good value, but realize that it will need to have some internal parts replaced due to age. So add about $300 (plus tubes) to the price of an older component.
First, some questions; what amp are using, do you want balanced or single-ended (RCA) input/output? Do you seek a warm, "tubey" sound or more neutral and transparent?
You may not need to go back 10-15 years for used. It depends on the quality of your components you are adding to. For example, Your budget could get you a nearly new Conrad Johnson...
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-conrad-johnson-et3-se-line-stage-preamplifier-2017-01-23-preamplifiers-12601-south-road-ny
or a new Atma-Sphere pre with phono stage...
http://www.atma-sphere.com/Products/#UV-1
or an amazing deal on an ARC...
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-audio-research-ls-17se-immaculate-7mos-old-2017-02-12-preampl...
IMO, a 10+ year old preamp is a good value, but realize that it will need to have some internal parts replaced due to age. So add about $300 (plus tubes) to the price of an older component.