You can buy an older Counterpoint preamp like a SA-2000. They go for cheap on the used market. If you like what it does, the upgrades can take it to an entire level for much less that anything mentioned about. 6922/6DJ8 tubes are east to test and make a difference. Upgrades include volume control, nichicon caps, Vishay caps, tube regulation/rectification, a few resistors and filter choke. Hard to beat in the $5K area once the upgrades are completed and for a lot less.
Happy Listening.
Happy Listening.