need new seperates on a budget

As I stated I am still looking for a pre. I find the Atlantic tech with optical input to be a bit bright so have to turn the treble down a notch. On the other hand using the Marantz has a bit too warm sound. Any suggestions for a compromise?

Thanks all for the responses.
I am thinking of seperates because I don't like having to replace an expensive receiver and would be able to cut the cost in half by having seperates. I would also like to be able to upgrade the pre/pro portion seperatly in the future.
Which of the amplifiers I have listed would be better than the others or something else in the $1000 used range.
I am intrigued by the Emotiva brand but afraid of the class D amps.
I can't use an older pre/pro because I have only HDMI inputs.
I am thinking of a inexpensive receiver as a pre/pro as a stop gap measure used as a pre only.

Well such a bunch of good ideas. I have purchased a Atlantic Technology A-2000 and it came with a A.T P-2000 processor. The set is virtually like new with the clear tape still on the remote. The processor works quite well using the optical inputs. Extremly crisp, fast and clear.
The amp is rated at 120 per but performs like a much stronger amp. The pre is a clone of the Sherbourn PT-7000 and the outlaw 950 but better built. I got all the original paperwork, instructions, etc. SO all is good for now until I find a better processor. I paid $550 for the set including new innterconnects.
Thanks all for the input. I also had my Marantz sr6001 repaired and have a backup pre now.