Need SS preamp that sounds like tube .


I love the tube sound, but I don't necessarily want the tubes. I currently run a CJ PV12. Does anyone have any ideas? My main problem is that auditioning is limited in my area. I am pretty confident that the SS CJ stuff will sound tube-like. But I don't even think there is a dealer in my area. Some needed information: run a Bryston 4B-ST for power, Meridian 508.24 for CD, some PMC FB-1 monitors for speakers, silver Audioquest cable all around. I would like to keep the damage under 5K. As for auditions in my area, I can probably find Bryston, Audio Research, Aragon, Meridian. Oh, I'm sure these stores are authorized dealers for a lot of stuff, but they don't carry some of the pricy brands in stock or as demo. Help would be appreciated.
argent
Hi Argent, never heard a SS pre that sounded like tubes. IMO if you want the sound of tubes then ya gotta use tubes. Most tube pre-amps today are very reliable. Trying to emulate tubes with SS could be frustating because SS is SS and tubes are tubes. Kind of like a man trying to look like a woman. Ya get a bit closer and somethin aint right.
Thanks, everyone, for all the input. I do agree that to get tube sound you have to have tubes, but I was just curious if any SS came close. Anyone own the CJ Premier 17LS (back to tube again). I read the review in Stereophile. Curious what a realistic price on this piece is (Stereophile quotes list).
I have a Klyne 7LX3.5 preamp that is wonderfull...I feel
one of the best SS preamps out there.
try plinius SA series, you can get the SA100 MKIII below 5K brand new or SA250 MKIV for $5K used
If you like tube sound, you should stick to a "REAL" tube preamp. There are absolutely no substitute!!!!!