If you can pull it off, get the Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL 2.0 preamp with the linear PSU option. It will be little more than your $1k budget but it is as good as any $20k preamp out there. I have just replaced my $18k Audio Note preamp with this amazing MicroZOTL 2.0 and I love it to the core. It will be a great match.
Preamp help for First Watt J2/ZU Omens combo
Hi, I'm an all analog guy. Just a turntable with a phono pre. I bought a First Watt J2 a couple of months ago and can't seem to find the right preamp. My speakers are high efficiency ZU Audio Omen Mk2's. I tried a luminous audio axiom passive and while the midrange would blow you away not much else was there. I also tried a Schiit Freya which comes with a passive and tube side....passive side real weak and the tube side is like drinking from a fire hydrant. It's detailed but really in your face and forward. Very fatiguing. The people with Pass/First Watt all say a PASS preamp will do the trick like an older X-1 or the like but those are expensive still and kinda out of my budget right now. Plus, buying used there is not much of a return policy if it doesn't work out. Trying to keep it $1000 or less. But, it needs to sound right too so If I need to jump up I could. Any help would be greatly appreciated!