preamp upgrade suggestion around $2000

@zm thank you very much, this is the type of comment I am looking for.  Based on that, it seems the MZ2 can be a good balance because I have many tube gear in the system.  Both my DAC and amp are tube.  So, maybe a less tube sounding preamp is a better match.  One complaint I have is that my Luxkit is a bit noisy together with my 97dB speakers and 300B tube amp.  So, a quiet preamp is definitely a plus.

I can also share some of my experience with 6SN7, because my custom 300B use 4 x 6SN7, and I also have a 2A3 that use 6SN7.

i tried the Shuguang WE6SN7, unfortunately, it develops some popping noise at start up after 2 weeks.  The sound is ok, but nothing special.

i also tried the RCA grey bottle.  It is quite popular, but it sound flat.

then I have a pair of Tungsol with D getter, they are pretty good.  Smooth sound, and cheap.

the only 6SN7 that I can hear something different is the Sylvania three hold bad boys, and the two holes around the same time.  The different is very noticeable.  Once put in, the gain seems higher than other 6SN7, more impact and dynamic.  But then, I need to smooth out the sound somewhere.  So, tube rolling is really a rabbit hole, especially I have multiple components all using tubes.  =D 

@adg101 

I am glad you ask.  Yes, I did.  My power amp also have volume control.  Before adding the preamp in the chain, I directly connect the DAC to the amp.  Then after I bought the DAC, and also try the preamp mode of the DAC.  I confirm that, to my ear, having a preamp gives more definition to the music especially on the bass.  This is the reason I decided to spend more money to upgrade the preamp.

BTW, I am looking for $2000-$3000 for a used equipment.

Thanks for the replies.  I will check out the deHavilland.

@ozzy62 abour Cary SLP98, I got similar experience on their 300B integrated amp as well.  It sound very lush and warm as you said.  I compared it to my custom built 300B and I like the custom built better because it sounds more musical.  Then I took it to a friend’s place and try it on his JBL 4344, and compared to the Solphia Electric 300B mono block, and we both like the Cary better.  It is so lush and warm and thick that makes the Sophia sound thin in comparison.  So, yes, synergy is the key.  

I am seriously thinking about it, have been reading reviews since afternoon.  Is that the first generation?  The wiring inside seems not very tidy.

Any idea how’s the sound compared to others such as LTA MZ3 or Modwright?  From what I read, it has a different sound compared to others because it uses a larger power type 85 tube.  Most preamp use 6SN7 and 12AX7 family.  My 300b has 4 x 6SN7 already.  So, I feel it is a good idea to mix a different tube in the chain, rather than adding more 6SN7.

@jjss49 i spent the whole day research on it since I saw the ad.  I think it is a fact that it is not as popular as brands like Don Sachs, LTA and Modwright.  It has good reviews from a smaller community.  Not saying it is bad, but I am just not sure if it is better than other options on my list.  Also, another reason I didn’t jump on it is because it is an older model using a different set of tubes compared to the latest.  The seller doesn’t have original packaging.  I am concern it get damage from shipping.  All these adds up.  Sometimes buying things is like that, based on gut feel.  

I didn’t jump on the deHavilland.  Somehow, are not sure, maybe due to the tube, maybe not enough reviews ... anyway.

I come across this Doge 8 clarity preamp in my search.  Their DAC and amp receives rave reviews on the internet.  However, no one review the preamp though.  But similar to the DAC and amp, it uses all Clarity caps.  Seems a very solid unit.  Anyone has experience?
https://doge.audio/product/doge-8-clarity-2019-edition/

@smodtactical  I have been using tube preamp for a long time.  Sticking with tube will have less risk of surprise, I think.