I recently replaced my CAT SL2 Ultimate ($8,000) (a "dynamics" champ)with the Placette RVC ($1,000). I did not make the move for financial reasons. The Placette does not lack dynamics when paired with my CAT JL2 Amp (100Kohm input impedance and .85mvs sensitivity). IMHO, in the right set up the Placette can compete with just about any preamp out there. If you want to know if the Placette will work with your Pass Aleph 3, call the owner of Placette - Guy Hummel(?) - he will tell you the truth. Better yet, try the 30-day trial and make up your own mind if it works with your amp.
"Budget" preamp choices.
All right, so here it is: I need a new preamp, preferably $750 or under. The rest of my system is as follows: Rega Saturn - Pass Aleph 3 - AKG K1000. Soundstage, beautiful mids, and detail are my biggest things. I've been considering getting the Rega Cursa, either 2000 or the recent '3' edition, to match my new CD player, but I'm open to all kinds of suggestions. The only restriction other than price are it can't be too tall, as my top-loading CD player already has the top space in my rig. I generally prefer solid state, but if you guys think tubes will add just the right ingredient to complete my rig, recommend away!