David - there is a VAC Ren Signature on the A-Gon listing right now that would be perfect with your PASS and fit your budget easily as well. Do NOT hesitate as this is a great pre at at great price (no affiliation, just a very happy VAC owner)
Seeking Suggestions on Preamp Upgrade (CJ, Aesthetix, EAR)
I have about $5,000 budget to upgrade a preamp. I am using Luxman 550 integrated as a preamp currently, it sounds a bit too lean to me. Rest of the system are Pass XA30.5, Dynaudio Contour 3.4, Marantz reference SACD. I am thinking CJ CT5/ET5, CJ ACT2, Aesthetix Calypiso, EAR 868, or Zesto Leto. Thank you very much!