Upgrade Preamp from MyTek Manhattan II?

In your particular case I think you'd want to go with color and juicyness as opposed to trying to get just technically more accurate.

I'd prefer Luxman for solid state pre, and a CJ for tube.

To me, neutral ness is the best quality for a preamp (control center.)

But everyone is different. Often markedly so.

Unless you need more features you'd better be clear about what SQ is best for you. Hoping for "better" sound will probably not get you to the promised land.

@erik_squires 

Thanks for the response.  I think the current Luxman preamp line (even in used condition) is roughly the same price as most of the Pass Labs preamps I have my eye on.  The goal would be to have an interim purchase, perhaps $5K or less, that would be an "improvement" over the MyTek - this is assuming that I can "improve" on the MyTek for that much, which is really the question.

@fuzztone

Thanks for the response.

In this context, the question is: can I find an interim preamp for $5K or less that would in some aspect outperform the MyTek?

In that regard, I would take suggestions for something that is "more neutral", but I would also consider other preamp suggestions that might "have a sound", as well, if the overall sonic benefits are positive to me above and beyond the MyTek.

If I can’t "do better" for $5K or less, then I will just hold out to get a Pass Labs preamp to go with my existing XA160.8 monoblocks.

@theph0xx21 find a used Pass XP12. I compared it with running my Bricasti M3 DAC directly into an amp. While the M3 sounded great snd has a decent built in preamp, the XP12 was better. 

Yes, price-wise Luxman and Pass pres are in overlapping price points but I think a lot of listeners will develop a strong preference for one or the other. :)

Holo Serene seems to get good marks and fits your budget. It is on my list as a possible upgrade to my preamp.