There is a VAC Standard preamp with some upgrades for sale now in the classifieds for about half of the amount you mention in your post that would seem to me to meet your criteria. While I have not heard this particular model (I have heard their more expensive offerings), I have found VAC to be among the handful of manufacturers who make unfailingly musical products. I can also vouch for Rogue, another manufacturer of quality tube equipment.
What is a very nice sounding tube preamp?
I'm looking for a nice tube preamp. I don't want to spend a fortune. Does anyone know of a spatial tube preamp that is not #3,000? I'd like some help. I know there's someone that knows of a special tube preamp, that very nice. Would some one make discisions? OPPO 95, Emotiva XPA-1's Mono's. Thanks! Breeze1