What's the best preamp for my system?

Hello,

Here's my system:

Theta Pearl Transport
Theta DS Pro Basic II DAC
Cary SLM 100 mono block amps
ProAc Studio 200 speakers.
Tara prism 33 interconnects
Nordost Super Flatline biwire cables

It has taken me 5 years and $4000 to get this far. I'm quite pleased with the sound now, but I'm ready to upgrade to a real preamp. I'm currently using a Carver C-2, it's dry and slightly more analytical than I like. My main complaint is that it has zero ability to provide a 3D spatial quality to the music. It's also a bit bright and forward, but I can live with that.

I have no bias toward SS or tube. I've heard both and believe it is possible to get where I want with either one. I've got $1200 max to spend and I would like to keep my price in the $1000 range so I can start looking for better interconnects and speaker cabels.

I've audtioned an Electrocompaniet 4.5, and an Audio Research SP12, and a Mcintosh C31V so far. The Electrocompaniet was good, but only slightly better than the Mac C31V, and not worth the $2000 the dealer was asking imho. The Audio Research was very dull sounding, almost like a dolby B or C filter had been added and my speakers were trying to drive through a wet towel. I don't think I like the Audio Research "sound". So far Mac is the clear leader in my listening research.

Other preamps I'm considering:

Spectral DMC-10 Delta
Rogue Audio 66
Quicksilver
Anthem
Sonic Frontiers
B&K

I've read about 30-50 reviews and I'm just plain confused about where to look at this point. Any guidance from those that like the clean, smooth sound of the Cary and ProAc combination would be gladly appreciated.

Thanks,

Turin