I would recommend a used Emotive Audio Erato, Poeta or even Sira for the best sound and overall value in the price range. They don't come up for sale all that often but if you can wait a month or two you should be able to find one on Audiogon.
I also would respectfully disagree with the suggestion that the sound quality of older tube gear is equal to modern preamps. It is true that SOME vintage equipment and SOME vintage parts can offer unsurpassed sonic quality. I am thinking of Western Electric equipment and the like. These are exceptions though which is why they stand out.
I also would respectfully disagree with the suggestion that the sound quality of older tube gear is equal to modern preamps. It is true that SOME vintage equipment and SOME vintage parts can offer unsurpassed sonic quality. I am thinking of Western Electric equipment and the like. These are exceptions though which is why they stand out.