Looking for an amazing preamp under $700 used


This is probably a wish list for the ultimate preamp, but here goes.

1) SS preamp or hybrid (with 1 tube) max
2) Warmer, smoother sound that doesn't squash the details.
3) Having a processor loop or unity gain for tying in to HT system (great plus, but not essential)
4) Musical, with air and timbral integrity
5) Remote would be nice (but not essential)
6) Under $700 for a quality used piece.

So far I'm considering the Audiolab 8000, Mccormack TLC-1, Audio Research SL3, Forte 44, audio refinement (3.5?).

Can anyone help me narrow the list or add units I haven't considered?

Thanks,
Larry
larryb
In a solid state preamp, to do what you're asking?...I'd have to agree with "Sogood" in that a passive unit is best soincally. You'll give up ultimate dynamics, but a sub might help ya.
Although, I don't understand your problem with tube pre's, or pre's with more than 1 tube per se. Why's that? I would think as long as the preamp sounds like what you want, why would it matter to you?
There's good sound to be had with some of the pre's recommended above. Best at that price however is the $1200 Cary piece! YOu might be able to find a used one, but I doubt it.
Try a used Musical Fidelity A3cr, available near your price range. This preamp has beaten several other well-respected (and much more expensive) preamps in my system. Excellent detail, dynamics, and a very tight bass response. It has remote control as well.

Michael
Forgetting the fact I have one for sale, if you don't need to be on the common brand bandwagon, check out the Museatex Meitner Pa6i preamp. Although I believe Museatex Meitner is an unknown quantity to many, the fact their prices never go much below a certain price point probably means something to those who know the gear.
foreverhifi2000, I think it a disservice to those asking advise that you continually refer to a "lack of dynamics" or "You'll give up ultimate dynamics" when discussing passives - as if it were a given. You may have had that experience but many others of us have had the opposite experience. Yes, components must be matched carefully but the rewards in doing so are excellent. It is fair to discuss passives in that light. To present a lack of anything regarding a passive as a given, is just wrong because it just ain't true.

Larry does not mention his amp but, depending on it, I'd wager that one of the smaller Bents would provide as good or better performance than several of the other preamps listed here.
Audible Illusions L-1 preamp. You want beat it for the price. They ended up at about $2195 new before the L-2 came out and now sell for around $700 used. It is an all around great performer. Very transparent and neutral for a tube preamp. You can change the sound of this unit with different tubes. It seems to be more effected than most by tube brands. Lot of folks overlook this pre sadly.
It is as transparent as the TLC but delivers a more dynamic sound.