Solid State Preamp Under $8000


I generally buy a piece of equipment that has been out for about four years and keep it for about 5 to 6 years. In this manner I get the fun of buying a new (used) piece of equipment every year and not paying retail prices. 

I have had my Esoteric C-03 preamp for 5 years and am considering replacing it with a newer model.  I have liked this unit a lot.  It sounds great and is a joy to use.  Why replace it then?

Well if there is something out there used for $8000 or less used that will give even greater transparency than the C-03, I would be a buyer. In general, the voicing of my current set up seems spot on. 

 I would prefer a single box unit if at all possible because of limitations on rack space and interconnect length. I do not want to risk a lateral move at this level of investment.  

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

Current System: 
Feickert Firebird/ Reed 3P/ Ortofon Anna
Audio Research Reference Phono 2 SE
Esoteric C-03
Krell Evolution 302e
TAD Evolution Ones
Esoteric X-03se




teeshot
You should be able to get a used Luxman C-900 U for this price.  I don't think you'll beat it with any other SS pre-amp in this pricerange.  Absolutely great piece of gear.
Why not move up the Esoteric line-Several Esoteric C-02x just sold on this sight for less than you want to spend
Tdimier— do you own the Luxman? If so how did you choose it?

68pete:  I would love a C-02x but my post is partially out of my failure to be able to find a C-02 (not even a C-02x) for under 10k.  One sold here recently that was reduced to 10k and sold quickly. 
KARL-- good call   In my price range and is the type of unit I am looking for.  Funny I considered buying  an XP-20 years ago but a dealer had the C=03 that was so luxurious, I bought it instead..