Balanced/Differential tube preamplifier recommendation?

Have you considered a used BAT preamp.  I've been very happy with my VK-3IX, so much so I'm looking to move up the line.  And yes, it does have remote capability.  I bought mine used without a remote but found a Logitech Harmony works just fine.

You might find an Allnic L3000 in that price range. Allnic is holographic transformer balanced and has a remote

Everyone promotes what they have and each piece that's been spoken about in this thread is a good option albeit some won't come in under $2K. Stretch a bit and go for a used (if u can find one) Aesthetix Calypso. I use a Calypso Sig & it's truly a spectacular piece. Just my opinion 

I have had a few preamps that are within your price range (new or used):

• Topping pre90 (a PIA to use and does not work well GAIN wise with a lot of amps)
• Benchmark LA4 (no euphoric sound with this one)
• Holo Serene (like the LA4 but a touch warmer)
• Schitt Freya+ (tubes, low, cost. but not as clean sounding as I like)
• BAT VK-42SE
• Bryston BP-20
• CODA 07x (tubey sound and a lower model CODA pre maybe something to consider)

The LA4 and Serene are what I chose over all of the above. If you want a tubey sound the CODA 07x can be found for $4k and the model lower in the range around $2k.

I would recommend the Holo Serene to you, especially for someone who has owned the Topping pre90. Read the review that compares it to the LA4. There is a used one on USAM for $2.5K.

The BAT is also pretty good for something with a warm sound. I preferred it over the Freya+.

IMO stick with balanced. Have had both. Somehow balanced eliminates some types od electrical noise that isn't noticeable using single ended but moves out of the way with balanced. True balanced BAT equipment seemed more immediate to me.