Opportunity to buy the best Preamp... but which?

Hello, I'd add the gorgeous McIntosh C1000C to your list. It consists of a "control box" (9k) and your choice of a solid state or tube preamplifier section (8k each). It can be used with both tubed and solid state sections together to make a three box system(total $27k), which can be switched on-the-fly between tube or solid state per remote control, or for tubes only (total $17k). It's sapposed to be pretty neutral sounding... I've thought about the tubed version only for my system in another year or so..., but the cost!! Also, I've talked to BAT about the REX. It's an 18 tube preamp and goes for $18k. It looks like the price for reference preamps are skyrocketing in cost. I don't know how much you want to spend, but I'd give these two a listen.

I second The Vac Renaissance Signature Mk II, I have owned about 5 or 6 top of the line tube pre's in the last 20 years and nothing comes close to this especially if you have a T.T. the phono stage is second to none. Can't help with SS although I would love to try the Dart.

What about Supratek Grange?

Hey Hooper! I thought you had a Coinnoisseur?

i heard a preamp at ces that i would purchase before i would consider any of the aforementioned preamps. however, it is the classic tube sound, euphonic and lush.uspect that while i like it very few who would read my post would concur with me.

anyay, here it is: navison special edition mk 1, at $4000. the designers are from north vietnam, but they have a california office. they exhibited at the st. tropez.

there is a possibility i may review this product.