Preamp help needed - max $ 2500

Without knowing a whole lot more about your system and musical tastes. Based on what you ahve asked for I would recommend a used tubed pre-amp from conrad johnson either a premier 14 or 17ls1.

I have tried several both SS and tubed and the most accurate/natural-sounding by far is the Placette Active. You can pick one up for that price used if you are a bit patient. 10audio has reviews.

They like the Dodd battery-powered tube premp in the tube preamp category. It looks like one I would like as well.

I took a look at some of your old posts and saw you considering Bryston or Krell. If I had those amps, I may want something more mellow on teh preamp. That is why folks need to know the rest of you srystem.

I second Jerrym303's comments especially if you veered off this amp course and purchased something other than Bryston or Krell.

Joule Electra LA-100 MkIII can usually be found here used for under $2000.

I agree with the tube preamp recommendations above. Also worth considering used in that price range are the McIntosh C2200 and the Rogue 99 Magnum.