[LadyDog]

After numerous years living in the integrated amp world, I'm considering jumping back to a preamp/amp.  ?

Some general guidelines:

looking used, to get best bang for buck
budget $2,500
preference toward tubes
remote optional
not sure what amp I will end up with, but it will probably be solid state
speakers - have too many, Chesky C1, Selah Peridot, Verity Fidelio, just to name a few that may be used in the chain

So far my list entails;  Conrad 17, Cary 98sp, Joule 100,150, Blue Circle BC3, and First Sound

Since I have not kept up with things, any others out there I should add to the list?

Thanks in advance for your time.

Regards,
Jeff

[Will2]

Jeff, if you're looking for tubes with some gain I have been impressed with what Bill at Response Audio offers.  I can't disagree with you when it comes to bang-for-the-buck with used items, but you can get close to that with some of his specials - check them out here http://www.bellaextreme.com/specials.htm

[Big Red Machine]

I've had more amps than preamps in the last 4 years but the best preamps in my system were the Response Bella, Dodd battery we auditioned for one day, and most recently I have been stricken with the BAT stuff (quiet, responsive to tube rolling, built like a tank).  All can be had easily undeer $2k.

[revrob]

I picked up a used Joule LA-150 MKII that had been upgraded from a LA-200 and it was the best $1,500 I have ever spent. I have it matched with Wyred4sound mono blocks and it is absolutely fabulous. You can't go wrong with Joule however I am sure there are other great deals out there for $2,500.

Best of luck.

Steve

[roymail]

Take a look at Niteshade Audio, and contact Blair Lamphear.  He's very knowledgeable and will accomodate whatever you need.  Not to mention his stuff is top notch.

[Larkston Zinaspic]

Scroll down to the model 11A, exactly at your price point:
http://www.sasaudiolabs.com/specials.htm

Could also scope out a Lamm LL2 Deluxe used...

[K Shep]

Aesthetix Calypso

In your budget, here is an add on Audiogon with photos, there is another classified asking less with out the pretty pictures.

http://www.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatube&1281144422&/Aesthetix-Calypso-remote-contr

[lonewolfny42]

A nice Modwright.....here... 

[Eric]

Scroll down to the model 11A, exactly at your price point:
http://www.sasaudiolabs.com/specials.htm

Could also scope out a Lamm LL2 Deluxe used...

I would echo the 11A. I have one and love it

[KnowTalent]

Look for a used/demo Parasound JC 2

pure magic imo