Preamp suggestions-upgrading from C-J PV10A


Hi. Upgrading my preamp-need suggestions. I have heard the Classe preamps thrown out there as a possible good choice. Other suggestions would be appreciated.

I am thinking about upgrading my C-J PV10A preamp-I have it currently mated to a C-J MF-2200 SS amp, VSA VR-2000's, and Arcam CD73T. I was thinking that I may want to go with tubes still, but just look for a better design. I have A/B'd the PV10A against some SS preamps (nothing special) and it really wasn't much better (the amp, OTOH, is very good). Any suggestions of a very nice preamp I could get used for $500-800? My current setup is a nice mix of lush vocals and accurate, deep-enough bass. The SS preamps I have tried were 95% as good on vocals, but a little heavy in the bass-I was thinking that by upgrading the PV10A, I should be able to improve upon my vocal performance, yet retain the same accurate, not-heavy bass. My speakers are pretty heavy in the low-end anyway (down to 26hz).

I listen mostly to Classical jazz, also Electronic (ambient, house, trance), some vocals and classical music.
dawgcatching
I had a 10a for a couple of years (mated to a mccormack ss amp) and really liked its lushness, especially on vocals. Wanted a built in phone stage (my 10a didn't have one) and went with a audible illusions 2d (which I picked up for 400). Had a couple of weeks to switch back a forth between the two, and other than the lush vocals of the cj, I liked tha audible illusions in every respect--tight bass, extended highs, better snap to the music. With you budget you could get a ai 3a.
Thanks for the suggestions so far!

Another thing-the PV10a maybe a little to musical paired to the MF-2200, which is known as pretty musical for a SS amp. I think I may want something more analytical, so a good SS preamp wouldn't be out of the question either.

What about a Cary SLP-88? I see those have been closed out and are going for $1100 new or $800 used. How is the Cary sound-I know lots of people use Cary, but have never heard their stuff.
Cary SLP-98 is just amazing.I wanted one myself but for 2400 used,simply couldn't afford it.Audio research LS3-B is in my system and as Raquel said is fantastic,but the last one I 've seen here went for 950$.
Good luck
George
If your speakers are heavy in the bass, a tubed preamp could make it worst IMO. I would try a Passive preamp (Axiom, Bent, etc..) where pitch and definition will help keeping your speakers in control.

Hope this helps

Fernando
You might want to consider the AES/ AE-1 I am selling here for $550. Musical in every way. I have never seen one for sale here except mine.