How much do I need to spend to get a preamp that sounds better than no preamp?

@georgehifi 
Sorry, buddy. I don't drink. I never have. Looks like you're just making nonsense up again. 

Sorry, I thought the others that mentioned it knew something I didn't. 

Cheers George

@georgehifi 
No big thing. 

As you probably already know, there are so many variables that are factored into each sound system that trying to nail down one preamp for your use can only be determined by testing several in your own environment.  Sound is so dependent on amplification, speaker system selections and placement, room acoustics, etc.  I have always purchased equipment based on reviews.  I have had inexpensive preamps (under a grand) installed that sounded good and had others costing upward of several grand sound poor or not to my liking.  Go figure.  Part of the enjoyment in my eyes of always seeking that best sound.  Good luck with your search and when you find one, keep it and enjoy it for a life time.....

@csmgolf "Clearly the answer is no, he @georgehifi is not man enough."
You're right, Cris.  He answered the question clearly.  All he needed to say was that I was mistaken.  Seems as easy as falling off a log, and yet...

Did you notice how he got so flustered he quotes me as responding with a statement I made PRIOR to his fuser question?  He didn't know whether to scratch his watch or wind his butt.
On the positive, he seems to have finally turned into a civilized person here instead of routinely attacking everyone in front of him.  Who knows if it will last, but let's hope, as he's actually an obviously intelligent guy, and the Lightspeed Attenuator a worthwhile technology