$300 used preamp to match my rotel?


I bought a Rotel RB980BX power amp and now I'm shopping for a used preamp for $300 or less that would work well with it. I suppose Rotel is the obvious choice, but thought I'd check in to see other suggestions. I run two channel stereo for audio and AV signals. My sources are: cd player, dvd player, wireless itunes audio, TV. Obviously I can wire the video outside of the preamp. Some things I've considered:

-- used rotel pre
-- used rotel pro logic surround unit. These are very inexpensive, can run a sub one day and offer video. Any thoughts as to their 2 channel quality?
-- used tube or other brand pre.

I'll be running them through some DIY 2 way speakers.

thanks

Steve
stevecuss
I'd look for a RC-955. I doudt the Rotel AV pre will come close to the 955's sound quality.
I posted in your other pro-logic thread but a Rotel RC-1070 is nice and in your budget. Also - I'd look at the B&K preamps (eg pt3).
Thanks guys - I really appreciate all these suggestions. I have limited knowledge good brands, so this helps in my research.

I've seen that rotel 1070 on the agon classifieds - mighty tempting at that price.

Steve
Hi Folks,

just an update on where I've temporarily landed.

A local guy was selling a Rotel RSP-960AX surround processor/preamp on craigslist, so I bought it for $50. I hooked it up to the Rotel power amp and the combination clearly outshines the old Denon receiver I have. Much more clarity and bass response out of my Boston speakers.

Next step: finish my DIY speaker project, then possibly buy a used cd player instead of playing cds on my sony dvd carosel.

Meanwhile, I'll enjoy this very budget setup and slowly shop for a dedicated 2 channel preamp

thanks everyone for advice and brand suggestions. Long term, I'm looking at: rotel, naim, creek, acurus and some tube pres. No rush now that I have a superior system to my current one.

Steve
Go with a used Rotel pre and that way you'll have a matched set for when you decide to upgrade both pre and power.