best preamp under 4000 to match 4b sst

I'm currently using an Audio Horizons TP 2.0n (earlier version of the 2.1n)with a 4BSSTc series using balanced interconnects and it is a stellar combination.Coherent over the entire spectrum and between musical passages it is the blackest of black.Audio Research pre amps also complement Bryston.

The BAT VK42se is a fantastic match as well and I have seen a couple within your budget.The performance vs. the BP-25 ( I haven't tried a BP-26) favored the BAT.

I have heard the bp 26 but was hoping to have something with a little more warmth. thus the reason why i was looking at simaudio p5.3

A tube preamp using 6922, 12AU7 or 6SN7 tubes can be "warmed up" by installing warm sounding tubes.

Lamm LL2 Deluxe, Audio Horizons TP 2.1, First Sound Presence Deluxe II all qualify. I'm not familiar with the BAT.

I'd avoid tube preamps based on 6H30 tubes. Not because they aren't excellent, but because you can't "warm them up" by rolling tubes.

If you want warmth I suggest a nice tube preamp. Here are two great choices;

Cary SLP98 - Great sounding pre with loads of warmth and body

Conrad Johnson LS16 - keep an eye out for a used one. This one is so warm and wonderful.