Recommended pre-amp prices
Perhaps if you mentioned a price range?
While there is not a one for one correlation between price and quality the longer I am in this hobby the more it seems that for truly good sound, large amounts of cash help a bunch.
Spending a lot may not guarantee good sound but the converse, spending a little is highly likely to result in poor sound.
I switched to a passive pre. Biggest bang for the buck, does present a possible problem for the Vinyl lover. I do not hear the "lack of dynamics" others have mentioned in reviews. Based on reviews the Placette gets consistently good press and can be had with up to 3 inputs it's made with recognized good brand name parts and no claims of magic.
Hunting for stuff is part of the hobby as far as I'm concerned. Good luck.