Another preamp to look for would be a NuForce P8, I just got one myself and love it. The reviews on it are great if you want to look it up and read them. It has an awesome midrange for a solid state unit(much better than most SS units I have heard) much like that of tube gear but has a very tight and detailed bass and treble section that is very good. They do take a while to break in as mine was nearly new when I got it form audiogon so it took a while to get the best out of it but I think it is a very good option for someone looking for a great two channel preamp and does not have thousands to spend.