For a simple 2-ch. SS pre, I like the Classe' CP-60. Very neutral and a low noise floor with outboard power supply & balanced ins/out (worthwhile option if you are dealing with long cable runs under your crawl space). Or you might look at the Bryston BP-25. It can be had for a bit less, but has nearly identical features (including the balanced ins/out & outboard power supply). Both companies have newer variants available, but that doesn't always translate to "better" (YMMV there). Of course if you have the means, the classic Levinson 380S will not disappoint either.
