tubey/smoot/colored sounding vocal on a budget

[jazmanning]

Hey,
Im looking to get a real smooth/slightly distorted tubey sounding vocal on a budget.
Eg.
Peter Gabriels "UP" Album
Seal....

(Dont worry I know seals voice would help)

I will be buying a Metric Halo Uln2 but need advice when it come to mic/preamp/compressor. I want a real colored sounding vocal.
Am I better to buy an expensive mic and use the uln2 pre's?
Or buy an expensive pre and use a middle range mic?
Im looking at spending around $2000 all up on a mic and pre. or maybe a compressor if it helps.