I'd rule out the B&K ST140 for 4 Ohm load. The McCormack's higher in-put impedance would probably make it the most compatible of the candidates for the usually high out-put impedances of most tube pre-amps, just be mindfull of the tube pre's volume control/voltage out-put and the sensitivity of the McCormack. While the Adcom and the McCormack sound different they both fullfill your sonic criteria.