??? Anyone Running Active Speakers Driven By A Tube PreAmp ???

I use precisely such a system: my active speakers are the Linkwitz LX521.4. Each of the five cones has its own class-D amplifier (Hypex N-core) per channel (10 amps total!), which are fed from an active cascade crossover, ensuring that each driver gets only that frequency window, where its respective response is more or less flat. The signal comes from a Supratek Grange preamp/phono stage by means of XLR balanced connections. My DAC (MSB) feeds into the preamp first. I tried a direct connection (which is the recommended way by Linkwitz for digital-only listeners), but I found the sound - while actually louder than coming from the pre - flatter and less nuanced. I assume that the latter effect comes from the tubes (Takatsuki 300B), while the Hypex amps drive the 4 subs with 250A each for gut-tingling bass. So, yes: I think I am getting the best of two worlds here. Every visitor to my audio lounge loves the sound and stage presentation. You can see my system here: https://linkwitz.store/blog/2023/01/20/new-linkwitz-lounge-in-fremont-ca/

@reimarc 

Just curious if you're using PowerBoxes, or custom amplification?

Three tube preamplifiers were used with ATC 40A and ATC 50A transducers:  Manley Jumbo Shrimp, Manley Neo Classic 300B and De Havilland Mercury (heavily modified) were used for years in my system.  Each time I felt the tube design could not keep up with the speed of active speakers.  There was a smearing I could not resolve.

First switched out to Sugden LA-4 class A.  That gave the speed needed.  Then to Luxman C900u preamp for the complete sound.  Your mileage may vary.  Best success.  Cheers 

@freediver 

We design and manufacture active speaker systems. Here is a very short version of my experience related to your question. First, there are several active speaker configuration. Assuming your setup requires the use of a preamp, meaning your source drives a preamp which drives active crossovers which in turn drives the amplifiers then yes any preamp with a particular flavor will influence the overall sound of the system. With our active speakers the user can choose practically any amplifiers (tube or SS) or preamplifier (tube or SS) they like. We have set up dozens of different configuration. The preamp you choose will influence the overall sound just like any other system. A warm mushy preamp will make the system sound that way. I good tube preamp with a bit of warmth and a 3D presentation will influence the system to that end, assuming the rest of the system is capable.

BTW, We typically use 300B tube amps to drive our line arrays and a tube preamp in our showroom. We have several tube and SS amps to use for audition depending on what is requested. All the combinations do sound different.

Some excellent info provided,thanks very much..