I believe the first choice is are you one who prefers new gear or carefully selecting used gear with solid resale value? The idea of new gear sounds lovely but I get fueled by getting a deal along with amazing sound so I choose used. This has lead me to Audio Research. I started with tube amps(Classic 120s)and a SS preamp LS3B. This kept me happy for a couple years and then went to the LS26 preamp which is a hybrid tube preamp. It was a significant upgrade. A couple months later I had an opportunity on a nice deal for a REF 3 preamp and that made me a believer in the preamp is more important. That was an even more impressive leap in SQ. Around this same time another opportunity came along for a REF 150 2-channel amp. I went back and forth with my Classic 120s. At first I wasn't sure but after a couple weeks the REF 150 continued to shine and the aesthetics are much better, so it stays. ARC also has integrated pieces which I haven't ever heard. I like their gear, their sound and the resale value. If you buy smart you can pretty much get your money back if you want to try something else. I have been tempted to try something like the Raven as Chuck recommended or the Primaluna that Uncle Kev at Upscale Audio is always ranting about, but haven't yet. Bottom line I think you will love tubes, just be patient and enjoy the ride.
Desire to try tubes
So I am new to this have no audio contacts, and low budget it seems based on reading forum. I inherited my brothers Heresy I’s (and LP /CD collection) two years ago and started my journey. First bought a Rega P3 and Rega Fono stage running with existing 20 yo Denon 5.1. Then upgraded the Hereseys from Crites with crossovers and new tweeters (46 yo units). Months later after research and savings bought Stellar GCD and Stellar S 300 amp along with Syzygy SLF 870 sub from Underwoodwally. Nice! Next Marantz 6006 CD as transport and Underwood Emerald Physics and Core Power gold power cords and speaker cables. As able Audio Quest entry connects for all. Each move improved sound. Added a Bluesound node 2i as well only listening to Pandora though. I have no reference to options as I’ve only owned Hereseys and never heard a tube amp in a home and am very curious if a tube pre-amp would be a big plus? If I tried one could muster up to 5k. Just looking for the best sound quality I can afford.
Room is 14.6 x 14.10 x sloped ceiling 8-13’ with 5’ flat section at 13.
Room is 14.6 x 14.10 x sloped ceiling 8-13’ with 5’ flat section at 13.