For the past year, I have been using a BAT VK 30 preamp with a BAT VK D5 CD player that worked very well together. Before I used the BAT preamp, I was using an Adcom SS preamp. The BAT preamp opened up the soundstage quite a bit when compared to the SS Adcom.
A couple of months ago, a friend allowed me to audition his '60's vintage McIntosh 240 tubed amp as part of my system, and I found I really enjoy the sound of a tubed amp.
I have decided to go with tubes all the way. I sold my Pass amp yesterday and have made an offer for a BAT VK 60 amp (tubed). I guess my point is, you may find once you start using tubed components, you may wind up with more than one piece.