I think I recall one of the designers at PS Audio saying that a preamp actually helps in sound reproduction.
In any case, I would ask Ayre (you might have to call a couple of times, as they are sometimes slow to respond).
I probably should try to use my Codex w/o preamp and see if it makes a difference, but I think I will keep my current config. for the time being.
If you want a tube preamp, I would suggest an Atma-Sphere MP-3.
It is truly a marvelous piece of equipment.
B