With your budget and goal of adding a tube preamp, start with upgrading to a quality tube preamp and a solid power amp (e.g., Audio Research, PrimaLuna, or McIntosh). Your VR-2s are good, but upgrading speakers like Vandersteen or Harbeth could bring a major improvement. A modern turntable (e.g., Technics SL-1200G or Rega P8) with a quality cartridge and phono stage would refine your vinyl experience. Don’t overlook room treatment and power conditioning for an extra level of refinement
Should speakers be upgraded before preamp and amplifiers?
On a two year plan to upgrade my system. Wanting opinions on what to do first, looking to spend $10-15k, listening room 14x 30 x 8. Currently have Von Schweikert VR-2 speakers Sansui 9090db receiver Pioneer PL-a35 turntable. Would like to try a system with tube preamp. Thanks