@twilightround - I'm in agreement with those who suggest a measured, simple approach. If you want to get the most out of Tidal, you have a couple of options. You don't mention your budget, so I won't suggest gear (I wouldn't, anyway; each situation is unique and you're the one and only determinant of what's good) - but my approach (after trying some integrated products) is to go with separates so that I have more choice; in your case I'd advise getting the best streamer (for you) and then find a DAC that fits your system and budget - and don't let "perfect" be the enemy of a system that you'll enjoy. I find that I don't really need a lot from the streamer, and I'd rather not be bound by a streamer/DAC combo - especially since DACs seem to be constantly improving (as is their price:performance ratio). I listen to Qobuz (AFAIK there's only one MQA file in all of Qobuz - but it sounds fine on my system) via Roon, and (even though I think Roon has only achieved about 65% of what they could do with their software) it feels like a seamless input.
About MQA (presented as an economic streaming alternative (some might say that it's no longer valid given current broadband, but maybe they're forgetting that the vast majority of the world can't afford or doesn't have access to it) as well as a way to support a type of authentication), the streamer doesn't necessarily have to play a part, as you can pass it straight through to your DAC. Unless you're experiencing negative symptoms (redundant?), I don't think there's a need to worry about extra devices beyond those two. I'd suggest that you avoid wifi/BT links unless absolutely necessary (and if you absolutely need BT, go for gear with the latest audio standards).
Work with companies that allow returns (30-60 day trials), and since you're partial to tubes you might want to run some DDG searches for tube-like DACs. And consider the qualities you like the most re: detail (and in what ranges), staging and warmth/musicality.
Re: DAC/Preamp, the ideal would be that your system is able to work beautifully with the DAC's analog output. I like simplicity, so in my case I'd just try other DACs until I get a match (but I'm also using a SS system that has lots of flexibility, so that's much less of an issue for me).
Best of luck with this - and I hope it's the "luck" that brings even more out of your system.