Suggestions for someone who wants to get in tubes

tcco,
Yes, you can run your 2-ch sources into the pre, and run the receiver L/R preouts into it also. If the pre doesn't have an HT bypass/unity gain function simply calibrate the HT with the pre's volume control at a known position, and return it to that position whenever watching HT.

ANy speaker suggerions? sub $1000 bookeshelf that are good for tubes?

Cayin TA-30...just bought one and love it. Had it less than a week and like it more every time I turn it on. I bought it with all the upgrades available (since it was so inexpensive to begin with) and if I had to pay more, I would still consider it a bargain. Added some halo tube dampers and it got better still...great value / sound / would be easy to sell if you didn't like it...although I can't imagine anyone with ears who wouldn't

Pauly has it right. The tube pre and ss amp is BS. There is nothing like an all tube system in my opinion. Of course your speakers have to be oriented towards tubes, but when they are, heaven! I have owned or auditioned some of the best ss amps and just dont get it I guess. People love to knock tubes, but those in the know use nothing else. Its all about the sound the gestalt of music, if you will, that matters. Measurements are meaningless. Only how it sounds to you matters.