I don't have tape in-outs in my preamp either. I run Nakamichi RX202 tape deck in loop with TT -> Phono -> TD always in 'record' engaged providing extra gain stage. I found it sounding superior than just phonostage alone. Achieving maximum possible performance at ANY volume level desired -- piece of cake. Besides, I don't have to reconnect it back when I want to record some high valued album on metal biased tape. The recording on metal biased tape is very close to vinyl, much closer than CD.
Tape deck hook up to integrated amp.
This might sound stupid but many integrated amps these days don't have a separate tape in/rec out feature. If all I want to do is play tapes, can I connect the tape deck into any input on the amp? Seems like I should be able to but I've only ever seen separate inputs for tape on amps. Thanks.