Tube pre amp comparison ARC to VTL

If you are looking for the tube sound(warm,lush)you're not going to get it with the LS-25mkII. The LS-25mkII is more of a hybrid than a true tube preamp and will never sound warm and lush. It will however do all of the other things that you've mentioned(bigger, deeper, wider etc.) The 6h30DR's will only make it do it better, more dynamic as well but will not change the sound to warmer in the sense that you seek. I have the LS-25mkII and I'm happy with it as I like the ARC sound. It has never sounded dry and sterile to me. I've heard that analogy before from others but my question always was dry and sterile compared to what?
Again, if you are comparing it to a true tube preamp, then yes it is going to sound different but I don't know if I would characterize that difference as dry and sterile.
Finally, I would think that you would be getting a very good sound with the setup you have as ARC preamps mate very well with ARC amps particularly the VT-100mkII which was rated very good tube amp.
Just my two cents worth.

Oh and for speakers I have Vandy 3Asigs...as well

I did just buy a set 6H30 DR tubes, waiting for them to get some hours before making final judgment. But initially they seemed to warm it up just a bit. And yes, speakers are the final quest. However I want to get my front end gear right first. Mind you I don't dislike the LS25, I am just looking for everything it does plus the "liquid" midrange of the VTL.

Thank you,

No offense, but I think your amp and preamp are way ahead of your speakers.( If you still have the MLs). I know it is hard to get around to hear and try out too many speakers, but with the quality of ARC products, it is a must. The VT100 can power almost anything - even very demanding Soundlabs- and sound worlds better, imo.

I agree with Elevick regarding ARC neutrality. I have never heard an ARC preamp sound dry or sterile.

Have you tried different tubes? ARC has tried to keep this pre neutral sounding, not warm. Most ARC pre's I've played with were not overly warm sounding. To me that's a good thing.