By way of usual audiophile nonsense, I once had my VAC Master tube preamp ($30K) hooked up to a NAD M22 (nCore class D). It sounded great! Much MUCH better than with matching M12 digital preamp, which was comparatively awful. I even considered sticking with this combo for a while (in my second system), or upgrading to the M23 (Eigentakt). However, in the end - yes, I still prefer either a really good SS class AB (Phison) or tube amp (VAC), versus the class D. But that little NAD M22 was a hell of pleasant surprise, and it’s super for the money (my other amps are much more expensive). However, I think it really benefits from a tube pre to round out its sound for best 2ch enjoyment. Yes, it is "drier" in comparison to really good traditional amps.
Tube Pre/ Class D Amp - Who has done it?
Open forum for those who have actually tried this. Really curious to know who has been happy, or maybe unhappy, with a tube preamp driving a Class D amplifier?
Of course, tube pre with a solid state amp is a classic pairing for hard to drive speakers, especially ESL's. This is a little different. I'm really curious to know what pres and Class D amps have had great synergy.