Ssing: I've usually used a tube front end and a SS amp combo for years. I trade my equipment off once a year or so (like most of us I suppose)and I'm turning over my AR LS-3 and replacing with my 5th Conrad Johnson tube preamp. The LS is incredibly fast and transparent and one of the most neutural ss preamps I've ever had and like it a lot. But the CJs' seem to breathe life into my system like no other tube preamp I've heard under $2000, and believe me, I've had many. I typically use a class "A" ss power amp because they just seem to get the phase and harmonics right while retaining a lot of air and 3-D space. While I can certainly get this with a tube amp, it has been my experience that while I get a nice richness in the bass, I can't get the control, bottom end punch or ultra low frequencies I require without re-mortgaging my house to buy a new high powered tube amp, or paying $500(or more)to retube a used one. Don't forget about interconnects too. As I'm sure your're aware, a great cable can really open up a system, just as a lousy one can turn great components from Hi-fidelity to walkie-talkie. Morbius
