Tubes Through Solid State

Czbbcl, I didn't say it can't sound good. Not sure why a different opinion threatens your own. I've done the tube/ss mix. IME people do this because it is the equipment they have, the speakers they are using are inefficient so they need the control of a SS amp, and so on. To my listening preferences, either all SS or all tubes sounds better than mixing.

Is there an analog component to your question? I'm just curious why you asked here.

I've always felt this kind of mix was a temporary fix for another problem.

Yeah, if you want the sound of tubes, use tubes. If you want the sound of SS, use SS. Mixing them gives you some of the qualities of both, but it does not give you the best of both as many claim.

Czbbcl,

the combination of tubes and ss can be very satisfying so not sure what you mean about a temporary fix.

A nice way of saying "you're not thinking correctly." But I do appreciate your politeness about it.

Ah, so a difference of opinion really does bunch your panties.
I don't really care who builds what and how. I don't like mixing, I have tried it, it is not for me. And I note that I'm not the only poster on this thread who feels the same way.

LOL! Actually, Inna, I've been on a marguarita kick for about 6 months. I've lost another 6 lbs since I quit drinking beer. Single malts, now that's just a couple pieces of ice.

Sm2727,

I'm not sure what you are trying to accomplish. Can you describe something about the sound that isn't sitting well with your ears?

"Tubify" can mean many things, but to me it is implying that the sound is fatiguing and edgy right now. Just a guess. Anyway, the only one who is going to be able to decide what sounds right is you. Try to buy used gear and experiment.

Another thought. You like Pass amps, what about their preamps and phonostages?