You need to get a flat frequency response in your room before chasing the tone and timber. Once you get a flat frequency response you will be able to really hear the difference a component change can make. I recommend getting a Paradigm PW Link or Martin Logan Unison preamp with ARC. It comes with a mic, takes measurements and uses DSP to help your gear match the room. They are only $300 on sale and can be piggy backed to any pre or amp you buy in the future. See an example of a flat frequency response posted in my virtual system.
Van Alstine pre-amplifiers
Recently read a post regarding Van Alstine tube based pre-amplifiers.
Sounds interesting . One of the reviewers ( on the AVA website ) suggested the pre-amplifier did not add richness to the tone of the music and suggested the soundstage was not enlarged. Otherwise a rave review.
Has anyone have personal experience with these tube based pre-amplifers?
My goal is to add tonal richness and improve timbre. Plan to run into a Leben amplifier.
Thanks