Where to insert tubes while running a Luxman SS integrated


I've recently upgraded my integrated amplifier from a Cambridge CXA81 to a Luxman l-507uxii.  The Cambridge is definitely not bad for its price, but the Luxman is a different animal and is making me want to upgrade everything else in my system.  Which brings me to my point of discussion: I'd like to insert tubes somewhere in my system to get some additional warmth and a more holographic soundstage.  Would adding a tube preamp and running the Luxman as only a power amp be best to do this, or would it be better to get a tube dac for my digital, and separately, a tube phono stage for my vinyl?

syr1990

Showing 1 response by erik_squires

 A lot of the Luxman magic seems to be in the pre.  I suggest try before you buy.

@wlutke  is absolutely correct, this has been my experience as well.  It's the preamp section that's so incredible in the integrateds. If anything, I'd get outboard amps and keep the pre! :D

If that's not satisfying you, you are going to end up replacing the entire integrated.