The future of preamps

Ok, I see if I wanted a m-1 preamp with phono, The preamp has 18 tubes,the 12at7 tubes are for the phono,, and yes, Jmcgrogan2, the 6sn7 tubes are the ones you and pops claim to be the fat big sound of tubes!, without the phono in the preamp, I get 10 of the 6sn7 tubes, If I auditioned this preamp and liked it, bought it, etc.., I suppose I would have a similair tube sound that the both of you have with the preamps the two of you own. since I do not own not one record, or a turntable, even thou I love analog vinyl, that scenero would be stratisphere exspensive to achieve that set-up, cables, etc...I would only have a turntable that would match the quality of the preamp as well too!, man-o-man that would be exspensive, the line stage would be it for me, sorry john, I need a lottery hit to do this phono thing, LOl!

A friend has this preamp and the MA-1 amplifier. I've also placed my SET amp in this system and with either amplifier it was clear this is an excellent component. Many good attributes, transparency, minimal coloration, open with exceptional dynamic energy and quite natural sound ( most important to me). Obviously you can learn more from Ralph than me.
Charles,

I haven't read all the responses but so far, preamp seem to be holding their own. I for one will always use a preamp. A tube preamp. Regardless of the amplifier being used, I think a preamp will not only provide better sonics but also serve other purposes as well.
It is true most digital gear has the 'drive' to eliminate a preamp but to me, I have yet to hear any source direct system that sounds as good as a preamp driven system. Almost everyone I know, whether in the business or just consumers, still run preamps in their system even if only a digital or server based front end. A good digital front end, DAC and tube preamp appears to be staying around for the foreseeable future.
I have been in this industry for almost twenty years and designing tube gear for 15 years so I have been exposed to countless system combinations.
Preamps, tube or SS, will be around for a long time.

Response34,
I wish you continued sucess with your Purity Audio components, people love your various models of Line stages.
Charles,

Active preamp or bust! It is key to a well put together system!