Do preamps have a material affect on high level sources?

oldtech0
I have two preamps.  One cost a pretty penny.  If I go direct I am bypassing 6 tubes in the preamp.  That will definitely color one"s sound. How could it not?
It just sound so much "cleaner" going direct to monos.

Yet there are those with vested interest in these $$$$ active preamps, in manufacturing, distribution or in retail to try to keep them alive and kicking, they will succumb one day, just like the poor old dinosaurs did.

Cheers George

Shoulda sold that video store when I had a chance.

@georgehifi

Then it's lucky I have some T-Rex Albums!

And some Dinosaur Jnr.

I prefer Mastadon on my dinosaurs.