Next step: tube pre or tube power amp?

I agree with John that the cost of preamp tubes could be more expensive than the cost of power amp tubes. My experience has been that there are some really excellent current production power amp tubes, whereas current production small signal tubes are not nearly as good, therefore requiring NOS small signal tubes for a component to sound its best.

I still disagree that a tube preamp is the best way to start to get tube sound. IMO, it's a compromise that only gets you half way there.

I will have to also agree with Tvad's post;It has been my experience that going the pre amp route will only give you a peek into the tube world.
If you really want the whole experience I would go with tube
power amps(s);as far as the last part of your question of power with 91 db speakers I would think you would not need massive amounts of power however; I think the answer to this question is more of a personal choice; remember you may not keep those speakers forever and having a higher powered amp may give you more options when the time comes.

Hi Folks,

thanks again for all your feedback and I know the world of tubes is both complex and opinionated. I'm a guitarist and a tube snob when it comes to guitar tone, so I assume I'd also prefer tube sound in my listening. For guitar, there is simply no comparison.

But, budget remains the primary constraint and I'll be easing my way in. My primary source is hard drive, so a good DAC will be key. I'm also going to look into integrated tube amps as an alternative. Some of the Jolidas get good reviews as does the new Peachtree Nova. I don't think I'll have the budget for full tube separates at this point, so this may ne a good next step.

Also, I'm fortunate to live in Denver, so I'll be at RMAF next month and should get tons of good info then.

Check out the used Mesa Baron just listed for sale.

No affiliation with the seller.

You could always try a nice tube integrated. That will allow you to see if you like the tube sound.

I am currently using a will vincent modded dynaco st70 and classe dr6 preamp (said to be somewhat tubelike) and love the combo.

I also have a bryston 3b st amp, but I prefer the soundstage and musicality the dynaco provides.

I did not like my dynaco much with a set of inexpensive el 34 tubes but after a switch to genelex kt66 repops it sounds great.( It is fun to tube roll and change the sound of your gear)

If you go amp or preamp I would go amp first with a kt88, or 6550 based power tube. Those tubes will give you a hint of the tube sound without being too "warm".