You may be right about the Primaluna - I haven't used NOS tubes yet, so it may be all you need with whatever reference amp you end up with. I've told by many that the the preamp selection will influence the sound a lot... The Herron was recommended to me numerous times by a trusted dealer who I value his opinion. He has never steered me wrong in the past. Unfortunately, his store is a plane ride away and haven't been able to demo it yet. I also tend to like to buy things made in the USA - to support local manufacturers and in case of a problem with the unit down the road, they are a simple phone call away. That can't be underestimated, especially when you are talking about shipping a 100+ amp around the country vs across the world. VAC, Zesto, Herron, VPI, etc. are all companies I'd be happy to own and support. Sonus Faber was the exception :)