This is a good set up. I once owned a MV60se and an LS172 Pre. Ultimately I found the combination, while very smooth, ultimately boring. I sold both, but probably would have been very happy with a solid state Pre. For me tubes are great, but in moderation. I now have a tubed amp, a passive line stage, and SS cd, tuner, and phono Pre. My tuner, an MD 105, can be had with tubes but I declined. Besides if i wanted a tubed tuner I would look for an MR 71 !