Help and opinions needed on pre-amp situation

@veerossi  I’m a big fan of PS Audio as a company, and have really enjoyed my BHK preamp.  My preamp, DAC, phono pre, and power amp are all PS Audio.  I really like the sound of my system.

Having said that, the BHK is a hybrid preamp with a tube input stage and a solid state output stage.  Personally, I don’t like the sound of the stock tubes and use Tunsgram 7dj8 NOS tubes in the BHK preamp and BHK250 power amp instead.

I used the PS Audio trial period when buying the DSD DAC and Stellar phone pre, and I purchased the BHK preamp and BHK250 power amp used.  Both out of warranty.  About 6 month later, the left channel went out in the BHK pre amp.  I sent it in for repair.  PS Audio repaired it for free and shipped it back on their dime.  I’ve had no issues since.  

I tried using just the DSD DAC with the BHK250 since the DAC has a volume control.  The sound was kinda flat and lifeless.  In my case, there is a huge difference in SQ with and without the BHK preamp.       

Simplest answer is yes, you need a tube preamp, especially if you're going to keep those Class D Amps. Try, borrow, whatever, but see for yourself.

In my experience, there is no definitive answer, as I've had some amps that work as well or better using my the volume control from my Weiss DAC vs. using a preamp.  That was the case when I had a Music Reference RM9 MK2 amp.... but when I changed to Quicksilver KT Mono's, I found I preferred having a preamp vs. using the Weiss DAC as my volume control.

The only constructive suggestion I can offer, is Yes to a pre-amp. I like the versatility of having a pre in the system. I listen to mostly vinyl and CD:  jazz, classical, avant-garde, experimental, and 70's "hippie" country rock, along with swing/ big band.... did I forget polka? I use streaming to audition music. I have three systems, all vintage, in my home.  One system is a Pioneer integrated, my low watt system. If I step into the 21st century it will be here. I do like the "English" sound, warmer and maybe a little more full, not so brilliant on the high end. And since I am on a (working) retiree's budget it might be one of the newer British integrated amps going in here, with reservations..  But yes, a pre will be nice to have, I think. Good luck

Quick and easy answer: yes.  You absolutely need a separate preamp from your streamer / DAC / preamp unit.  You will hear a significant improvement.  The next step, if possible, separate the DAC from your streamer at some point.  Happy listening.