Tube Amp or Tube Pre Amp

I'm using a BAT VK-80 Tube Preamp with a CODA #8 solid state amp. I considered getting an all-Tube Amp but decided against it. The downside is higher power tube amps are not cheap. Also consider they get very hot and have expensive power tubes used in them. With this being said my decision would be highly dependent on the types of speakers I would be using. I'm very happy with the preamp/amp combo I'm using now but it's possible that could change.

What is your budget for a tube preamp or amp? 

go all the way - Tube Amp with tube preamp

I would try a tube integrated amp.  An integrated amp is often not that much more than a power amp.  With some amps, the integrated amp is essentially a power amp with input jacks, selector knob and a volume control.

There is nothing like the sound of a GOOD tube preamp. When I replaced my Shiit Freya with a Rogue RP-9 the system was so quiet, and the sound was so ‘sweet’; I could relax into the music, there was no going back. At that time, I had McIntosh MC252 power amps; now the RP-9 is mated to a Rogue ST-100 (Dark) power amplifier (KT120s output tubes), and the sweetness is still there. It is my favorite playback combination driving vintage Warfedale E70s (15” woofer, 1” Mylar tweeter, 5.25” midrange). I have yet to explore the differences between output tubes, like the 300B, EL34, 845, etc. but a good tubed preamp has been my gateway to a smooth sound, holographic sound stage, and generally enjoyable listening. I would start with a really good tubed preamp (don’t skimp) and go from there.