The only model I can find the age of is the 12.1 which apparently came out in 2005. Generally speaking each newer iteration is thought to offer some level of improvement, but of course opinion comes in here so YMMV. As far as matching with a tube preamplifier, that would primarily depend upon the input impedance of the power amp which I do not see listed in the specs given on their website. I would suggest contacting the company directly for more details and the answers to your specific questions.